Chiropractic Effective for TMJ Pain

Because injury to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is often quite painful, we do our best to help our Arlington, WA patients find relief as quickly and effectively as possible. In fact, Dr. Ernst will tell you that the research shows just how much chiropractic can help ease pain in the jaw.

For instance, a study published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice included 15 people with jaw pain who were managed with neck adjustments, middle-back adjustments, and trigger point therapy via dry needling. Individuals were examined prior to these therapies and at 15 days and two months post-treatment. They reported positive results such as reduced pain, greater jaw mobility, and lower disability at both follow-ups.

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

This is great news since the causes 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 grinding teeth, osteoarthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to stress.

No matter what is making your jaw ache, call Dr. Ernst now and make an appointment to come into our Arlington, WA location. We'll do our best to help you smile pain-free!

References

• 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