Every day, numerous Americans endure symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD), a chronic condition resulting in pain and inflammation throughout the entire body. Although TMD originates in the joint that connects the skull to the mandible, many sufferers experience a range of symptoms, including back pain, headaches, dizziness, ringing in the ears and more. Because they are often desperate for TMJ relief, many sufferers turn to acupuncture. Unfortunately, new research suggests this treatment method might offer little help.
Disappointing Results
Recently, a team of researchers conducted a systematic review of various clinical trials that aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture as a TMD treatment. Each trial compared real acupuncture treatments to fake or “sham” acupuncture, which is used to convince participants that they are receiving treatment when they are actually only getting a placebo effect. Ultimately, the researchers noted that sham acupuncture provided about the same amount of TMJ relief as the real thing.
Getting Real, Lasting TMJ Relief
Alternative TMD treatments rarely prove effective, because they only target the symptoms associated with the condition. This is akin to massaging a broken leg, instead of addressing the facture within.
To get effective, lasting TMJ relief, you need a treatment that focuses on the root cause of the problem: a misaligned bite. Dr. Berry provides a noninvasive TMJ treatment that can eliminate the painful symptoms associated with TMD. Contact our office online or call (303) 691-0267 today to learn more.
