TMJ Pain Eased by Chiropractic

As trauma to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is often rather painful, we do our best to help our Moon Township patients find relief as quickly and effectively as possible. In fact, Dr. Spiropoulos will tell you that the research shows just how much chiropractic can help ease pain in the TMJ.

For example, a study published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice involved 15 participants with jaw pain who were managed with neck adjustments, middle-back adjustments, and trigger point therapy via dry needling. Individuals were examined prior to these methods and at 15 days and two months post-treatment. The authors reported positive outcomes such as reduced discomfort, greater jaw movement, and lower impairment at both follow-ups.

Another research study conducted a review of almost 800 papers 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 symptoms associated with TMJ 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 causes to consider as well, such as grinding teeth, arthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to tension.

No matter what is making your jaw hurt, call Dr. Spiropoulos now and make an appointment to come into our Moon Township office. 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