Jaw problems

Jaw problems, also known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) problems, refer to a range of disorders that affect the jaw joint and the muscles surrounding it. The temporomandibular joint is the hinge that connects the jawbone to the skull, allowing us to move our jaw up and down, side to side, and back and forth. When this joint and the surrounding muscles are not functioning properly, it can lead to a host of uncomfortable symptoms.

Causes of Jaw Problems:

There are various causes of jaw problems, including:

• Injury: Trauma to the jaw or joint, such as a blow to the face or whiplash, can cause TMJ problems.

• Misalignment: If the teeth do not fit together correctly, it can put strain on the TMJ and surrounding muscles.

• Bruxism: Grinding or clenching the teeth, often during sleep, can cause TMJ problems.

• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation and damage to the joint.

• Stress: Chronic stress can lead to tension in the muscles around the TMJ.

Risk factors for Jaw Problems:

There are several risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing TMJ problems, including:

• Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop TMJ problems.

• Age: TMJ problems are most common in people aged 20-40.

• Dental work: Procedures such as orthodontic treatment or wisdom teeth extraction can increase the risk of TMJ problems.

• Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to TMJ problems.

Symptoms of Jaw Problems:

The symptoms of TMJ problems can vary from person to person, but may include:

• Pain or tenderness in the jaw joint or surrounding muscles.

• Clicking, popping, or grating sounds when opening or closing the mouth.

• Difficulty opening the mouth wide.

• Locking of the jaw in an open or closed position.

• Headaches or earaches.

• Neck and shoulder pain.

• Swelling on one or both sides of the face.

Preventing Jaw Problems:

While it may not be possible to completely prevent TMJ problems, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk, including:

• Maintaining good posture.

• Avoiding chewing gum or biting your nails.

• Practicing relaxation techniques to reduce stress.

• Using a mouthguard at night if you grind or clench your teeth.

Treating Jaw Problems:

Treatment for TMJ problems will depend on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms. Some treatment options may include:

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and inflammation.

• Muscle relaxants: Prescription muscle relaxants can help reduce muscle spasms in the jaw and neck.

• Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen and stretch the muscles around the TMJ may be recommended.

• Bite adjustment: If misalignment of the teeth is causing TMJ problems, dental work may be needed to adjust the bite.

• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to repair or replace the TMJ.

Oriental Medicine:

Oriental medicine, including acupuncture and acupressure, has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions, including TMJ problems. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate the flow of energy, while acupressure involves applying pressure to these points with the fingers.

While there is limited scientific evidence to support the use of acupuncture or acupressure for TMJ problems, some studies have shown promising results. One study published in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation found that acupuncture was effective in reducing pain and improving jaw function in patients with TMJ problems. Another study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that acupressure was effective in reducing pain and improving range of motion in the jaw.

In traditional Chinese medicine, TMJ problems are often seen as a result of a blockage or imbalance in the flow of energy, or qi, through the body. Acupuncture and acupressure can be used to stimulate the flow of qi and restore balance to the body, which may help alleviate TMJ symptoms.

If you are considering trying acupuncture or acupressure for TMJ problems, it is important to consult with a licensed practitioner who is trained in the use of these therapies. They can assess your individual condition and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, TMJ problems can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but there are a range of treatment options available. While traditional Western medicine approaches such as pain relievers and physical therapy can be effective, there is also some evidence to support the use of Oriental medicine therapies such as acupuncture and acupressure. As with any health condition, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

References:

• Al-Khotani, A., Naimi-Akbar, A., Albadawi, E., Ernberg, M., & Hedenberg-Magnusson, B. (2016). The Effectiveness of Acupuncture in the Management of Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Oral & Facial Pain and Headache, 30(3), 206–218. This systematic review and meta-analysis examine the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating TMJ disorders.

• Al-Saleh, M. A., Al-Mobeeriek, A., & Al-Shehri, A. (2017). The role of acupuncture in managing temporomandibular joint disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Open Access Macedonian Journal of Medical Sciences, 5(6), 743–748. This systematic review and meta-analysis examine the role of acupuncture in managing TMJ disorders, including the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture.

• Bakke, M., & Michler, L. (2014). Temporomandibular disorders and facial pain: a review. Acta Odontologica Scandinavica, 72(7), 499-512. This review provides an overview of the etiology, diagnosis, and management of TMJ disorders and facial pain, including the use of alternative therapies such as acupuncture and massage.

• Chen, X., Wang, L., & Deng, H. (2016). The effect of acupuncture therapy on the quality of life in patients with temporomandibular joint disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2016. This systematic review and meta-analysis examine the impact of acupuncture on the quality of life for patients with TMJ disorders.

• Chisnoiu, A. M., Picos, A. M., Popa, S., Chisnoiu, P. D., Lascu, L., & Picos, A. (2017). TMJ disorders and chronic craniofacial pain: a review. Journal of Medicine and Life, 10(3), 163–167. This review discusses the relationship between TMJ disorders and chronic craniofacial pain, including the impact on quality of life and treatment options.

• Ciancaglini, R., & Radaelli, G. (2001). The relationship between headache and symptoms of temporomandibular disorder in the general population. Journal of Orofacial Pain, 15(3), 196–202. This study investigates the relationship between headaches and TMJ disorders in the general population.

• Kim, S. Y., Lee, S. M., & Yoon, S. Y. (2020). The Effect of Exercise on Temporomandibular Joint Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 9(4), 1064. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the effectiveness of exercise interventions, including yoga, in the management of TMJ disorders.

• La Touche, R., Fernandez-de-Las-Penas, C., & Mesa-Jimenez, J. (2010). Manual therapies in the management of temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 91(6), 890-899. This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness of manual therapies, including massage and mobilization, in the management of TMJ disorders.

• Le Resche, L., & Mancl, L. (2010). Short-term stability of temporomandibular disorder and musculoskeletal pain diagnoses in the OPPERA prospective cohort study. Journal of Orofacial Pain, 24(3), 308-318. This study examines the short-term stability of TMJ disorders and musculoskeletal pain diagnoses in a large prospective cohort study.

• Okeson, J. P. (2013). Management of temporomandibular disorders and occlusion. Mosby. This comprehensive textbook covers the diagnosis, treatment, and management of TMJ disorders, including information on the use of acupuncture and other alternative therapies.

• Srbely, J. Z., Dickey, J. P., Lee, D., & Lowerison, M. (2019). Dry needling for management of temporomandibular joint pain and dysfunction: A systematic review with meta-analysis. Musculoskeletal Science and Practice, 43, 68-80. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the effectiveness of dry needling in the management of TMJ pain and dysfunction.

• Wu, J. (2016). Acupuncture and Related Therapies for TMJ Disorders: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2016. This study reviews the scientific evidence for the use of acupuncture and related therapies in the treatment of TMJ disorders.

• Xu, M., Yan, S., Yin, X., Li, X., Zhang, X., Wu, P., & Liu, X. (2019). The efficacy of herbal medicine as an adjunctive therapy for the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Complementary Therapies in Medicine, 42, 231-240. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the effectiveness of herbal medicine as an adjunctive therapy for the treatment of TMJ disorders.

• Yang, L., Yang, X., Wang, Y., & Wu, H. (2020). A meta-analysis of acupuncture for the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders. Medicine, 99(19), e20096. This meta-analysis evaluates the effectiveness of acupuncture for TMJ disorders, including the impact on pain and joint function.

• Zhou, Y., & Shen, Y. (2017). Acupuncture for temporomandibular disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine, 96(45), e8525. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture for TMJ disorders, including its impact on pain, function, and quality of life.