A 19-year-old female presented to our clinic with symptoms consistent with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. She reported difficulty opening her mouth, eating, and talking due to persistent jaw pain that had gradually worsened over the past four years.
The patient also expressed concern that, without proper treatment, she might eventually require surgery, an outcome she was eager to avoid.
Chief Complaints
- Jaw Pain and neck tightness present for approximately four years, described as sharp, nerve-like pain that intensifies with movement or exertion of the jaw.
- Noticeable jaw clicking sounds and limited range of motion, especially when attempting to move the jaw to the right.
- Pain rated at 9/10 at its worst, most recently experienced the night before her initial visit.
Medical & Lifestyle History
- jaw clenching (bruxism) began approximately 4 years ago, occurring mostly during sleep. This has periodically affected eating and talking.
- Previous chiropractic care: none documented.
- Prior treatments sought: warm compresses and ibuprofen for temporary relief.
- No other major traumas or ongoing medical conditions reported.
Examination Findings
Initial X-rays and examinations revealed for cervical spine range of motion:
Cervical Spine Range of Motion:
- Flexion: 50° (normal 60°)
- Extension: 50° (normal 60°)
- Lateral Flexion (Left): 40° (normal 45°)
- Lateral Flexion (Right): 40° (normal 45°)
- Rotation (Left): 70° (normal 80°)
- Rotation (Right): 70° (normal 80°)
Orthopedic Testing
- Positive TMJ tenderness bilaterally, more pronounced on the right.
- Clicking and mild deviation observed upon mouth opening.
- All other orthopedic tests (Jackson’s, Kemp’s, Soto Hall, Bechterew, Fabere, Yeoman’s, etc.) were negative.
Customized Care Plan
To correct the underlying dysfunction contributing to her TMJ disorder and restore proper jaw and cervical alignment, the patient underwent a structured Spinal Corrective Care Plan lasting three months (24 visits total).
Her individualized program included:
- 12 Sessions of Shockwave Therapy – to stimulate healing, reduce inflammation, and relieve chronic muscle tension in the jaw and neck area.
- 24 Chiropractic Adjustments – to restore alignment and improve function of the spine, neck, and temporomandibular joint.
- 3 Re-evaluations – scheduled throughout care to monitor progress and modify treatment as needed.
- 1 Final X-ray – to assess post-treatment structural improvements.
- 1 Ergonomic Recommendation – addressing posture, sleeping position, and daily habits that may contribute to TMJ strain.
- 3 Home Stretching and Exercise Instructions – to reinforce in-clinic care, improve stability, and prevent recurrence.
Post-Treatment Results
After completing her three-month, 24-visit corrective care plan and performing the prescribed stretches 2–4 times per week throughout her treatment. The patient reported excellent overall improvement, estimating a 95% reduction in her pain.
Cervical Range of Motion:
- Flexion: Improved from 40° → 45° (normal: 50°)
- Extension: Improved from 50° → 55° (normal: 60°)
- Lateral Flexion – Left: Improved from 40° → 45° (normal: 45°)
- Lateral Flexion – Right: Remained at 40° (normal: 45°)
- Rotation – Left: Improved from 70° → 75° (normal: 80°)
- Rotation – Right: Improved from 70° → 75° (normal: 80°)
These results indicate significant functional progress and decreased restriction across most planes of movement, with only mild limitation remaining in right lateral flexion.
Final Outcome
After completing her three-month corrective care plan, the patient experienced remarkable improvements in both comfort and function. Her jaw pain, which had once reached 9/10 in severity, was almost completely resolved, and she regained full, pain-free range of motion.
She also noted significant relief from neck tension and lower back discomfort, allowing her to work, eat, and speak without any form of restriction.
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