Do you suffer from recurring jaw pain? You might be suffering from a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. Your temporomandibular joints are located on either side of your face, just in front of your ears. They allow you to open and close your mouth and make other movements necessary for your wellness. However, the joints can function incorrectly for various reasons, which is known as a TMJ disorder. Although the issue affects your jaw, the source of the problem might be your posture. Here’s how slouching can increase your risk of a TMJ disorder.
What is a TMJ Disorder?
A TMJ disorder occurs when the function of the joints is limited. Jaw dysfunction can cause several complications, including:
- Clicking, popping, or grating sensations in the jaw.
- Jaw locking in an opened or closed position.
- Ringing in the ears or ear pain.
- Head, shoulder, or neck pain.
TMJ disorders are often attributed to a poor bite, teeth grinding, trauma, and other factors. However, researchers have found a link between poor posture and jaw pain.
Posture and Jaw Pain
Believe it or not, poor posture can increase your risk of TMJ pain from muscle tension and misalignment. Forward head posture issues can shift the alignment of your head and neck, which can strain the muscles and ligaments in the neck, shoulders, and jaw. Sitting or standing with rounded shoulders can lead to muscle imbalances that cause tension in the neck, shoulders, and jaw. Even pelvic misalignment can place stress on the neck and jaw.
Improving your posture can help stop your jaw pain. Here are a few simple tricks to sit and stand up tall:
- Pretend you are walking or sitting with a book on your head.
- Sit with your back against the back of the chair.
- Get up and move around often.
- Stretch often to keep your muscles loose.
Managing Your Jaw Pain
There are several solutions to treat TMJ disorders, like an oral appliance. Your dentist can provide you with a custom-fit device to train your jaw to rest in a more natural position. This will take the stress off the joints to reduce TMJ flares. When combined with changes at home, like jaw strengthening-exercises and improving your posture, you can benefit from lasting relief.
About Dr. Sean Hrinda
Dr. Hrinda achieved his dental degree at Tufts University and has continued his education in many specialties, including TMJ therapy. He uses the latest solutions to stop jaw pain to improve TMJ functions. Dr. Hrinda is a member of the American Dental Association, the Massachusetts Dental Association, and the Academy of Genera; Dentistry. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (413) 772-0842.