ShareThisCategories of temporomandibular disorders:
Myofascial pain: Discomfort or pain in the muscles that control the jaw, neck and shoulders.
Internal (disk) derangement: Dislocated jaw or injury to the condyle.
Degenerative joint disease: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis within the jaw joint.
Self-help tips:
Avoid chewing gum
Avoid clenching or tensing the jaw
Yawn against pressure (hand under chin)
Avoid general anesthesia when possible
Avoid long dental appointments, and rest frequently during dental treatments
Apply cold compresses for new injuries (less than 72 hours) or re-injury
Apply moist heat to increase circulation and relax muscles
Massage jaw and temples
Acupressure: Massage the point between the thumb and forefinger
Maintain good posture
Do not cradle the telephone; it irritates jaw and neck muscles
Sleep on your side with support between the neck and shoulders
Exercise to minimize joint pressure
Source: www.tmjsociety.org
(Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, http://www.scrippsnews.com)
Must credit Sacramento BeeSidebar to TMJ
