TMJ Pain Eased by Chiropractic

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

For example, a study published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice included 15 participants with jaw pain who were treated with neck adjustments, middle-back manipulation, and trigger point therapy via dry needling. Individuals were examined prior to these methods and at 15 days and two months post-treatment. The researchers reported positive results 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 studies involving manual and manipulative therapy for disorders such as TMJ and discovered similar results. The authors concluded that there is a "fair...level of evidence" that chiropractic care can help ease pain associated with TMJ and other upper extremity disorders.

This is great news since the origins of TMJ are largely unknown. While trauma to the jaw area can cause pain symptoms, there are other sources to consider as well, such as grinding teeth, osteoarthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to tension.

No matter what is making your jaw ache, call Dr. Covington today and make an appointment to come into our Yakima 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