Chiropractic care of a patient with temporomandibular disorder and atlas subluxations.

Alcantara J, Plaugher G, Klemp DD, Salem C. Chiropractic care of a patient with temporomandibular disorder and atlas subluxations. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2002;25:63-70.

Abstract:

Objective: To describe the chiropractic care of a patient with cervical subluxation and complaints associated with temporomandibular disorder.

Clinical Features: A 41-yr-old woman with complaints of bilateral ear pain, tinnitus, vertigo and altered/decreased hearing acuity, in addition to headaches, sought chiropractic care. The patient had a history of ear infections that had been treated with prescription antibiotics. Her complaints were attributed to a diagnosis of temporomandibular joint syndrome and treated unsuccessfully by a medical doctor and dentist.

Intervention and Outcome: High velocity, low amplitude adjustments (i.e., Gonstead Technique) were applied to findings of atlas subluxation. The patient’s symptomatology improved and eventually resolved after nine visits.

Conclusion: The chiropractic care of a patient suffering from temporomandibular disorder, headaches and subluxation is described. In addition, clinical issues relevant to the care of patients suffering from this disorder are discussed.