Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) affects millions of people worldwide causing discomfort and pain in the jaw, face and neck. For those suffering from TMJ it’s only natural to wonder if such chronic pain will shorten their life expectancy. After all, TMJ can lead to headaches, tinnitus and even depression. However, there’s good news: with the right treatment, you can live a long life with TMJ. In this blog post, we’ll explore some options available for those who suffer from TMJ, including chiropractic and physiotherapy.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help TMJ
Chiropractors can help alleviate TMJ symptoms by realigning the spine and improving mobility in the jaw. A Kitchener Waterloo chiropractor at CARESPACE can help identify trigger points, misalignment, muscle tension, and postural issues that may be contributing to TMJ pain. Specific chiropractic techniques, such as jaw manipulation or mobilization, can provide immediate relief and can reduce the likelihood of future pain.
How Physiotherapy Can Help TMJ
Physiotherapy involves using exercise and movement to restore the body’s natural functions. This is especially important for those with TMJ, where jaw mobility and strength may be affected. Physiotherapy in Kitchener or Waterloo at CARESPACE can include exercises that target the jaw, neck, and shoulder muscles, as well as strategies to manage stress and tension. A physiotherapist can also use modalities like ultrasound or acupuncture to help alleviate TMJ pain.
Other Options to Help TMJ
In addition to chiropractic and physiotherapy, there are other options that can help those with severe TMJ. These include massage, cognitive-behavioral therapy, acupuncture, and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation. It’s important to explore all options and find what works best for you.
Lifestyle Changes to Help TMJ
Lifestyle changes can also go a long way in helping those with TMJ. For example, avoiding chewing gum or hard foods, which puts extra stress on the jaw, can help alleviate pain. Practicing good posture and reducing stress levels can also reduce TMJ symptoms. It’s important to pay attention to your body and learn what may be triggering your TMJ pain.
The Long-Term Outlook for TMJ
Although TMJ can be a chronic condition, with the right treatment and lifestyle changes, you can live a long life with TMJ. By seeking out help early and addressing the symptoms, you can prevent the condition from worsening and reduce the impact it has on your life. With the right combination of chiropractic, physiotherapy, and other treatments and strategies, you can live a pain-free, fulfilling life with TMJ.
In conclusion, those who suffer from TMJ may wonder how the condition may impact their life expectancy. However, by seeking out treatment and making lifestyle changes, you can live a long and fulfilling life with TMJ. Chiropractic care, physiotherapy, massage therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and relaxation techniques can all provide relief to TMJ symptoms. Remember, it’s important to explore all options and find what works best for you to reduce the impact of TMJ on your life.
