Temporomandibular Joint(s) Pain
TMJ
Definition
The Temporomandibular Joint is the encapsulated, double, synovial
joints between the condyles of the mandible and the temporal bones
of the skull.
Causes
TMJ may have a number of causes. The two most common causes are a
poor bite, with clenching and grinding of the teeth (bruxism), especially
at night, and under stress. Stress management, combined with heat
and muscle relaxants may often relieve the symptoms. A correct diet
and the proper supplements, with or without a bite adjustment, often
solve the problem.
Another cause of pain in the joints of the jaw is rheumatoid
arthritis. In this disorder, the symptoms are more severe in the
morning. This is not usually the case with TMJ.
Symptoms
TMJ produces pain in the muscles and joints of the jaw that sometimes
radiates to the face, neck, and shoulder. There may also be difficulty
opening the mouth all the way, and clicking, grinding, and popping
noises occur during chewing and movement of the joint.
After careful examination, the doctor may use techniques such as
arthrography, in which an opaque dye is injected into the joint and
then viewed with fluoroscopy. There are also other ways to diagnose
the problem. Often, the doctor will make a bite pate for the patient
to wear at night to prevent clenching of the teeth and compressing
the joint and to correct the bite.
Nutrients
Calcium chelate, 2,000 mg. per day, for proper muscular
function and sedation effect and prevents bond softening and relieves
stress. Magnesium, 1,500 mg. in divided doses after meals
and at bedtime. Vitamin B complex, 100 mg.
3 times per day, is an antistress vitamin. Pantothenic
acid (B5), 100 mg. twice per day. Coenzyme Q10,
60 mg. per day, protects during stress. L-Tyrosine
(an amino acid), 500 mg. on an empty stomach, helps improve
quality of sleep and relieves anxiety and depression. Vitamin
B6, 50 mg. at bedtime. Vitamin C,
4,000-8,000 mg. per day, combats stress and is necessary
in adrenal gland function Multivitamin and mineral complex, taken
as directed on the label (hypoallergenic product is best).
Herbs
TB
- Ash, prickly, bark
- Dragon root
- Hops
- Lobelia
- Passion flower
- Skullcap
- Valerian root extract
Recommendations
Diet is very important. Avoid high-stress foods: all forms of sugar,
all white flour products, all junk foods, candy, colas, potato chips,
pies, and fast foods.
The diet should include slightly steamed vegetables, fresh fruits,
whole grain products, clear water fish, skinless chicken and turkey,
brown rice, and homemade soups and breads.
Suggestions
Fast at least once a month to give the body and jaws a rest.
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