TMJ Pain and other symptoms catch you off guard on a regular day and often reach an extent where it becomes difficult to perform even the most basic day-to-day activities. While TMJ Disorder presents differently in different patients, we do understand that not everyone has immediate access to a specialist or a healthcare provider who understands something as complex. So, till the time you can see a TMJ Specialist in Mumbai, you can perform some light muscle release techniques at home to gain some relief –
Masseter Massage – The masseter is a muscle located in your cheek. It is quite involved in causing TMJ-related pain. Applying light pressure to your cheek area can help provide some relief from TMJ Pain.
Temporalis Massage – This is the muscle located on the head. When your temporalis is in constant contraction or is overworked, you experience TMJ-related pain. You can relax this muscle by applying some light pressure around your head with your knuckles.
Neck Massage – A major muscle of your neck is the sternocleidomastoid, which, when massaged, helps relieve TMJ-related ear pain.
Hot Water Fomentations – This helps in the relaxation of muscles, providing some temporary relief from TMJ Pain.
While these can be quite helpful in TMD Management, one must always be aware of the kind of movements they should and should not do in terms of this condition.
Any kind of aggressive movements or exercises, like forceful mouth opening, opening and closing exercises, side-to-side movements, constant chewing on rubbery stuff, and other such activities, should not be performed without the prescription of a TMJ Specialist. This is because heavy, strainous movements of the jaw and neck muscles without proper guidance can often cause more damage to your underlying condition. These aggressive jaw movements can overwork your jaw and jaw muscles, leading them to be tired and irritated.
A good TMJ Doctor will take into consideration the causative factors for your disorder before customizing a treatment plan for you. Once you have a diagnosis, you can perform exercises that have been prescribed by the specialist based on your specific condition.