TMJ Pain Relief with Chiropractic

Because trauma to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is often quite painful, we do our best to help our Parkland patients find relief as quickly and effectively as possible. In fact, Dr. Scharf will tell you that the medical research shows just how much chiropractic can help ease soreness in the jaw.

Research Proves Chiropractic Helps With TMJ Pain and Discomfort

For example, a 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. Individuals were evaluated prior to these therapies and at two weeks and two months post-treatment. The researchers reported positive results such as reduced discomfort, greater jaw movement, and lower disability at both follow-ups.

Another research paper carried out an analysis of almost 800 studies involving manual and manipulative therapy for disorders such as TMJ and found 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 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 stress.

Dr. Scharf Can Help People Find Relief From TMJ Pain

No matter what is making your jaw hurt, call Dr. Scharf now and make an appointment to come into our Parkland location. We'll do our best to help you smile pain-free!

Resources

• 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