TMJ Symptoms & Neck Pain
The TMJ, which stands for the temporomandibular joint, connects the skull to the lower jaw and can be easily found by feeling the cheek in front of the ear and then opening and closing the jaw. TMJ also refers to a painful condition affecting the joint which often causes neck pain and other symptoms.
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Common causes
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TMJ can be caused by trauma or accident, such as whiplash, a "bad bite" (underbite or overbite), grinding of teeth, repetitive motion that strains the neck or simply stress and emotional trauma.
Symptoms
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Neck and jaw pain may be the most common symptoms of TMJ; however, some may experience headaches and even migraines, a "popping" or "cracking" jaw, ear pain and difficulty or pain while chewing.
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The jaw-neck connection
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TMJ affects the neck so dramatically because the nerve which innervates the muscles of the jaw and temporomandibular joint also innervates many of the muscles of the neck. Neck problems can stimulate jaw pain and vice versa, jaw dysfunction may cause neck pain.
Medical treatment of symptoms
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Only a medical professional can determine a specific course of treatment for TMJ symptoms and neck pain, as the causes of the condition can vary greatly from person to person. Treatment may include some form of dental care, physical therapy, strength training, medications to relieve spasms and pain as well as treatment for anxiety and stress.
Getting relief
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In addition to a course of treatment as recommended by your doctor, many people find some relief from TMJ symptoms and neck pain by sleeping without a pillow or with a different pillow, getting regular massage, drinking plenty of water, reducing repetitive motions that strain the neck and jaw, stopping chewing gum and stretching on a regular basis.
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