Herbal & homeopathic remedies for Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and muscle disorders

TMJ Disorders
HEALTH HERBS & NUTRITION - REMEDIES - TMJ DISORDERS

· General Description · Symptoms · Causes · Herbal & Homeopathic Remedies · Helpful Dietary Habits · Dos and Don'ts

Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders, commonly called "TMJ," are a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement. We don’t know for certain how many people have TMJ disorders, but some estimates suggest that over 10 million Americans are affected. The condition appears to be more common in women than men. For most people, pain in the area of the jaw joint or muscles does not signal a serious problem. Generally, discomfort from these conditions is occasional and temporary, often occurring in cycles. The pain eventually goes away with little or no treatment. Some people, however, develop significant, long-term symptoms. No matter what school of thought your dentist adheres to, his answer will no doubt be a very long and complicated one. Temporomandibular joint syndrome, or TMJ, is without doubt among the most complex and controversial of all modern ailments. There are controversies abound as to whether it is a muscle and ligament problem or a bone and cartilage problem. Even the causes of TMJ are disputed. Hence, until we have scientific evidence for safe and effective treatments, it is important to avoid, when possible, procedures that can cause permanent changes in your bite or jaw. What is the temporomandibular joint? The temporomandibular joint connects the lower jaw, called the mandible, to the bone at the side of the head—the temporal bone. If you place your fingers just in front of your ears and open your mouth, you can feel the joints. Because these joints are flexible, the jaw can move smoothly up and down and side to side, enabling us to talk, chew and yawn. Muscles attached to and surrounding the jaw joint control its position and movement.
When we open our mouths, the rounded ends of the lower jaw, called condyles, glide along the joint socket of the temporal bone. The condyles slide back to their original position when we close our mouths. To keep this motion smooth, a soft disc lies between the condyle and the temporal bone. This disc absorbs shocks to the jaw joint from chewing and other movements. The temporomandibular joint is different from the body’s other joints. The combination of hinge and sliding motions makes this joint among the most complicated in the body. In addition, the tissues that make up the temporomandibular joint differ from other load-bearing joints, like the knee or hip. Because of its complex movement and unique makeup, the jaw joint and its controlling muscles can pose a tremendous challenge to both patients and health care providers when problems arise.
What are TMJ disorders? The abbreviation "TMJ" refers to the joint but is often used to refer to any disorders or symptoms of this region. Such problems include popping sounds in the jaw, inability to fully open the mouth, jaw pain, headaches, earaches, toothaches, and various other types of facial pain. Disorders of the jaw joint and chewing muscles—and how people respond to them—vary widely. Researchers generally agree that the conditions fall into three main categories: Myofascial pain, the most common temporomandibular disorder, involves discomfort or pain in the muscles that control jaw function. Internal derangement of the joint involves a displaced disc, dislocated jaw, or injury to the condyle. Arthritis refers to a group of degenerative/inflammatory joint disorders that can affect the temporomandibular joint.
A person may have one or more of these conditions at the same time. Some people have other health problems that co-exist with TMJ disorders, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, sleep disturbances or fibromyalgia, a painful condition that affects muscles and other soft tissues throughout the body. It is not known whether these disorders share a common cause. People who have a rheumatic disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis, may develop TMJ disease as a secondary condition. Rheumatic diseases refer to a large group of disorders that cause pain, inflammation, and stiffness in the joints, muscles, and bone. Both rheumatoid arthritis and some TMJ disorders involve inflammation of the tissues that line the joints. The exact relationship between these conditions is not known.

