NCTV Episode 119

Continuing with the series of bitesize health tip videos which can be found here on my YouTube Channel, this episode includes:-

  • Common Conditions
  • Typical Symptoms
  • Main Causes
  • Self-Help Tips
  • Professional Help

Transcript

If you’d prefer to read the content within, rather than watch the video, then feel free to read the transcript, as follows:-

Hello and welcome to NCTV Episode 119 which is all about jaw issues and how you can help them.

So jaws, not the shark, we use them every single day but rarely think about them until they start to hurt. But before we move on, there is a more fancy technical term for the jaw which is the temporomandibular joint or TMJ for short – just so you know what it is when you hear people referring to it.

The jaw itself is basically a small but mighty hinge joint that lets you chew, talk, yawn, and pull dramatic shocked faces. But when it goes wrong, you’ll know about it.

So what kind of things can go wrong?

One of the most common conditions is simply called TMJ Disorder, which is a bit of a catch-all term for pain, clicking, popping, or locking of the jaw.

Then there’s bruxism, which is a fancy way of saying teeth grinding or clenching, it often occurs at night or when you’re stressed. Constant grinding can leave you with sore muscles in the jaw as well as neck, shoulder and facial tension, headaches, earache and even chipped teeth.

You might also hear about disc displacement, where the little cushion inside the joint slips out of place, causing that tell-tale click or even jaw locking.

Other possibilities include myofascial pain syndrome which is basically tight, overworked jaw muscles.

And, in longer-term cases, osteoarthritis of the TMJ, where wear and tear stiffens the joint.

What causes all of this?

Stress is a big one, many people clench without even realising. Poor posture, especially the “tech neck” we get from looking down at screens, can add tension to the jaw. Old dental work, injuries such as a knock or whiplash, or even habits like chewing gum constantly can also play a part.

I’ve mentioned a few of these already but some of the signs to look out for include pain or tenderness around the jaw, difficulty opening wide, clicking or popping sounds, headaches, earache, and even dizziness.

A fun fact for you now: the TMJ is one of the most frequently used joints in the body and it moves thousands of times a day, so it’s no wonder it complains sometimes!

And a bit of a not-so-fun fact for you: TMJ problems can sometimes mimic toothache or ear infections, which is why they’re often misdiagnosed.

So what can you do about it?

The good news is there’s plenty you can do to help yourself, for example:-

  • You can apply heat or ice packs for sore muscles.
  • Try gentle jaw stretches such as opening slightly and moving it from side to side
  • Try to avoid extreme yawns.
  • Reducing chewy foods like tough meat, giant baguettes or gum.
  • Practising relaxation techniques if stress is a trigger.
  • Watch your posture. Keep your head balanced over your shoulders and not leaning forwards too far
  • And also, if you grind your teeth, talk to your dentist about a night guard which are like a gum shield.

If pain does persist, be sure to see the right professional, start with your dentist to check your bite and teeth. Your GP can rule out other issues.

And of course, an osteopath like me can assess the joint and help with reducing strain on the muscles and joints around the jaw, neck, and upper back by releasing tension, improving movement and posture, and easing those knock-on headaches, whilst also guiding you with exercises to keep things moving freely.

So, if your jaw’s been clicking like a dodgy door hinge, don’t just grin and bear it. A few small changes and the right treatment can stop it from becoming a real pain in the… jaw.

That’s it for this week’s “bite”size bit to help your health flourish. Until next time, keep smiling – but maybe not too wide!

See you next time!