How You Can Manage Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders

We pay little to no attention to our facial movements, like smiling, talking, and chewing, until they start causing pain. Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction, TMJ dysfunction, for short, is a painful condition that makes it challenging for a person to perform simple movements without experiencing pain. It develops due to certain habits and behaviors that strain jaw and neck muscles. In most cases, TMD symptoms resolve independently in a few days or weeks; sometimes, patients need to visit a TMJ specialist to treat the condition. If you have been experiencing pain due to TMD, the following can help you manage them.

Improve your posture

Your muscles in the neck and shoulder areas experience strain when you sit in one position for extended periods. Switch to an ergonomic workstation and take frequent breaks. Sit upright when driving or performing any leisure activity, like reading, by raising your chest bone, pulling your shoulders back, and squeezing the shoulder blades.

Change your bad habits

Your habits can be responsible for developing TMD and causing pain. If you frequently chew your lips or cheeks, bite your nails, grind or clench your teeth, or rest your jaw on your hand, change your habits. Since breaking a pattern takes time, it’s best to meet a TMJ specialist and discuss how you can improve your condition.

Avoid a few activities

When you experience pain in the jaw and neck muscles, performing a few actions can be challenging. Since certain activities make you open your mouth and move your jaw forcefully or in an extreme way, avoid yelling or yawning, taking large bites of food, and munching on hard foods that require prolonged chewing.

Perform jaw exercises

Performing jaw exercises benefit joints and muscles by increasing mobility. You can perform stretching, strengthening, and relaxation exercises at home; however, it’s best to meet a TMJ specialist first; otherwise, you risk worsening the condition. They may suggest what will be best to improve your condition.

Besides these, consider reducing stress by practicing meditation that helps you relax your muscles and avoid putting your hands under your jaw or sleeping on your stomach. Get in touch with a TMJ specialist in San Diego at the earliest convenience.

 

 

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