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A variety of symptoms may be linked to TMJ disorders. Pain, particularly in the chewing muscles and/or jaw joint, is the most common symptom. Other likely symptoms include: radiating pain in the face, jaw, neck, or shoulders, or near the ear jaw muscle stiffness (tenderness), limited movement or locking of the jaw, difficulty chewing difficulty opening the mouth (and keeping it open) painful clicking, popping or grating in the jaw joint when opening or closing the mouth, ear and sinus problems (like earaches and hearing problems) A sudden, major change in the way the upper and lower teeth fit together dizziness and severe headache Diagnosis There is no widely accepted, standard test currently available to correctly diagnose TMJ disorders. Because the exact causes and symptoms are not clear, identifying these disorders can be difficult and confusing. Currently, health care providers note the patient’s description of symptoms, take a detailed medical and dental history, and examine problem areas, including the head, neck, face, and jaw. Imaging studies may also be recommended. You may want to consult your doctor to rule out known causes of pain. Facial pain can be a symptom of many other conditions, such as sinus or ear infections, various types of headaches, and facial neuralgias (nerve-related facial pain). Ruling out these problems first helps in identifying TMJ disorders.

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Trauma to the jaw or temporomandibular joint plays a role in some TMJ disorders. However, for most jaw joint and muscle problems, scientists don’t know the causes. For many people, symptoms seem to start without obvious reason. Research disputes the popular belief that a bad bite or orthodontic braces can trigger TMJ disorders. Because the condition is more common in women than in men, scientists are exploring a possible link between female hormones and TMJ disorders. There is no scientific proof that clicking sounds in the jaw joint lead to serious problems. In fact, jaw clicking is common in the general population. Jaw noises alone, without pain or limited jaw movement, do not indicate a TMJ disorder and do not warrant treatment. The roles of stress and tooth grinding as major causes of TMJ disorders are also unclear. Many people with these disorders do not grind their teeth, and many long-time tooth grinders do not have painful joint symptoms. Scientists note that people with sore, tender chewing muscles are less likely than others to grind their teeth because it causes pain. Researchers also found that stress seen in many persons with jaw joint and muscle disorders is more likely the result of dealing with chronic jaw pain or dysfunction than the cause of the condition.

Who is Most at Risk? The following risk factors are associated with TMJ dysfunction. Gender - women seek treatment two times more than men Age - people ages 30 - 50 are most often affected Nutritional or metabolic disorders Grinding teeth, clenching jaw Malocclusion (bad bite) High stress levels

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Treatment usually depends on the type of jaw ailment and TMJ symptoms you are experiencing. Often, a mouthpiece or an adjustment to your bite (the way the teeth come together) is all that is required. The dentist may prescribe painkillers, or recommend heat or ice packs to help soothe the pain. Jaw exercises also help to strengthen the muscles and the jaw. In more extreme cases, surgery is necessary. Herbal and homeopathic remedies can also be very helpful in the overall treatment plan for people who experience jaw tension or TMJ symptoms. Homeopathic treatments such as Causticum, Hypericum perforatum, Ignatia, Kalmia, Magnesia phosphorica, Rhus toxicodendron and Ruta graveolens can soothe and relax strained ligaments in the jaw area. Herbs in a tincture form such as Cramp bark (Viburnum opulus), Lobelia (Lobelia inflata), Passiflora incarnata and Melissa officinalis can also provide safe and natural alternatives to prescription medications.

