The temporomandibular joint syndrome is an ailment that leads to discomfort in the jaw muscles and joints. People affected may have problems chewing, speaking, or even opening their mouths to speak or eat. TMJ is best treated using self-care measures and medical treatments that aim at easing the effects of the condition and enhancing the patient’s quality of life. It is for this reason that the following five strategies are provided to help any person living with TMJ.
1. Practice Jaw Exercises Regularly
To treat TMJ several methods are as follows: One of the approaches is to use jaw stretching exercises. These exercises serve to enhance the length, and elasticity of the muscles which are around the TMJ. Swallowing or just moving your tongue, rotating your jaw, or simply cracking your neck, tilting your head, or yawning may help to ease the pain. One should correctly do these exercises, as any exertion might worsen the symptoms of the patient. It is recommended that one gets advice from a physical therapist or any other health worker on proper exercises that are right for you. It is recommended that these routines are implemented consistently.
2. To Reduce the Clenching Of the Jaw, One Needs To Handle Stress
We note that stress is a major factor that causes TMJ discomfort. Stress affects people in different ways; most people frown or clench their jaw or grind their teeth, which increases the pressure on the joint. It is crucial to learn measures of controlling stress in an effort to decrease the behaviors mentioned above. Simple practices, for instance, meditation, deep breathing exercises, or even practicing mindfulness, ensure that one is not tensed up, and this eliminates clenching. It may also be useful to avoid stressors or do things that reduce stress, such as yoga, reading, etc. It may also be useful to tackle stress management directly which should be able to help a great deal in the improvement of TMJ symptoms.
3. Using Heat and Cold Therapy as an Effective Way to Relieve Aches and Pain
Heat and cold therapy should be considered for the treatment or relief of TMJ pains and inflammation. Placing a warm compress on the side of the face is also recommended because facial muscles may stiffen and may be aching; this will facilitate blood circulation and ease muscle spasms. Cold therapy, in contrast, aids to decrease inflammation indirectly and to anesthetize the area to pain for some time. What is more important is that it is recommended to switch between hot and cold for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Be sure to cover the compress in a towel so as to reduce the chances of touching the skin, which can lead to burns or irritation.
4. Stay Away from Foods Which Are Difficult or Challenging to Chew
There are specific changes you have to make in your diet in order to improve the condition of TMJ. Any hard or chewy foods such as raw vegetables, candies, or any form of meat will exert immense pressure on the jaws in turn enhancing the level of pain experienced by the person. Avoid hard foods like steak, apples, and raw vegetables since these would only worsen the condition of the jaw muscles. It is important to chop the foods into small portions and help them go down the throat with much difficulty, as it will help reduce pressure on the TMJ.
5. Seek Help from a Specialist for Special Treatments
If diet and other self-care practices do not prove sufficient, one needs to see a healthcare provider. People should consult a dentist, a specialist in physical therapy, or a dental TMJ professional to discuss an individual treatment plan, such as the use of a mouth guard if a person grinds his teeth at night or recommend certain exercises that help the jaw muscles. They said that, in some instances, it was appropriate to prescribe medicines or injections for the management of pain and inflammation. There are preventive measures for the condition to advance, hence, getting a medical check-up should be done if the symptoms do not fade. You can search, “TMJ specialist near me” online to help you find a specialist that will give you the most efficient treatment for your needs.
Conclusion
When one has been diagnosed with TMJ, it can be a little difficult, but with proper management of the symptoms, it can be made tolerable. With techniques ranging from exercising the jaw muscles to consuming softer foods, these five tips can be easy ways by which you can reduce pain and enhance joint movement. For all patients who still experience pain, the next step is to consult a doctor to find ways of effective treatment.
