Chiropractic Treatment of Temporomandibular Dysfunction: A Retrospective Case Series

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study is to describe chiropractic treatment of 14 patients who presented with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD).

Methods: This is a retrospective case series of 14 patients, including 13 adults and 1 child. The majority of these patients were undergoing chiropractic care for spine-related conditions when they presented with additional TMD signs and symptoms. They were evaluated and treated with Activator Methods International published protocols relative to the temporomandibular joint before the addition of treatment to the suprahyoid muscles.

Results: All pre- and postadjustment assessments were recorded using a numeric pain scale. The resulting average showed a reduction in the patients' pain scores from the initial visit of 8.3 ± 1.6 to the last visit at 1.4 ± 1.1 with an 80.9% ± 15.4% improvement. The average number of visits was 13.6 ± 8.2.

Conclusion: All patients selected for this case series showed a reduction of temporomandibular dysfunction symptoms.

Keywords: Chiropractic; Mandible; Temporomandibular joint dysfunction syndrome.

Fig 1

TMD signs and symptoms.

Fig 2

Suprahyoid pressure test. Digital pressure is applied to the suprahyoid muscles, trying to locate areas of tenderness and spasm which create change in the prone leg length. Test the short leg side (pelvic deficient) first; if no reactivity, test the opposite leg (opposite pelvic deficiency) (note that for photographic illustration, patient’s head is turned out of the neutral, prone posture). (Color version of figure appears online.)

Fig 3

Adjustment with the Activator II Adjusting Instrument on the 1-ring setting at the point of tenderness and leg length reactivity (shortening) change. Line of drive is in a posterior and slightly superior direction in the anatomical position. (Color version of figure appears online.)

Fig 4

In the case of clicking upon mandibular depression, the patient is asked to open his or her mouth while the doctor applies pressure to the suprahyoid muscles until the symptomatology reduces. (Color version of figure appears online.)