If you're dealing with jaw pain, and you've been diagnosed with TMJ, you want to find natural ways to alleviate the discomfort you're experiencing. This is particularly important while your doctor is determining the best course of treatment for you. Pain and discomfort associated with TMJ can make it difficult for you to chew, speak, and even yawn. Luckily, there are some natural ways you can get some relief from the pain. Here are four simple steps to get you started with TMJ treatment.
1. Give Your Jaw a Good Massage
If TMJ pain is getting you down throughout the day, you need to give your jaw a good massage. This method can be performed virtually anywhere, including at your desk. All you need to do is open your mouth, place your index and middle fingers on the area of your face right below your ears, with your index fingers resting on your jaw. Gently massage in a circular motion for about 30 seconds, and then reverse the motion. Next, close your mouth and repeat the massage. Use this whenever you feel your jaw tightening up.
2. Practice Good Posture
You might not realize this, but your posture has a lot to do with alleviating the discomfort in your jaw. When you lean forward, with your chin extended, you put additional strain on your neck and jaw. Unfortunately, when you have TMJ, that added strain can translate to added pain and discomfort. Instead, make sure that sit with your back straight and your chin in a natural position. It's also important that you avoid holding your phone between your jaw and your shoulder. That position can also cause increased pain associated with TMJ.
3. Put Your Jaw on Guard
If you grind your teeth at night, or during the day, you need to give your jaw a break. Grinding your teeth can cause significant damage to your jaw, especially when you suffer from TMJ. In fact, if you grind your teeth, you may find that you wake up in the morning with a stiff jaw. If that's the case, you need to sleep with a mouth guard. The guard will prevent you from grinding your teeth, and give your jaw a much-needed break.
4. Lighten Your Load
If you carry a heavy purse or briefcase, you'll want to lighten your load. Carrying a heavy purse or briefcase can cause you to put more weight on one side of your body, which can increase the pain associated with TMJ. To avoid the discomfort, try to unload some of the weight from your purse or briefcase. If you can't, be sure to switch the weight from time to time.
