Stress and Jaw Pain
Soreness and jaw pain can be the result of stress for many people. Stress is the outcome from how your body reacts to and then manages demanding or adverse circumstances, but continuous stress can demonstrate itself in physical ways. Clenching or grinding your teeth because of stress will put additional strain on your jaw muscles and then increase the pressure on the two TMJ jaw joints.
You could feel some jaw pain when you are stressed. The jaw and stress have an incredibly unique bond. Your jaw pain could be a direct result of your stress. You could experience not only jaw pain but muscle pain, toothaches, or headaches from stress as well. Managing your stress can help reduce and alleviate these discomforts.
Some Suggestions to Help Reduce Your Stress
Begin by identifying what your stressors specifically are. Document the reoccurring things in your day that cause your feeling of stress.
* Try avoiding the stressor altogether or modify your situation – A good start is your schedule. Stress increases when you are running late. Prepare earlier for situations that you know will be stressful. Create goals and priorities that are obtainable. Recognize what you have accomplished. Learn to say No if it will overload and stress you. Finally, simply ask for help.
* Alter your response – If you cannot avoid the stressor, then attempt to change how you react to it. Proactively choose your response versus being reactive. Take a deep breath and focus on creating some space between the stress trigger and your reaction.
* Accept when things are out of your control – Do not let anger hamper your actions. Teach yourself to just let it go and then sit down and make a list of what you are grateful for. It will be a pleasant surprise.
* Live healthy – Make a calculated and deliberate effort to get on a consistent eight-hour sleep schedule. Regular exercise will boost your brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters called endorphins. The exercise does not have to be demanding. You can start by walking for 30 minutes at a comfortable pace for 3 to 5 times a week.
* Find your way to deliberately relax – Unavoidable stress can be kept in balance with interests that will help your mind relax. Listening to music, developing a hobby, meditating, performing abdominal breathing, mindfulness or yoga will all help to abate the tension and give your mind a positive focus. The activity you chose does not matter if it refocuses your attention on something more calming.
How long will the jaw pain persist from the stress? Flare-ups can last a couple of days to a several weeks. Symptoms of a TMJ jaw joint flare-up can include pain, which could be constant or intermittent. Consult with your dentist about your pain, they may suggest a physical therapist.
Consider a Physical Therapist for Relief
If your jaw pain continues, a physical therapist can help address the jaw pain. Through different techniques such as an ultrasound, a massage, manipulation, and dry needling, physical therapy can relief the stress and help to:
* Reduce your jaw pain and the headaches.
* Decrease any neck pain you might have.
* Minimize the locking of your jaw.
* Improve your range of motion with your jaw.
* Return you to your normal activities and decrease any dietary restrictions.