For those who suffer from the constant pain and discomfort associated with TMJ disorder, finding a method to minimize the problem is usually a continuous search (until they find a neuromuscular dentist). Patients who suffer from a bad bite causing a problem within the TMJ often experience wide-ranging symptoms. This might include inconsistent yet never-ending headaches, jaw pain, neck pain, and even tinnitus. Many patients find that there is very little they can do to help minimize let alone solve the issue of chronic pain, but that doesn’t stop them from trying everything under the sun. They try home remedies, old wives’ tales, mail-order devices, and even the metaphysical. While some of these techniques have some scientific support, such as acupuncture, others do not. Some people advocate Yoga as a method for coping with pain. This could provide temporary relief, but it is not a true treatment.
An Early Study
Canadian researchers have indeed found after completing a recent study, that yoga, when practiced twice a week for eight weeks not only decreased mental stress but also chronic pain. Many conditions cause chronic pain, including fibromyalgia, tension headaches, irritable bowl syndrome, and of course, TMJ disorder.
The study showed that those who participated in the 8-week yoga program had heightened cortisol levels and also reported a mental boost and decreased pain levels. People use yoga as an alternative therapy for a variety of health issues. Yoga is often noted for its ability to decrease stress and to help cope with pain: psychologically and physiologically.
Relax Your Jaw
Although there is currently little evidence that yoga can actually provide long-term relief from TMJ pain, some people find certain techniques provide short-term relief from symptoms. One problem people have is jaw clenching and grinding overnight. This jaw tension can lead to long-term damage.
The primary benefit of this technique is massaging jaw muscles. Most TMJ symptoms are linked not to the joint, but to the muscles. Relaxing the muscles can provide effective relief. However, if you don’t get relief from this technique, or if the relief is short-lived and symptoms recur regularly, you might need professional help.
The Limits of Home Care
Home care is often a temporary solution to TMJ symptoms. In addition to yoga, many people find hot and cold compresses help. You can also try avoiding damaging habits like gum chewing.
While yoga may be an effective way to cope with TMJ pain, it is not a true TMJ treatment. It won’t be able to resolve your TMJ problem. Yoga cannot correct a bad bite. The only real solution for those with TMJ disorder resulting from a bad bite is TMJ treatment that corrects the imbalance in the jaw joint. We can do this with noninvasive drug-free techniques. There is no need for surgery, and most people find they no longer need their pain medication. Contact Dr. Berry online or call (303) 691-0267 today if you want an end to your chronic TMJ symptoms such as headaches, jaw pain, and/or neck pain.
