TMJ Pain Relief with Chiropractic

As injury to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is often very 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 ache in the TMJ.

Research Shows Chiropractic Treatment Helps With TMJ Pain and Discomfort

For example, a study published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice involved 15 people with jaw pain who were treated with neck adjustments, middle-back manipulation, and trigger point therapy via dry needling. Subjects were assessed prior to these methods and at 15 days and two months post-treatment. The researchers reported positive outcomes such as reduced discomfort, 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 discovered similar results. They concluded that there is a "fair...level of evidence" that chiropractic care can help ease discomfort associated with jaw pain and other upper extremity disorders.

This is great news since the causes 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 bruxism, arthritis, and clenching of the jaw due to tension.

Dr. Covington Can Help Clients Find Comfort From TMJ Pain

No matter what is making your jaw ache, call Dr. Covington now and schedule an appointment to come into our Yakima practice. We'll do our best to help you smile pain-free!

Sources

• 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