TMJ Pain Relief with Chiropractic

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

Research Proves Chiropractic Helps With TMJ Pain and Discomfort

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

Another group of researchers conducted an analysis of almost 800 studies involving manual and manipulative therapy for disorders such as TMJ and revealed similar results. The group 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 injury to the jaw or neck can cause pain symptoms, there are other sources to consider as well, such as grinding teeth, arthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to tension.

Dr. Mulholland Can Help Patients Find Comfort From TMJ Pain

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