Do you have constant jaw pain? Whether you’re suffering from old injuries or it’s a new painful experience, it can be difficult to interact with friends, eat, and speak.
You may have heard about a condition called TMJ and want to find relief. The jaw pain that comes from TMJ is common, but it can still be debilitating. Luckily, there are plenty of natural ways to relieve the pain.
We’re here to bring you the best TMJ exercises to help you cope.
Keep reading to learn more!
What is TMJ?
TMJ stands for Temporomandibular Joint. It is the joint that connects your jawbone to your skull on each side of your face. The TMJ is responsible for the movement of the jaw, allowing you to speak, chew, and yawn.
TMJ disorder or dysfunction is a condition that affects the joint, muscles, and nerves that control jaw movement. It is often characterized by pain and discomfort in the jaw, face, neck, or ears, difficulty chewing, popping or clicking sounds in the jaw, and even headaches or migraines.
The exact causes of TMJ disorder are not always clear, but some factors that may contribute to the condition include stress, teeth grinding or clenching, poor posture, and injury or trauma to the jaw or face.
It is important to visit a doctor, dentist, or chiropractor for TMJ pain and find a personalized plan of treatment. Professionals can give advice and treatment options that can help reduce pain and improve mobility in the jaw.
Best Exercises for TMJ Pain Relief
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) exercises can be an effective way to relieve pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorder. Here are some of the best TMJ exercises to relieve jaw pain:
Jaw Exercises
Open your mouth as wide as possible and hold it for a few seconds, then slowly close your mouth. Repeat this exercise several times. Another exercise is to move your jaw from side to side, also holding for a few seconds and repeating several times.
Chin Tucks
Stand or sit with your back straight and your shoulders relaxed. Then, pull your chin straight back towards your neck, holding for a few seconds before releasing. Repeat several times.
Tongue Exercises
Place the tip of your tongue behind your upper front teeth and slide it back along the roof of your mouth as far as you can without pain. Hold for a few seconds, then release. Repeat several times.
Neck Stretches
Gently tilt your head to the side, bringing your ear towards your shoulder, holding for a few seconds before releasing. Repeat on the other side. You can also tilt your head forward, bringing your chin towards your chest, and then tilt it back, looking up towards the ceiling.
Resistance Training
Place your thumb under your chin and gently push your chin down against the resistance of your thumb. Hold for a few seconds, then release. Repeat several times.
The Best TMJ Exercises for Pain Relief
It’s important to remember that everyone’s TMJ pain is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Be sure to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new TMJ exercises, and to stop any exercise that causes pain or discomfort. Additionally, if you have chronic TMJ pain or if your pain is severe, you should consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for you.
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