Jaw pain Physio tips

 

Jaw pain can be a real bother, but there are some simple things you can try to ease it:

• Rest Your Jaw: Avoid chewing gum or tough foods for a while to give your jaw muscles a break.
• Apply Ice or Heat: Putting an ice pack or warm towel on your jaw can help reduce pain and swelling.
• Massage: Gently massaging the sore area can help relax the muscles and ease tension.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Meds: Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage the discomfort.
• Avoid Hard Foods: Stick to softer foods that are easier to chew to avoid aggravating your jaw.
• Practice Good Posture: Slouching can strain your jaw muscles, so try to sit up straight.
• Stay Relaxed: Stress can make jaw pain worse, so try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.

 

Here’s a summary of common physiotherapy treatments for jaw pain:

• Manual Therapy: Physiotherapists may use hands-on techniques to manipulate and mobilize the jaw joint to improve its function and reduce pain. This could involve gentle stretching or massage of the muscles around the jaw.
• Exercises: Specific exercises can help strengthen and stretch the muscles involved in jaw movement. These exercises may include opening and closing the jaw, side-to-side movements, and resistance exercises using the hands or resistance bands.
• Education: Physiotherapists educate patients about factors contributing to jaw pain, such as stress, teeth grinding, or poor ergonomics, and provide strategies to manage these factors effectively.
• Behavioral Techniques: Relaxation techniques, stress management strategies, and behavior modification may be incorporated to address habits like teeth clenching or grinding that contribute to jaw pain.
• Home Exercise Program: Physiotherapists often prescribe specific exercises and self-care techniques for patients to perform at home to complement in-clinic treatment and facilitate long-term management of jaw pain.

 

Remember, the effectiveness of physiotherapy treatment for jaw pain can vary depending on the underlying cause and individual factors, so it’s essential to consult with a qualified physiotherapist for a personalised assessment and treatment plan.