Suffering from temporomandibular joint disorder, otherwise known as TMJ, can be a difficult burden to bear.
The constant, painful clicking and locking of the jaw as you try to open it can make it almost impossible to eat normally, or even speak without wincing in discomfort.
While this disorder does not have an easy fix, there are treatment methods like physical therapy and hot & cold treatments that have been proven to help alleviate the pain.
For those who suffer from TMJ, hope is still attainable for relief and a return to normalcy.
What Are The Causes Of TMJ Syndrome?
TMJ syndrome is a condition characterized by pain, swelling, and stiffness of the jaw.
The exact cause of TMJ syndrome varies from person to person, but there are several known factors that may contribute.
These include misaligned teeth or jaw trauma, arthritis, grinding teeth or clenching the jaw muscles during sleep, stress, and certain systemic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Genetics may also be a factor in the development of TMJ syndrome for some people.
While the cause of a person’s particular case of TMJ syndrome may be hard to pinpoint, addressing these possible causes can help alleviate symptoms and provide relief from this painful condition.
Why Is TMJ So Painful?
TMJ is so painful because it can cause inflammation and tightness in the jaw muscles, which can lead to difficulty opening and closing the mouth. This can cause the jaw to become ‘locked’ and make it difficult or even impossible to chew.
Additionally, TMJ disorder can create facial pain, headaches, earaches, neck aches, and even shoulder pain due to the clenching of the jaw muscles and teeth grinding.
In some cases, TMJ can lead to damaging changes in the bones around the joint, resulting in permanent damage and chronic pain.
How Can You Treat TMJ Syndrome?
Treating TMJ Syndrome effectively requires an individualized approach, as every person’s needs are unique.
Generally speaking, noninvasive treatments are the recommended first step – this can include reducing jaw exercises, dietary changes, physical therapy, and relaxation techniques such as biofeedback and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Depending on the severity of the issue, a doctor may also suggest prescription medications or injections to reduce pain and inflammation.
While noninvasive treatments are often successful, patients with extreme cases of TMJ Syndrome may need to consider more aggressive treatments such as surgeries to realign the jaw joint or remove damaged cartilage.
It is important to discuss all of these options with a doctor familiar with your symptoms before committing to any specific treatment plan.
What Are The Exercises To Help Relieve TMJ Pain?
Some exercises that may be beneficial in helping relieve TMJ pain include jaw stretches, relaxation techniques, massage therapy, and aerobic exercise.
Jaw stretches are designed to help relax the muscles of the jaw and neck, which can help reduce tension and pain associated with TMJ.
Jaw stretches include pressing your tongue against the roof of your mouth, opening and closing your mouth against resistance from your hands, and massaging the muscles of your jaw with a warm compress.
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery can also help reduce pain and tension in the jaw.
Massage therapy can be helpful in relieving TMJ pain by targeting specific muscles and releasing the tension, allowing the jaw to relax.
Finally, aerobic exercise such as walking or jogging can help increase blood flow and reduce inflammation in the joint which may be aggravating your TMJ pain. Additionally, it can help promote better posture which can also aid in relieving TMJ pain.
It is important to note that these exercises should be done in moderation and with caution.
If your TMJ pain persists, it is advised to seek out medical advice.
Additionally, it is recommended to talk to a physical therapist or doctor before beginning any new exercises to ensure safety and effectiveness.
By following these tips and regularly implementing the suggested exercises, you can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ.
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What Are The Pain Medications For Relief From TMJ Pain?
The most common method of relieving TMJ pain is to use over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. This help reduces inflammation and swelling in the area and can temporarily ease symptoms.
In some cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger pain relief medication for more severe cases of TMJ pain. These may include muscle relaxants, anti-inflammatory medications such as naproxen or corticosteroids, or opioids such as codeine or oxycodone to help manage pain levels and improve quality of life.
It is important to discuss all of your options with your doctor before taking any medication for TMJ pain relief. If over-the-counter medications are not sufficient to reduce your pain, a doctor may suggest more aggressive treatment options such as physical therapy or surgery.
In addition to medications, other treatments for TMJ pain can include jaw exercises, biofeedback techniques, and relaxation techniques like progressive muscular relaxation. Eating softer foods and avoiding hard foods that require a lot of chewing can also help reduce pain and discomfort in the jaw.
It is important to address TMJ pain as soon as possible, as it can worsen over time and lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Living With TMJ Syndrome
Living with TMJ syndrome (temporomandibular joint) can be a daily challenge.
I have been living with the condition for years now, and I can tell you firsthand that it affects more than just your jaw.
The pain, stiffness, and clicking sound of the area can cause not only headaches, but also facial tightness, ringing in the ears, neck pain, and even tooth sensitivity. But there are ways to manage it.
After trying many different options including medications, physical therapy, and dietary changes, what worked best for me was finding a skilled massage therapist who specialized in treating TMJ syndrome symptoms.
Through regular sessions of massage therapy targeting the muscles around my jaw joint and neck, I experienced a huge decrease in pain and inflammation that had plagued me for so long.
Ultimately this experience has motivated me to spread awareness of alternative treatments available to manage TMJ syndrome symptoms.