TMJ, or temporomandibular joint disorder, affects millions of people around the world. It can cause a range of symptoms, including jaw pain, headaches, neck pain, ear pain, and difficulty opening and closing the mouth. While there are several treatment options available for TMJ, many people seek natural, non-invasive approaches to managing their symptoms. That’s where upper cervical chiropractic comes in. At Keystone Specific Chiropractic Center we have worked with many clients struggling with jaw pain, headaches, and neck pain
What is Upper Cervical Specific Chiropractic?
Upper cervical chiropractic is a specialized form of chiropractic care that focuses on the top two vertebrae in the neck, known as the atlas and axis. These vertebrae are responsible for supporting the weight of the head and allowing for its movement, but misalignments in these bones can disrupt the entire spinal column and impact the entire body, including the jaw joint.
Case Studies: Upper Cervical Specific Chiropractic and TMJ
Several case studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of upper cervical chiropractic for TMJ. In one
case study published in the Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research, a 46-year-old woman with TMJ symptoms received upper cervical chiropractic care over the course of four months. After just one adjustment, the patient reported a reduction in pain and an increase in jaw mobility. Over the course of the study, her symptoms continued to improve, and she reported a 90% reduction in pain and a complete resolution of her TMJ symptoms.
Another case study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine reported on a 48-year-old woman with TMJ symptoms who received upper cervical chiropractic care over the course of six months. After just one month of care, the patient reported a 60% reduction in pain and an improvement in jaw mobility. By the end of the study, the patient reported a 90% reduction in pain and a complete resolution of her TMJ symptoms.
A third case study, published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, reported on a 22-year-old woman with TMJ symptoms who received upper cervical chiropractic care over the course of 12 weeks. After just six weeks of care, the patient reported a 75% reduction in pain and an improvement in jaw function. By the end of the study, the patient reported a complete resolution of her TMJ symptoms.
How Does Upper Cervical Chiropractic Help?
Through gentle adjustments to the atlas and axis, upper cervical chiropractors can correct misalignments that may be contributing to TMJ symptoms. This can help to reduce inflammation and tension in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, promoting natural healing and reducing pain.
One of the main benefits of upper cervical chiropractic for TMJ is its non-invasive nature. Unlike other treatment options, such as surgery or medications, upper cervical chiropractic does not involve any invasive procedures or potential side effects. Instead, it focuses on restoring proper alignment and function to the spine and nervous system, which can help the body heal itself naturally.
Another benefit of upper cervical chiropractic for TMJ is its focus on the root cause of the problem, rather than just addressing the symptoms. By correcting misalignments in the neck, upper cervical chiropractic can help to restore proper function to the nervous system, which can help to reduce inflammation and tension in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles.
It’s important to remember that each patient is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you’re considering upper cervical chiropractic for your TMJ symptoms, We’d love to have a conversation to see if you are a good fit for the office! Call or schedule your consultation here!