TMJ Pain Eased by Chiropractic

As trauma to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is frequently quite painful, we do our best to help our West Palm Beach patients find relief as quickly and effectively as possible. In fact, Dr. Dennis will tell you that the research shows just how much chiropractic care can help ease discomfort in the TMJ.

Research Shows Chiropractic Helps With TMJ Pain and Discomfort

For instance, a 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. Patients were assessed prior to these methods and at two weeks and two months post-treatment. They reported positive results such as reduced discomfort, greater jaw movement, and lower disability at both follow-ups.

Another clinical study conducted a review of almost 800 papers involving manual and manipulative therapy for conditions such as TMJ and discovered similar findings. The authors concluded that there is a "fair...level of evidence" that chiropractic care can help ease pain associated with jaw pain and other upper extremity disorders.

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

Dr. Dennis Can Help Patients Find Comfort From TMJ Pain

No matter what is making your jaw ache, call Dr. Dennis today and make an appointment to come into our West Palm Beach practice. 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