Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ) is a condition that occurs when your jaw and skull joints become damaged or inflamed. This condition can cause a wide range of symptoms including stiffness, pain and difficulty moving your jaw. TMJ can be a frustrating and debilitating condition causing pain and discomfort while performing basic activities, such as talking, eating and even resting. However, one commonly asked question is does TMJ hurt when you are resting?
The answer to this question is yes. Unfortunately TMJ can cause pain and discomfort even when you’re not actively using your jaw. This pain can manifest as a dull aching sensation or a sharp stabbing pain that can make it difficult to relax or get a good night’s sleep. Additionally some people with TMJ may experience muscle spasms which can cause further pain and discomfort while resting. It is important to understand that each person feels pain differently. Some people may experience constant TMJ pain, while others will have TMJ pain at night.
To understand why TMJ can cause pain while resting, it’s important to understand a bit about the condition. TMJ is often caused by factors such as stress, injury, arthritis, or teeth grinding, which can cause inflammation and tenderness in the jaw joint. When this happens, even simple movements such as chewing can cause discomfort. This discomfort can persist even when you’re resting due to the persistent inflammation and tenderness in the joint.
Fortunately, there are several treatment options available that can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ. One of the most effective treatments for TMJ is chiropractic care. A chiropractor can perform adjustments to your neck and jaw to help alleviate tension and reduce inflammation in the joint. Additionally, they can recommend exercises and stretches to help improve jaw mobility and reduce pain.
Another effective treatment for TMJ is physiotherapy. Physiotherapists can work directly with your jaw to help alleviate pain and stiffness in the joint. They can use a variety of techniques such as massage, ultrasound, and hot or cold therapy to help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the joint. Additionally, they can recommend exercises and stretches to help improve jaw mobility and reduce pain.
In conclusion, TMJ can cause pain and discomfort even when you’re resting. This can make it difficult to relax and get a good night’s sleep, which can exacerbate the symptoms of TMJ. However, there are several treatment options available that can help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ. If you’re suffering from TMJ, it’s important to seek professional treatment to help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. With the right treatment, you can reduce the pain and discomfort associated with TMJ and get back to living your life to the fullest.
