TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders are a painful and chronic condition that affect the joints, muscles, tendons, and bones where the upper and lower jaw meet. The TMJ is a ball and socket joint with a disc between it. The joint is used almost continuously throughout the day whenever the jaw is moved to bite, chew, talk, and even yawn.
TMJ disorders are sometimes referred to as myofascial pain dysfunction. TMJ disorders can lead to stiffness of the jaw – sometimes preventing a person from opening his or her mouth without a great deal of pain. Other symptoms of such disorders include headaches, ear pain, bite plate problems, dizziness, and ringing in the ear.
There are several ways the pain of TMJ disorders is treated. These treatments range from medication to jaw rest to surgery. One treatment for TMJ disorders that is receiving increased attention is TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) therapy. With TENS therapy, a small electrical impulse is delivered to the muscles involved in the movement of the jaw. These electrical impulses allow the jaw muscles to relax. Further, increased blood flow to the area allows the jaw to relax, restoring better function and relieving pain.
One reason TENS therapy is a popular option for TMJ sufferers is because it eliminates the need for pain medication. Some TMJ sufferers report pain ranging from mild to severe. Pain medications prescribed for such conditions can range from aspirin and ibuprofen to strong muscle relaxants such as diazepam. Many people either do not want to take medication or suffer from uncomfortable side effects.
While there are several other treatment options for TMJ, not all work on all sufferers. Therefore, it is no wonder that a person would want to exhaust all other options of pain relief before agreeing to cortisone injections or surgeries that may or may not relieve their pain.
Along with TENS therapy, hot and cold treatment have been effective in relieving the pain associated with TMJ disorders. Heat and ice therapy have been shown to reduce muscle tension and decrease spasms in those suffering from TMJ disorders.
Non-drug related treatments are especially important for those who suffer from TMJ disorder. While sometimes these disorders clear up with medical intervention or on their own, many times it is a chronic condition that can last a lifetime. Since a lifetime of pain medication is something most people would like to avoid, electro therapy such as TENS and hot and cold treatment are good choices. These options reduce pain and symptoms without drug therapy, expensive orthodontics or surgery that may or may not cure the condition.