How to Treat TMJ Disorder Naturally

TMJ disorder is the short name for temperormandibular joint disorder. The temperormandibular joint is where the jaw attaches to the skull.

Symptoms of TMJ are many and include popping and clicking of the jaw, tenderness of the jaw, headaches, neck and shoulder pain, earaches, tinnitus (ringing of the ears) and grinding of the teeth, among others.

TMJ disorder causes a lot of pain and those who have it are always looking for ways to treat it and decrease if not eliminate TMJ pain.

Surgery is one possible way to deal with TMJ, but those who wish to first attempt to treat it naturally may want to try the steps in this article.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. 
    
   TMJ is diagnosed by a dentist.

   First, make sure that your TMJ is properly diagnosed. You may need to start with your family doctor who can help determine if you have TMJ, but since TMJ is primarily treated by dentists, a dentist will likely be the one to confirm whether or not you have TMJ.

2. 
    
   Excessive time on the computer may cause TMJ to flare up

   Pay attention to what sets off your TMJ. For instance, you may notice that if you spend a lot of time on the computer and use your right hand to manipulate the mouse a lot that your right arm, shoulder, neck and jaw are impacted by the amount of time on the computer.

3. Modify your behavior that causes TMJ to flare up. For instance, with the example in step two, time on the computer, you may need to reduce the amount of time you are on the computer, take frequent breaks during your computer time and so on.
   
   You may not be able to completely stop the behavior that causes your TMJ to flare up because it may be necessary for your work or normal daily living, but do what you can to reduce the activities that cause your TMJ to flare up.

4. Eat a healthy diet. A diet rich in vegetables is important. Also, contrary to much health advice, consumption of red meat which contains iron,zinc and Vitamin B12 is important in treating TMJ.
   
   Avoid foods with sugar, yeast and preservatives.

5. Improve your posture. Particularly if you slump forward when on the computer, you will find that your TMJ symptoms increase. Make a point of sitting up straight as much as possible.

6. 
    
   Headaches are a common symptom of TMJ disorder

   Some find that sleeping without a pillow helps reduce neck pain and headaches associated with TMJ.

7. 
    
   Stretching exercises help reduce TMJ pain.

   Stretching exercises, particularly exercises that stretch neck and shoulder muscles are an important part of treating TMJ pain. It is better to do the exercises regularly throughout the day rather than spending a lot of time doing the exercises all at once. For instance, if on the computer all day, about once an hour stop and do neck and shoulder exercises for just a few minutes

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared for TMJ treatment to be a long process. It generally takes a lot of time to work through issues associated with TMJ.
• Be prepared to alter your lifestyle on a regular basis in terms of avoiding things that cause your TMJ to flare up.
• Live an overall healthy lifestyle and reduce stress to aid in your overall treatment of TMJ disorder.

Resources

• TMJ Help Program
• Cure for Bruxism
• Get Rid of TMJ