For runners and athletes in Bend, Oregon, dealing with temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues can be a major challenge. Symptoms of TMJ include jaw pain, difficulty chewing or swallowing, ear pain, and difficulty in opening or closing the jaw. Custom TMJ relief options can help provide runners and athletes in Bend with relief from these painful symptoms. In this article, we’ll go over what TMJ is, some of its common causes, and how custom TMJ relief options can offer relief to runners and athletes in Bend.
What is TMJ?
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. It allows you to move your jaw up, down, side to side, and front to back. When this joint is not functioning properly, it can lead to TMJ disorder. This can cause pain in the jaw, the ear, the head, and even the neck. It is easily diagnosed through a physical examination.
What Causes TMJ?
There are many different things that can lead to TMJ. Stress, grinding teeth, and certain types of arthritis, as well as injuries, can all cause the joint to stop working properly. In connection to running and other sports, poor posture and lack of neck and upper back strength can cause a misalignment in the jaw, leading to TMJ. Tennis, baseball, and football players are at increased risk for this type of injury because of the movements of their sports.
Custom TMJ Relief for Runners and Athletes in Bend
Custom TMJ relief options offer a more effective solution for runners and athletes in Bend. Custom night guards are often used to reduce the symptoms of TMJ. These devices hold the jaw in place and reduce stress on the joint. Custom-made splints can also be used to improve alignment and reduce tension in the jaw. Speaking to a TMJ specialist in Bend, Oregon can help determine which option is best for you.
Massages and therapy can also be beneficial and provide relief. This approach focuses on stretching and exercise to strengthen the jaw muscles and engage proper posture. Appropriate warm-up and cooling down routines must be followed when running and participating in sports, since incorrect posture and lack of muscle strength can lead to aggravating the condition.
Finally, corrective bite-related dental treatments, such as reshaping or oral appliances, can be used to correct the underlying alignment issues that cause TMJ. A knowledgeable dentist in Bend can determine if either of these treatments is appropriate for your situation.
Treating TMJ Pain Through Lifestyle Changes
Treating TMJ pain in Bend can also be achieved through making lifestyle changes. Improving posture while sitting, in addition to keeping the mouth relaxed and not grinding the teeth, can reduce stress on the jaw joint and help with pain. It is also helpful to avoid foods that are hard to chew or hard to swallow.
Stretching the upper back, breathing deeply, and stress reduction can also help with TMJ. It is also important to remember to take breaks when running and doing other high-impact sports to allow the jaw to rest. Using helpful tools, such as foam rollers, to reduce the side effects of long-distance running can also be immensely beneficial to those with TMJ.
Conclusion
TMJ can be especially challenging for runners and athletes in Bend. The best course of action for dealing with this condition is to seek a TMJ specialist in Bend, Oregon, who can help determine the most effective custom TMJ relief option. Making changes to your lifestyle and warm-up and cool-down routines while running and participating in sports can also be beneficial to those with jaw pain. With these custom TMJ relief options, runners and athletes in Bend can find relief from the painful symptoms of TMJ.