One of my specialties is the treatment of TMJ – related problems. Patients who experience pain during eating or speaking and have difficulty opening their mouths to the dentist are referred to me. Many of those with severe TMJ problems sleep with a splint in their mouth (a special piece of silicone). Without this, they tighten their teeth too much while they sleep, and the next morning they cannot open their mouths.
TMJ are the two joints connecting the jawbone to the skull (one on the right and one on the left side). These joints can be felt whilte palpating under the ears. The pain in this area can be so immense that even strong painkillers fail to alleviate it. The problem is common among athletes with developed muscles. However, not only athletes may suffer from TMJ pain. The reasons for this problem are diverse. In certain cases the cause lies in chewing muscles, in others it is in the joint itself.
What should you do if you have a TMD (TMJ disorder)? In case of severe pain, consult with a physician or a physical therapist. After examination and diagnosis, you will receive treatment according to the findings. Some supportive procedures are also recommended: massage the pain centers with Voltaren gel or with ice, or the opposite: warm them using a hot bottle. The purpose of all these methods is to improve blood flow in the area, to release a jaw spasm and, as a result, to reduce pain.
Doctor Mariano Rocabado is a famous Californian physiotherapist whose research became a base for development of series of most effective exercises for people with TMD. The exercises are suited for various states and reasons. Here is a example of exercises published on one of the websites.
A very effective and safe exercise is releasing the tongue, the facial muscles and the chewing muscles, letting the tongue "float" freely up until it touches the bases of the upper teeth. At the same time it is recommended to practice diaphragmatic breathing. Try this and discover many other methods that help with TMD.
(The content appearing on the site is intended to expand the users' personal knowledge and is a substitute for professional advice)
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