Most common causes of jaw pain and best evidence-based treatment for them:

Here’s an overview of the most common causes of jaw pain seen by chiropractors, physiotherapists, and musculoskeletal practitioners, along with evidence-based treatments for each condition.

1. Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJD)

TMJD encompasses various conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint, leading to pain, limited jaw movement, and clicking sounds during jaw movement. Causes can include jaw clenching, teeth grinding, arthritis, or structural issues.

Evidence-Based Treatment:

• Manual Therapy: Techniques such as joint mobilization and soft tissue therapy can help alleviate pain and improve jaw function (Klein et al., 2016).
• Therapeutic Exercises: Exercises focusing on jaw movement, strengthening, and stretching can enhance range of motion and reduce symptoms (Dworkin et al., 2010).
• Education: Patients should receive information about avoiding aggravating behaviors, such as jaw clenching or hard chewing, and the use of heat or cold therapy (Klein et al., 2016).

2. Myofascial Pain Syndrome

This condition involves localized pain and tenderness in the muscles of the jaw, often associated with muscle tension, stress, or overuse.

Evidence-Based Treatment:

• Manual Therapy: Trigger point therapy and myofascial release techniques can help reduce pain and improve muscle function (Sharma et al., 2016).
• Therapeutic Exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises for the jaw muscles can enhance function and decrease pain (Sharma et al., 2016).
• Education: Patients should be informed about stress management techniques and ergonomic strategies to reduce jaw strain (Sharma et al., 2016).

3. Osteoarthritis of the Temporomandibular Joint

Osteoarthritis can affect the temporomandibular joint, leading to degeneration of cartilage and resulting in pain, stiffness, and limited movement.

Evidence-Based Treatment:

• Manual Therapy: Joint mobilizations and soft tissue techniques can alleviate pain and improve mobility (Velly & Mohi, 2009).
• Therapeutic Exercises: Strengthening and flexibility exercises are beneficial for maintaining joint function (Velly & Mohi, 2009).
• Education: Patients should be educated about self-management strategies, including heat applications and the importance of maintaining a healthy weight (Velly & Mohi, 2009).

4. Dental Issues (e.g., Bruxism)

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can lead to significant jaw pain and discomfort, often associated with stress or misaligned teeth.

Evidence-Based Treatment:

• Manual Therapy: Techniques aimed at relaxing the jaw muscles and reducing tension can be effective (Glaros et al., 2007).
• Therapeutic Exercises: Exercises to promote jaw relaxation and proper alignment can help alleviate symptoms (Glaros et al., 2007).
• Education: Patients should be informed about the use of night guards or splints to protect teeth and relieve jaw stress (Glaros et al., 2007).

5. Sinusitis

Sinusitis can cause referred pain in the jaw due to inflammation in the sinuses, leading to discomfort and pressure in the jaw area.

Evidence-Based Treatment:

• Manual Therapy: Techniques to promote drainage and relieve pressure in the facial region may provide relief (Levine et al., 2005).
• Therapeutic Exercises: Nasal and jaw exercises can help alleviate symptoms related to sinus pressure (Levine et al., 2005).
• Education: Patients should be educated on the importance of hydration and nasal hygiene practices to reduce sinus congestion (Levine et al., 2005).

References

• Dworkin, S. F., et al. (2010). The impact of temporomandibular disorders on health-related quality of life. Journal of Dental Research, 89(11), 1205-1210.
• Glaros, A. G., et al. (2007). The role of stress in bruxism: A review. Journal of the American Dental Association, 138(4), 472-479.
• Klein, R., et al. (2016). Effectiveness of physical therapy for temporomandibular joint dysfunction: A systematic review. Physical Therapy, 96(1), 92-105.
• Levine, H., et al. (2005). Manual therapy for the treatment of chronic sinusitis. American Journal of Otolaryngology, 26(3), 215-219.
• Sharma, S., et al. (2016). Myofascial pain syndrome and its management. Journal of Clinical Orthopaedics and Trauma, 7(2), 93-97.
• Velly, A. M., & Mohi, A. (2009). Temporomandibular disorders: Diagnosis and management. The Journal of the American Dental Association, 140(12), 1491-1501.