Chiropractic Can Ease Jaw Pain Related to TMJ

As injury to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is often rather painful, we do our best to help our Parma, Middleburg Heights patients find relief as quickly and effectively as possible. In fact, Baker Chiropractic Wellness Center will tell you that the medical research shows just how much chiropractic care can help ease pain in the TMJ.

For instance, one study published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice included 15 patients with jaw pain who were treated with neck adjustments, middle-back adjustments, and trigger point therapy via dry needling. Subjects were examined prior to these therapies and at two weeks and two months post-treatment. They reported positive results such as reduced pain, greater jaw movement, and lower impairment at both follow-ups.

Another group of researchers carried out an analysis of almost 800 papers involving manual and manipulative therapy for conditions 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 triggers of TMJ are largely unknown. While injury to the jaw area can cause pain symptoms, there are other causes to consider as well, such as grinding teeth, arthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to stress.

No matter what is making your jaw ache, call Baker Chiropractic Wellness Center now and make an appointment to come into our Parma, Middleburg Heights practice. 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