Chiropractic Care Can Ease Jaw Pain Related to TMJ

Since injury to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is often quite painful, we do our best to help our Texarkana, Atlanta patients find relief as quickly and effectively as possible. In fact, Dr. Swanson will tell you that the studies shows just how much chiropractic care can help ease discomfort in the jaw.

Research Supports Chiropractic Therapy Helps With TMJ Pain and Discomfort

For example, one study published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice involved 15 participants with temporomandibular disorders who were managed with neck adjustments, middle-back manipulation, and trigger point therapy via dry needling. Patients were evaluated prior to these methods and at two weeks and two months post-treatment. The clinicians reported positive outcomes such as reduced discomfort, greater jaw mobility, and lower impairment at both follow-ups.

Another research study conducted an analysis of almost 800 studies involving manual and manipulative therapy for conditions such as TMJ and discovered similar findings. The group 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 injury to the jaw area can cause pain symptoms, there are other factors to consider as well, such as grinding teeth, osteoarthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to tension.

Dr. Swanson Can Help Patients Find Comfort From TMJ Discomfort

No matter what is making your jaw ache, call Dr. Swanson now and schedule an appointment to come into our Texarkana, Atlanta office. 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