TMJ Pain Eased by Chiropractic

As injury to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is often quite 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 medical literature shows just how much chiropractic care can help ease soreness in the jaw.

Research Shows Chiropractic Helps With TMJ Pain and Discomfort

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

Another research paper conducted a review of almost 800 papers involving manual and manipulative therapy for disorders such as TMJ and found 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 causes of TMJ are largely unknown. While injury to the jaw area can cause pain symptoms, there are other factors to consider as well, such as bruxism, osteoarthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to tension.

Dr. Covington Can Help Patients Find Relief From TMJ Pain

No matter what is making your jaw hurt, call Dr. Covington now and schedule an appointment to come into our Yakima 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