Since injury to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is frequently quite painful, we do our best to help our Olympia patients find relief as quickly and effectively as possible. In fact, TJ Delorie will tell you that the medical research shows just how much chiropractic can help ease pain in the jaw.
For example, a study published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice included 15 people with jaw pain who were treated with neck adjustments, middle-back manipulation, and trigger point therapy via dry needling. Subjects were assessed prior to these treatments and at two weeks and two months post-treatment. The researchers reported positive results such as reduced pain, greater jaw mobility, and lower impairment at both follow-ups.
Another group of researchers conducted an analysis of almost 800 studies involving manual and manipulative therapy for conditions such as TMJ and discovered similar findings. They concluded that there is a "fair...level of evidence" that chiropractic care can help ease discomfort 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 area can cause pain symptoms, there are other factors to consider as well, such as bruxism, osteoarthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to stress.
No matter what is making your jaw ache, call TJ Delorie now and schedule an appointment to come into our Olympia location. 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