Using Acupuncture to alleviate Temporomandibular dysfunction
Temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) refers to a group of conditions that affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), the hinge connecting your jaw to your skull. People with TMD may experience jaw pain, headaches, earaches, and even difficulty opening their mouths. While traditional treatments like pain medication or physical therapy are commonly used, acupuncture has emerged as an alternative therapy with potential benefits for TMD sufferers.
What is Acupuncture?
Western medical acupuncture is a therapeutic modality involving the insertion of fine needles. It is an adaptation of Chinese acupuncture using current knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology, and the principles of evidence based medicine. It acts mainly by stimulating the nervous system and it is mainly used to treat musculoskeletal pain, including myofascial trigger point pain.
The Connection Between Acupuncture and TMD
• Muscle Relaxation: Acupuncture can help relax the muscles around the jaw and neck, reducing muscle tension that contributes to jaw pain or stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Studies have shown that acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins and other neurochemicals that reduce pain perception, providing relief from discomfort and soreness.
• Reduction in Inflammation: Acupuncture can reduce inflammation in the TMJ area, which is often a factor in chronic pain associated with TMD.
• Stress Management: Since stress and anxiety can worsen TMD symptoms (e.g., teeth grinding), acupuncture can help calm the nervous system, reducing the stress that exacerbates TMD.
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session
• Consultation: Acupuncturists will first evaluate their symptoms, medical history, and overall health to tailor a treatment plan.
• Needling: Fine needles are inserted into specific points, which may not always be directly on the jaw but also in other areas, such as the neck, shoulders, or hands, to address muscular and nervous system issues.
•Pain Levels: Most patients report little to no discomfort during treatment, though sensations like tingling or warmth may be felt.
Additional Benefits of Acupuncture for TMD
• Improved Sleep: Many TMD patients suffer from disrupted sleep due to jaw pain or clenching. Acupuncture can promote better sleep patterns and overall restfulness.
• Fewer Side Effects: Unlike medications, acupuncture carries minimal risk of side effects or dependency, making it a safer option for long term management.
• Holistic Approach: Acupuncture offers a holistic, individualised approach to healing that addresses both physical and emotional contributors to TMD.
Integrating Acupuncture with Other Treatments
While acupuncture can be highly effective, it’s often best used in conjunction with other treatments. Acupuncture can complement physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or dental treatments.
Conclusion
• Acupuncture provides a non-invasive, medication free approach to treating TMD.
• It can help reduce pain, muscle tension, and inflammation, while also managing stress that contributes to jaw issues.
• For many individuals, acupuncture offers a pathway to long term relief and improved quality of life.
If you or anyone you know, would like to have a TMD Physiotherapy assessment and treatment, book online here or contact us here.
Blog post guest written by Laura Moore, Physiotherapist.
