TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint syndrome. It is a condition that affects the joint that connects your jaw to your skull. TMJ specifically refers to a pain that is localized to this particular joint. It is usually a result of the joint being injured or damaged.
What Is TMJ for the Average Sufferer?
For the average person, TMJ syndrome can result from a number of things including injury to the jaw and teeth, misalignment of the jaw or teeth, grinding of the teeth, gum chewing, poor posture, stress, and even arthritis. It can cause quite a bit of discomfort.
Symptoms of TMJ
The symptoms of TMJ are quite specific, so it can be relatively easily diagnosed. Some of the symptoms of TMJ include the following:
- Jaw joint paint
- Headache
- Stiff or sore jaw muscles
- Clicking and popping of the jaw
- Earache or ear pain
- Temple pain
- Jaw joint locking
TMJ Treatment
The good news is that TMJ treatment is possible. Temporomandibular joint syndrome often responds well to in-home remedies such as applying ice-packs to the joint, taking non-steroid anti-inflammatories, massaging the jaw and neck or reducing stress.
What Happens When Home Treatment Does Not Work For TMJ?
For those who find that their TMJ syndrome does not respond well to in-home efforts, there are better options. Medical treatment is available for TMJ syndrome and includes the likes of head and neck massages, splints, physical therapy, Botox, and even prescription drugs. For those who have a more serious case of TMJ that does not respond to any of the treatments, surgery is an option.
Get in Touch with Your Local TMJ Specialist
If you are suffering from persistent TMJ pain, it is best to consult with a TMJ specialist. Here you can have the severity of your TMJ assessed and be provided with potential treatment options.
At The Head & Neck Centers of Excellence, we specialize in the treatment of TMJ. To learn more about TMJ and how we can help to alleviate the associated discomfort in your life, contact us via email or telephone for more information and advice today.
