Long-time BBC Radio 2 broadcaster Zoe Ball Recently revealed on Instagram. that she suffers from a painful jaw condition that “wakes up most days with terrible headaches from tension and jaw clenching”.
The condition the hair is exposed to affects it. temporomandibular joint (TMJ). Although Ball referred to the condition as “TMJ” in his post, the condition actually has a medical name. Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD). It often causes headaches, cramps and clicking within the jaw.
TMD is comparatively common, affecting as much as 12% of the population – Although all continents have differences, with South America The highest prevalence is 47%..
The TMJ is a joint on either side of the skull that gives movement between the mandible and the temporal bone of the skull. It is controlled by muscles and is utilized in talking, facial expressions and chewing. Because of its use in multiple processes, it's prone to overuse and injury – resulting in TMD.
One of the principal causes of TMD is bruxism (clenching or grinding your teeth). This can occur throughout the day or while sleeping. around 22% of the population experiences bruxism – although there are also significant regional variations, with North Americans The highest prevalence of sleep bruxism (affects about 31% of individuals).
Other causes of TMD include: Erosion And Incorrect configuration The discs that cushion the jaw move – leading to clicking and popping. There may additionally be cartilage throughout the joint. Damaged by arthritis. TMD is often seen. Women over 50 years of age.
Trauma to the joints from falling or playing contact sports may cause TMJ. In fact, the study shows Between 38-57% People who've TMD have a history of trauma to the jaw. Contact sports players (reminiscent of boxers). Very high rate TMD's – up to 77% in some cases.
About TMD. Twice as common In women – although men who develop the condition experience symptoms. young age in comparison with women.
It's not entirely clear why TMD is more common in women, but researchers have suggested some possible mechanisms. Studies have shown this. Women create more stress. of their TMJ in comparison with men, which can partially explain the upper incidence. Researchers have also suggested that hormones reminiscent of Estrogencould have a job within the situation.
There can be one Genetic link to develop TMDs – but this seems to not be the one reason. Whether an individual with the TMD gene develops the condition is determined by whether or not they have had previous injuries to the joints, their hormone levels and lifestyle.
Some studies have also linked TMD to certain occupations, e.g Musician, Dentists, Office workers And working people Most in-demand jobs. Research also suggests this is feasible. Work related stress May be There is also a reason – Although more research is required to prove this link.
Symptoms of TMD
Many different symptoms can indicate TMD. gave The most common There are headaches, jaw clicking, popping or closing with pain, limited range of Mouth movementsmuscle tenderness, Dizzinessin addition to pain which will radiate behind the eyes, in the faceI'm down Neck, shoulders and back.
Antonio Gilliam/Shutterstock
One of the the explanation why TMD is so painful is that Nerves in this region are highly sensitive. There can be evidence that fascia (the connective tissue that wraps muscles and bones) can be involved in TMD. Fascia is The second major number of nerves In the body, after the skin, so the pain might be excruciating.
Imaging studies show that there are changes within the nerves that sense pain in individuals with TMD. It shows nerves. Increased sensitivityin addition to changes of their structure that affect the muscles they control. People with TMD also show Changes in brain regions which reduces pain. These functional changes are related to pain duration, intensity, and unpleasantness.
People with TMD may additionally experience Extensive central nervous dysfunction – Along with nerves that control other body functions. This could also be one reason why individuals with TMD usually tend to have the condition. such as IBS.
Administrative powers
For many individuals, the symptoms and pain of TMD will go away on their very own – especially if the trigger (reminiscent of stress) