If you have TMJ, that means that the hinge that connects your upper and lower jaw isn’t functioning like it should. You might not realize it, but this particular hinge is one of the more complex ones in your entire body. It is responsible for moving your lower jaw backward, forward and to the side. Anytime there is an issue that prevents all of the discs, bones, ligaments and muscles from being able to work the way they should, the condition is referred to as TMJ.
Individuals suffering with TMJ will feel a popping or clicking in their jaw. It isn’t always easy to figure out what is causing the misalignment either. If you are suffering with TMJ, there are a few things you can do to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with it.
Moist Heat
Moist heat from a hot water bottle or heating pack wrapped up in a moist towel can help minimize pain and improve functionality. Don’t make the water bottle too hot. Otherwise, you could end up burning yourself and causing more problems.
Soft Diet
When your jaw is in pain, you don’t want to eat a bunch of hard foods that are going to make it work harder. You should stick with blended or soft foods that let your jaw rest while still giving your body the nourishment it needs. Another thing to avoid is any foods that are going to make you stretch your mouth farther than what it should, such as corn on the cob, whole fruits and apples. If you do want to eat fruit, you need to chop it up into more manageable pieces so as to avoid undue pressure on your mouth.
Ice
Ice packs work wonders for decreasing inflammation and numbing the pain. They also work to help promote the healing process and get your body moving in the right direction. Avoid placing an ice pack right against your skin. Wrap it in a thin towel while in use. Practice the 15-minute rule of 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off over the span of a couple hours. This should help give you the relief you need.
Side Sleeping
Another great way to alleviate TMJ problems is by changing up the way you sleep. Try sleeping on your side using a pillow as support between your neck and your shoulder. This will prevent your jaw from sliding or slipping out of position while you sleep and help hold it where it is supposed to be in the first place.
Yawning
While you can’t exactly prevent yourself from yawning, you can change the way you yawn. If you feel a yawn coming on, use your fist as a means of support. Place it underneath of your chin while yawning to help prevent any damage to your joints and prevent your jaw from getting stuck in the open position. The last thing you want is for your jaw to lock open and not be able to shut it.
By going through the tips above, you can help put an end to your TMJ problems and find the relief you need. Even though you might not be able to eliminate TMJ altogether, that doesn’t mean you have to deal with all of the symptoms and repercussions that come with it. You can fight back by taking action in dealing with the condition.