Chiropractic Effective for TMJ Pain
As injury to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is usually very painful, we do our best to help our South Buffalo patients find relief as quickly and effectively as possible. In fact, Dr. Nowak will tell you that the research shows just how much chiropractic care can help ease discomfort in the jaw.
Research Supports Chiropractic Therapy Helps With TMJ Pain and Discomfort
For example, one study published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice involved 15 people with jaw pain who were managed with neck adjustments, middle-back manipulation, and trigger point therapy via dry needling. Patients were assessed prior to these methods and at 15 days and two months post-treatment. The clinicians reported positive outcomes such as reduced pain, greater jaw movement, and lower disability at both follow-ups.
Another clinical study conducted an analysis of almost 800 papers involving manual and manipulative therapy for disorders such as TMJ and discovered similar results. They 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 triggers of TMJ are largely unknown. While injury 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.
Dr. Nowak Can Help Clients Find Relief From TMJ Discomfort
No matter what is making your jaw hurt, call Dr. Nowak today and schedule an appointment to come into our South Buffalo clinic. 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