As injury to the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is often quite painful, we do our best to help our Rochester Hills patients find relief as quickly and effectively as possible. In fact, Dr. Dalton will tell you that the medical literature shows just how much chiropractic care can help ease ache in the TMJ.
For example, a study published in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice included 15 patients with temporomandibular disorders who were managed with neck adjustments, middle-back adjustments, and trigger point therapy via dry needling. Patients were examined prior to these therapies and at two weeks and two months post-treatment. The authors reported positive results such as reduced discomfort, greater jaw movement, and lower disability at both follow-ups.
Another clinical study carried out an analysis of almost 800 papers involving manual and manipulative therapy for conditions such as TMJ and found similar findings. They concluded that there is a "fair...level of evidence" that chiropractic care can help ease discomfort 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 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 stress.
No matter what is making your jaw hurt, call Dr. Dalton now and schedule an appointment to come into our Rochester Hills practice. We'll do our best to help you smile pain-free!
References
Dr. Dalton
Chiropractors, often considered alternative or complementary medicine practitioners, are primary care doctors who focus on good health through proper nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle factors. The chiropractic philosophy is based on the idea that when nerves emerging from the spinal cord are compromised (known as a subluxation), the affected individual might experience pain, disability and an overall decrease in the quality of life.