Do you experience pain in your jaw or find it difficult to open your mouth wide or chew food properly? You may be one of the many people who suffer from TMJ-associated symptoms.
While several treatments are available for this condition, some people do not resolve their symptoms using traditional methods.
This article will discuss two alternative therapies—bioenergetics and phototherapy- that can help resolve TMJ-associated symptoms.
In addition, we will explain how LifeWave patches, which are a form of phototherapy, can help improve TMJ- associated symptoms.
TMJ anatomy
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge joint that connects the jawbone to the skull. The TMJ allows you to open and close your mouth, chew food, and speak. It is formed by articulating the temporal bone of the skull and the mandible (jawbone).
TMJ is a complex joint that contains muscles and ligaments. They help to stabilize the jawbone and allow it to move smoothly.
Articulation surfaces
In healthy conditions, the cartilage provides lubrication and shock absorption. This allows for smooth movement of the jaw during chewing or yawning.
Some muscles help control the jaw's movement—the temporalis, masseter, and medial pterygoid muscles.
Ligaments are fibrous bands of tissue that connect bone to bone. In the TMJ, ligaments help to stabilize and protect the joint as it moves.
The TMJ is prone to injury, arthritis, infection, and inflammation due to its complex anatomy and high stress level during various daily activities.
What is TMD?
TMD stands for temporomandibular joint disorder. It is a condition that affects the temporomandibular joint.
It is sometimes referred to as TMJ.
TMD is a complex condition that a variety of factors can cause.
TMD risk factors
Many things can increase your risk of developing TMD. These include:
- Injury to the face, head, or jaw
- Stress and anxiety
- Arthritis in the TMJ
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Poor posture
- Smoking
- Drinking alcohol
- Consuming caffeine
Symptoms associated with TMJ
Symptoms of TMD can vary from person to person. They may include:
- Pain in the jaw, face, or head
- Clicking or popping sound in the TMJ
- Difficulty opening your mouth wide
- Pain when chewing food
- Headache
- Earache
- Neck pain
- Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
- Facial swelling
Diagnosing and treatment
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Your doctor may use a variety of diagnostic tests to determine whether you have TMD. These include:
- A dental CT scan: This gives a detailed view of facial anatomy by taking multiple images from different angles.
- MRI scan: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is used to look at soft tissues of the jaws, such as muscles and cartilage.
- Panoramic x-ray: This can help identify the jaw joint or teeth problems causing TMJ symptoms.
- Muscles tests: These tests can help determine any weakness or tightness in the muscles that control jaw movement.
- Joint examination: Your doctor will examine the TMJ and look for arthritis, infection, or inflammation signs.
Your doctor may also ask you to complete a questionnaire about your symptoms. This can help to identify any factors that may be contributing to your TMD.
Once your doctor has diagnosed you with TMD, they will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Treatment options may include:
- Medications such as painkillers or muscle relaxants
- Physical therapy
- Orthodontics
- Surgery
The best way to treat TMD is by addressing the condition's underlying cause.
Bioenergetics and Phototherapy
Under traditional medicine, an approach to resolving TMJ-related issues is to use pharmaceuticals such as pain medications or anti-inflammatories.
However, the use of drugs can have undesirable side effects. In addition, non-traditional methods such as bioenergetics and phototherapy may help.
Bioenergetics is the use of energy fields to promote healing in the body. Phototherapy is the use of light to stimulate healing. Both of these therapies can be used to help resolve symptoms associated with TMJ.
Bioenergetics for TMJ
Bioenergetics has been shown to be helpful in relieving pain and inflammation. In addition, it can help to relax the muscles and improve blood flow. This can help to promote healing and relieve tension in the jaw joint.
This technique can also be used for other parts of the body that are not working correctly or experiencing pain/discomfort. For example, if you have a headache, bioenergetics can be used to send healing energy into the head and promote pain relief.
How it works
Bioenergetics, life-force energy, chi/qi, or prana is used to restore a body part to normal activity by channeling or sending it into the afflicted region through energy healing.
This is accomplished by the healing practitioner passing their hands over the afflicted region, channelling therapeutic energy into it.
For example, the temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles/tendons and bones can be treated using bioenergetics.
During the session, the patient is asked about the pain history and the intensity of the pain. The practitioner then places their hands over the TMJ, channelling energy into it for some time.
Some patients can feel relief after 20 minutes of bioenergetics sessions. The process can be repeated up to two more times PER SESSION.
Bioenergetics can be used in conjunction with other therapies, but it is not a substitute for medical or surgical care.
Always consult your physician about any pain that you are experiencing and seek appropriate treatment.
Phototherapy for TMJ
A phototherapy is a form of light therapy that focuses on using specific types of light to stimulate healing. It can be used to treat various conditions, including temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ).
In addition, this technique can also be used for other parts of the body that are not working correctly or experiencing pain/discomfort.
Phototherapy can be used in conjunction with other therapies, but it is not a substitute for medical or surgical care.
Low-level laser therapy for TMJ
This type of phototherapy uses infrared light to stimulate healing. It enhances blood flow and reduces inflammation in the treatment area. This can help to promote healing and relieve tension in the jaw joint.
In addition, it increases cell metabolism without increasing the production of free radicals, therefore promoting the healing process.
Laser therapy has various benefits
- It is a non-invasive treatment
- It does not produce any harmful side effects
- It is painless
- The therapy can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient
- It’s suitable for all ages
Like bioenergetics, laser therapy can be used in conjunction with other treatments, but it is not a substitute for medical or surgical care.
Always consult your physician about any pain that you are experiencing.
LifeWave patches for TMJ
LifeWave patches are another form of phototherapy that can be used to treat TMJ-associated symptoms. These patches work by releasing energy directly into the body, which helps to reduce inflammation and pain.
Patches are made of homeopathic components that display low levels of light in the infrared and visible band when warmed by the body's heat.
Athletes, performers, and others who are subject to stress or experience pain can benefit from wearing these patches.
Apart from the symptoms associated with TMJ, LifeWave patches can also be used to
- Enhance sleep
- Increase energy levels
- Improve mood and concentration
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Detoxify
- Give anti-aging effects
- Control appetite
How to manage TMJ at home
There are various ways to manage TMJ-associated symptoms at home. This means there are things to avoid doing and what is expected to be done to achieve relief. You can:
- Take over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen as needed. Note that this is for temporary relief. If the pain persists, it is advisable to visit the dentist.
- Avoid eating crunchy or chewy foods
- Avoid opening your mouth too wide when yawning or laughing
- Maintain good posture and avoid slouching
- Avoid clenching your teeth or jaw muscles
- Eat a balanced diet and minimise alcohol intake
- Rest your jaw as much as possible
These are just some of the ways that you can manage TMJ symptoms at home. Always consult your physician for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusion
If you have been experiencing TMJ-associated symptoms and want to find a way to turn them down that is both effective and non-invasive, bioenergy or phototherapy may be the answer. In addition, laser therapy can help provide relief from pain when used in conjunction with other medicines.
It is important to consult your physician for proper diagnosis and treatment before beginning any self-care regimen at home.
Finally, it is worth noting there are many things we do every day that contribute to our TMJ-related discomforts, such as clenching teeth or jaw muscles or opening the mouth too wide while yawning or laughing. Avoid these habits as much as possible.
In case you need more help with TMJ-associated symptoms, reach out to us now.
