Try These Lifestyle Hacks for a Happier, Healthier Jaw

When you suffer from temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, getting relief from the pain can become a major priority. But unfortunately, there isn’t always a whole lot you can do. Pain pills only work so well, and physical therapy and neuromuscular orthodontics work well but may take time. If you are looking for ways to get immediate relief or lessen the amount of discomfort your TMJ disorder symptoms cause you, try these lifestyle tips to help create a more comfortable jaw, naturally.

Exercise Yes, you may get exercise at physical therapy, but adapting a regular exercise routine to your lifestyle is a great way to stay healthy, extend your life and, yes, even lessen your TMJ disorder symptoms. How? Because exercise reduces stress, strengthens the body and makes it less susceptible to the pain of TMJ disorder.

Eating Well Eating well doesn’t just mean eating healthy food - it's eating food that makes you feel good and that doesn’t make your TMJ disorder symptoms worse. Avoid very crunchy or chewy foods, and take smaller bites so you aren’t straining your jaw to open. Furthermore, eating a diet rich in vitamins that lower inflammation can directly improve TMJ disorder symptoms.

Rest Sleep may be the most underrated activity you can do for your TMJ disorder symptoms. When you feel rested, you are more relaxed and in a better mood - that means you can handle whatever life throws at you a whole lot better, and reducing stress is a key component to reducing TMJ disorder symptoms.

To learn more about how you can improve your TMJ disorder symptoms naturally, give Dr. George’s office a call at 724-220-2347.