TMJ a Pain in the........Jaw

It is uncertain what causes Temporomandibular Joint syndrome (more commonly known as TMJ).  Studies suggest it could stem from the misalignment of teeth or bite, weakness in the muscles or ligaments, or malformation of bone or ligament.

I even went to a lecture on body mechanics that said it was caused by high heels and another which said it was a lack of HCL.

Whatever the cause, listed are symptoms associated with it and suggestions on how to alleviate some of the pain and discomfort.

SUGGESTIONS ON HOW TO ALLEVIATE THE PAIN OF TMJ:

1. Warm compresses to jaw.
2. Support Jaw.  sold in sporting goods stores are mouth guards that soften when dipped in hot water.  Find correct bite and form around teeth.  Some wear to bed at night.
3. Eat food that needs less chewing (limit gum)
4. Massage jaw at intervals during the day.
5. Don't use pillows to sleep.  Put a towel about the thickness of the wrist under dips of neck and back and a pillow under your knees.  Avoid sleeping on your side.
6. Hold jaw when yawning to restrict spread of mouth.
7. Don't prop your head at a sharp angle when lying on your back.
8. Don't prop chin with hand.
9. Don't carry heavy purse on shoulder.
10. Don't wear high heels.  Misalignment in one part of the body can put stress on every part of the body.
11. Don't hold phone between chin and shoulder.
12. Stop night grinding of teeth.  Usually bruxism (grinding of teeth) is caused by unreleased stress.  Following are some home remedies that might help stop the grinding:

    • Keep jaw in resting position when awake.  (teeth should only touch when you are chewing or swallowing.
    • Tire out your jaw by eating raw vegetables or fruits before going to bed to help satisfy the urge to grind.
    • Apply heat to jaw, this may relax the muscles.
    • Valerian root has been used historically for relaxing before bed.
    • Cut out the caffeine.

You may also want to see a craniomandibular manipulator (a person who manipulates the bones in your head gently back into proper alignment).

Minerals ,especially Calcium (possibly mega-doses), should be considered.