Jaw pain can be frustrating, especially when it affects eating, speaking, or even sleeping. Many people with temporomandibular disorder (TMD) seek relief without realizing their jaw problem may be linked to another part of the body: the pelvis.
A 2025 study published in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders explored the connection between TMD and sacroiliac joint (pelvic) movement. The findings support what chiropractors see every day—the body is an interconnected system, and jaw pain is rarely “just about the jaw.”
What Is Temporomandibular Disorder (TMD)?
TMD refers to dysfunction or pain in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which connects the jawbone to the skull. Common symptoms include:
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Jaw clicking or popping
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Pain when chewing or speaking
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Headaches or earaches
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Facial tension or limited jaw movement
The Surprising Connection Between the Jaw and Pelvis
The jaw, spine, and pelvis are connected through muscles, fascia, and even the nervous system. Poor posture or pelvic imbalances can change spinal alignment, which may place extra strain on the jaw. Conversely, jaw dysfunction can contribute to tension and imbalances further down the chain.
This “jaw-pelvis connection” means addressing only one area may not provide lasting relief.
What This New Study Found
In the study, researchers compared 20 people with TMD to 20 without. Using 3D motion analysis, they measured sacroiliac joint (SIJ) movement during trunk flexion (bending forward).
Key findings:
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TMD patients showed altered pelvic mechanics. Their sacrum moved differently compared to healthy participants, especially when standing.
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Pain was linked to severity. Higher TMD severity correlated with greater pain intensity.
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Jaw mobility wasn’t the only issue. Even without reduced jaw motion, pelvic changes were present.
This suggests TMD is not isolated—it’s tied to whole-body biomechanics.
How Chiropractic Care Helps with TMD
Chiropractic care focuses on restoring healthy motion to the spine and joints, reducing stress on the nervous system, and improving posture. Here’s how it can support those with TMD:
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Postural correction: Adjustments to the pelvis and spine can ease strain on the jaw.
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Improved biomechanics: Balancing the sacroiliac joints and spine supports better jaw function.
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Holistic care: Chiropractors address the entire body, not just symptoms, which can reduce compensations that worsen TMD.
For many patients, combining chiropractic care with jaw-specific therapies, exercises, and relaxation strategies provides the most relief.
Holistic Relief for Jaw Pain
This research highlights what chiropractors have long known—the jaw and pelvis are more connected than most people realize. If you’re struggling with jaw pain, TMD, or posture-related issues, chiropractic care offers a safe, non-invasive way to restore balance and improve quality of life.
If you’re in Kansas City, we’d love to help. Book an appointment today and discover how chiropractic care can support both your jaw and your overall wellness. https://vitalitechiropractic.janeapp.com
FAQs
Can chiropractic care help with jaw pain?
Yes. By improving spinal and pelvic alignment, chiropractic care can reduce strain that contributes to jaw dysfunction and pain.
Is jaw pain linked to posture?
Absolutely. Poor posture, especially in the neck and pelvis, can influence jaw mechanics and increase TMD symptoms.
What’s the connection between the jaw and pelvis?
The jaw, spine, and pelvis are linked through muscles, fascia, and nervous system pathways. Imbalances in one area often create problems in another.
Kelli Westhues
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