Chiropractic Can Ease Jaw Pain Related to TMJ

As trauma to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is often quite 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 literature shows just how much chiropractic care can help ease discomfort in the TMJ.

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

Another clinical study conducted a review of almost 800 studies involving manual and manipulative therapy for disorders such as TMJ and found similar results. The group concluded that there is a "fair...level of evidence" that chiropractic care can help ease symptoms associated with jaw pain 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 causes to consider as well, such as grinding teeth, osteoarthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to tension.

No matter what is making your jaw hurt, call Baker Chiropractic Wellness Center now and make an appointment to come into our Parma, Middleburg Heights location. We'll do our best to help you smile pain-free!

Studies

• 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