by Lynn Lopez
If you have ever experienced a strange clicking noise when you open your mouth or when you chew, or have been living with jaw pain for sometime, then you may be suffering from at least one of the TMJ symptoms. What is TMJ? You know that your lower jawbone is connected to your skull, but have you ever wondered what connected those parts together? It is the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) that does this job, one of the human body's most complex joints. Keep in mind, however, that when referring to TMJ disorders, the acronym TMJ refers not only to the two joints, but it also includes the parts in the skull that facilitate the opening and closing of the mouth. There are other TMJ symptoms you should pay attention to as well. Have you had difficulty biting and/or chewing? Ever suffer from head and neck pain? How about any pain in and around the ear, sometimes extending to your throat? Some people have even reported experiencing tenderness of the jaw.
Your best course of action is to schedule an appointment with a physician that specializes in TMJ disorders. Prior to your appointment, list down the symptoms you have been experiencing. It is better to be prepared, so when you meet with your doctor, they can best diagnose your condition. Expect to have your jaw's functioning evaluated. Once they have ascertained that what you are experiencing are indeed TMJ symptoms, then they will let you know the various TMJ treatment options at your disposal.
Do not fret. Treatments are merely symptomatic. Fortunately, TMJ symptoms respond well to simple and uncomplicated treatments. They usually prescribe basic remedies, such as taking an anti-inflammatory medicine. You might be advised to apply an ice pack or a heating pad to the affected areas; to rest your jaw, or even to start using a mouth splint.
There is still no conclusive research on the causes of TMJ disorders. Current research points to teeth grinding (bruxism), nail biting, bad chewing habits, clenched jaws, arthritic jaws, facial blows and traumas as some of the possible causes of TMJ disorders. These actions share a familiar effect - they apply pressure on and wear down the TMJs. A common consensus among physicians is that TMJ disorders are stress-related. You can exercise on a regular basis, listen to music you love, indulge in a hobby (such as gardening, bird watching, and the like), meditate, and pray.
It is best to address your stress levels before focusing on other more advanced treatments for your TMJ symptoms. On top of following the conservative therapy that your physician will prescribe, the best thing you can do is try to lessen the stress in your life.
Rocabado TMJ exercisescan be a powerful to tool for healing. Research as much as you can on TMJ physical therapy exercises and stop living in pain from day to day. Too many people just accept TMJ as part of life, you don't have to settle for that pain. Look into a cure today.
