How can dry needling help with TMJ pain? | TMJ Chiropractor
Dry needling is a type of treatment that involves inserting thin, sterile needles into specific points in the body. It is a strategy our Geelong TMJ chiropractors often use to treat muscle pain and other conditions, including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.
TMJ disorders affect the temporomandibular joint, which is the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, clicking or popping noises, and difficulty chewing.
Dry needling is thought to help with TMJ pain by releasing muscle tension and inflammation. When the needles are inserted into the affected muscles, they can relief muscle tension and promote better muscle function. Dry needling can also help to improve blood flow to the affected area, which can also help to reduce pain and inflammation.
A study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association found that dry needling was effective in reducing pain and improving function in people with TMJ disorders. The study participants who received dry needling reported a significant decrease in pain and an improvement in their ability to chew after just four treatments.
Dry needling is a safe and effective treatment for TMJ pain. However it is important to note that dry needling may not be effective for everyone. If you are considering dry needling for TMJ pain, it is important to talk to your chiropractor or a qualified healthcare professional.
Here are some of the benefits of dry needling for TMJ pain:
- Reduces pain
- Improves function
- Safe and effective
- Non-invasive
- Can be used in conjunction with other treatments
If you are considering dry needling for TMJ pain, it is important to talk to your TMJ chiropractor or a qualified healthcare professional. They can help you determine if dry needling may be a suitable option for you.
References
- Dıraçoğlu, Demirhan et al. ‘Effectiveness of Dry Needling for the Treatment of Temporomandibular Myofascial Pain: A Double-blind, Randomized, Placebo Controlled Study’. 1 Jan. 2012 : 285 – 290.
- (2020) Efficacy of dry needling in patients with myofascial temporomandibular disorders related to the masseter muscle, CRANIO®, 38:5, 305-311, DOI: 10.1080/08869634.2018.1526848
