Chiropractic Therapy Can Ease Jaw Pain Related to TMJ

Because trauma to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is often very painful, we do our best to help our North County St. Louis, MO patients find relief as quickly and effectively as possible. In fact, Dr. Holland will tell you that the medical literature shows just how much your chiropractor can help ease pain in the TMJ.

Research Supports Chiropractic Therapy Helps With TMJ Pain and Discomfort

For example, one study published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice involved 15 participants with TMJ pain who were treated with neck adjustments, middle-back adjustments, and trigger point therapy via dry needling. Subjects were assessed prior to these methods and at 15 days and two months post-treatment. The researchers reported positive outcomes such as reduced discomfort, greater jaw mobility, and lower disability at both follow-ups.

Another research paper conducted a review of almost 800 studies involving manual and manipulative therapy for disorders such as TMJ and discovered similar results. The group concluded that there is a "fair...level of evidence" that chiropractic care can help ease discomfort associated with TMJ and other upper extremity disorders.

This is great news since the origins of TMJ are largely unknown. While trauma to the jaw or neck can cause pain symptoms, there are other sources to consider as well, such as bruxism, arthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to tension.

Dr. Holland Can Help Patients Find Comfort From TMJ Pain

No matter what is making your jaw ache, call Dr. Holland now and make an appointment to come into our North County St. Louis, MO clinic. We'll do our best to help you smile pain-free!

Resources

• Gonzalez-Iglesias J et al. (2013, November). Mobilization with movement, thoracic spine manipulation, and dry needling for the management of temporomandibular disorder: a prospective case series. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice;29(8):586-95
• Brantingham J et al. (2013, March-April). Manipulative and multimodal therapy for upper extremity and temporomandibular disorders: a systematic review. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics;36(3):143-201
• Oral Care. WebMD. Retrieved from http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/temporomandibular-disorders-tmd on November 2, 2015