Ferrum phosphoricum (D6) (Ferrum phos.) is a homeopathic biochemic tissue salt which supports the absorption of iron in the body. The protective myelin sheath which surrounds all nerve tissue needs iron to supply this vital nutrient to the nerve cells it encases. Iron in hemoglobin also helps to keep all body tissue, including the brain, supplied with oxygen. Regular use of Ferrum phos. can help to prevent dizziness, headaches and restlessness and is of great benefit for those who tend to feel irritable, tense and tired.   Magnesium phosphate (D6) (Mag. phos.) is well-known as a homeopathic painkiller, Mag. phos. is also of great benefit to the health of the nerves. It acts as a natural anti-spasmodic and a nerve and muscle relaxant and is also frequently recommended for stress headaches. Lavandula augustifolia (Lavender) is another well-known herb which has made its home in countries all over the world, including Europe and Africa and is also used in Arab medicine.Lavender contains the active ingredients tannins, coumarins, flavonoids, triterpenoids and volatile oil. It is best known for its soothing properties and as a tonic to support the nervous system. Hypericum perforatum (also known as St. John’s Wort) has been traditionally used for centuries to support balanced mood and safely maintain mental wellness and equilibrium. In recent times, clinical studies have confirmed ancient wisdom and Hypericum is one of the most widely studied herbs on the market today. St. John’s Wort has also been shown to support stable mood during the menstrual and premenstrual periods. Passiflora incarnata (also known as Passion Flower) has active ingredients which include flavonoids, cyanogenic glycosides, alkaloids and saparin. Like St John’s Wort, Passiflora has also stood up well to clinical studies which support its traditional usage as a soothing and moderating herb. In modern herbalism, Passiflora incarnata is known as a natural aid for the nerves, supported by clinical trials. Kalium phosphate (D6)  (Kali. phos.) is a homeopathic brain and nerve tonic par excellence as well as an amazing nerve nutrient. Used regularly it helps to calm and uplift the spirit and soothe common nervous tension and everyday stress. Kali. phos. is the most widely recommended tissue salt for soothing worry and distress.  Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm) is prepared from the leaves of the lemon balm plant, which, when rubbed between fingers, release a tart and sweet smell, like lemons.. This herb has been studied for its beneficial effect on the nervous system.

The following nutritional tips may help prevent or reduce symptoms of TMJ dysfunction:   · Eat soft foods high in flavonoids (such as fruits and vegetables) to provide antioxidants to decrease joint pain. · Avoid saturated fats and fried foods as they increase inflammation. · Do not take big bites; rather cut your food into smaller pieces, so you don’t have to overwork your jaw. · Avoid chewing gum – Not only do your jaws get into the habit of chewing, but every time you chew, you tense your jaw muscles and give your temporomandibular joints an exhausting work-out, which can result in pain. · Stay away form extremely crunchy and chewy foods, such as apples, carrots, steak, crusty rolls or toffee-like confectionary. Rather, go for soups, pastas and other easy-to-eat foods. · Avoid caffeinated drinks as caffeine is a stimulant. Drinking tea, coffee or other caffeinated drinks will make you more likely to grind your teeth. · Glucosamine (500 mg three times per day) seems to lessen pain and may help rebuild cartilage in the joint, which helps improve range of motion. Glucosamine is sometimes combined with chondroitin sulfate (400 mg three times per day). Glucosamine is naturally manufactured in the body and scientists know that this simple substance is found in relatively high concentrations in the joints and connective tissues, where its function is to repair cartilage and maintain joint mobility. Although we know that the body can manufacture small amounts of glucosamine, this is not generally sufficient to sustain joint health, which makes supplementation very important. As a supplement, Glucosamine sulphate is derived from the shells of shellfish, crabs and oysters where it is found in high concentrations. Glucosamine is approved for the support of joint health in more than 70 countries around the world and has been the subject of many clinical studies which attest to its benefits. Because glucosamine is naturally occurring in the body it is generally very safe and well tolerated without side effects. · Vitamin C (500 mg two times per day) is also used by the body to make cartilage and may improve range of motion in your joints, including your jaw. Vitamin C rich foods include citrus fruits, blackcurrant, vegetables (broccoli, potatoes), red capsicums and chillies, strawberry, kiwifruit, rockmelon · Calcium (250 mg two times per day) and magnesium (125 mg two times per day) are sometimes suggested to help the jaw muscle relax, especially for relief in the nights. Magnesium interacts with several medications, herbs, and supplements, so be sure to tell your doctor before you take it.

Conservative Treatments Because the most common jaw joint and muscle problems are temporary and do not get worse, simple treatment is all that is usually needed to relieve discomfort. If you think, you have a TMJ disorder... Remember that for most people, discomfort from TMJ disorders will eventually go away on its own. Simple self-care practices are often effective in easing symptoms. If treatment is needed, it should be based on a reasonable diagnosis, be conservative and reversible, and be customized to your special needs. Avoid treatments that can cause permanent changes in the bite or jaw. If irreversible treatments are recommended, be sure to get a reliable, independent second opinion. Self-Care Practices Increasing the blood flow Try to increase the blood flow to the affected area. You may apply moist heat or ice (go with only one). Which will work best for you, you only can decide after experimenting. A usual tip is this: when you feel occasional sharp pain in your jaw points, apply cold packs as the cold will numb your nerves, dulling pain messages that go to your brain. And if you feel a dull, steady ache rather than the sharp pain, heat is better than cold. It will increase the blood circulation to the area and relaw your jaw muscles. Support your jaw You may pick up a mouth guard (kind of those sold in sporting goods stores), soften it in hot water, and then bite down on it to form a better fit in your mouth. It will keep your jaw steady and may temporarily alleviate the pain. Don’t lean Make sure that you-especially your chin-are not leaning over the desk for longer durations throughout the day. As a general guideline for sitting and standing, your cheekbone should not be over your clavicle, and your ears should not be too far in front of your shoulders. Acupuncture Very good evidence suggests acupuncture can treat TMJ dysfunction. Several well-designed trials found that acupuncture could help provide long-term pain relief for this condition. In treating TMJ dysfunction, acupuncturists often find a deficiency of qi in the liver meridian and an excess of qi in the gallbladder meridian. Moxibustion (a technique in which the herb mugwort is burned over specific acupuncture points) may enhance the therapy. Chiropractic Chiropractors and some patients report that manipulation of the TMJ and adjacent areas in the upper spine may improve symptoms of the condition. It is believed, in these cases, that manipulation restores movement to the TMJ.

Craniosacral Therapy This therapy is a very gentle form of bodywork in which a practitioner uses their hands to release restrictions in the craniosacral system (the fluid and membranes surrounding the spine and brain). Although studies are few, anecdotal evidence suggests some people feel improvement after craniosacral therapy. Because there is no single agency that certifies practitioners in this therapy, talk to your provider about the level of training they have received. You can also interview several practitioners before deciding which one is right for you. Mandibular Massage Certain types of massage techniques and chiropractic manipulation may help decrease muscle spasms, provide pain relief, and prevent recurrence of symptoms. Mandibular massage is actually what you need. For this, you have to massage the areas around your jaws to relieve muscle tightness and enhance blood flow to the area. Several times a day, open your mouth, and then rub the muscles by the ears near your temporomandibular joints. Place your forefingers on the sore areas and swirl then around, pressing very gently, until the muscle relaxes. Close your mouth and repeat the massage. Then, in phase two, with a clean forefinger, reach into your mouth until you can feel the sore muscle inside. Pressing firmly with your forefinger, massage on one side, then the other, getting as close to the jaw joints as you can. Finally, in the third phase, massage the muscles on the sides of your neck. Those muscles don’t directly control your jaw, but massaging them helps to reduce tension that contributes to jaw pain. Biofeedback Biofeedback teaches you how to lessen muscle tension through relaxation and visualization techniques. At first, sensors are placed on your jaw, and a machine shows the amount of tension in your muscles. Using relaxation and visualization techniques, you learn to reduce the amount of tension around your jaw while the machine provides instant feedback to guide you. Once you have mastered the technique, you can perform the relaxation and visualization techniques anywhere. Other precautions: Don’t use a pillow; instead use a thin towel rolled up under your neck (to about the thickness of your wrist). Have another towel under your back and a pillow under your knees as sleeping in this position, i.e. on your back throughout the entire night, will be very relaxing to your jaws. Don’t lie on your stomach with your head twisted to one side, as also, never lie on your back with your head propped up at a sharp angle for reading or watching television. Never cradle the telephone between your shoulder and your chin. If you spending a lot of time on the telephone while you are using your hands for other tasks, get a headset. Never carry a heavy shoulder bag with the strap on the same shoulder for extended periods. Do not do work such as painting a ceiling which requires looking up for extended periods consecutively. Do not bite your fingernails or chew a pencil. Remember, when you work your jaws during the day, the pattern is likely to continue in your sleep.

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