Chiropractic Effective for TMJ Pain

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

For example, one study published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice involved 15 patients with temporomandibular disorders who were treated with neck adjustments, middle-back adjustments, and trigger point therapy via dry needling. Individuals were examined prior to these treatments and at two weeks and two months post-treatment. The authors reported positive outcomes such as reduced pain, greater jaw mobility, and lower disability at both follow-ups.

Another group of researchers carried out a review of almost 800 papers involving manual and manipulative therapy for conditions such as TMJ and revealed 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 origins of TMJ are largely unknown. While injury to the jaw or neck can cause pain symptoms, there are other sources to consider as well, such as bruxism, osteoarthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to stress.

No matter what is making your jaw hurt, call Dr. Palmer at Buffalo Chiropractic Center today and make an appointment to come into our Depew office. We'll do our best to help you smile pain-free!

Sources

• 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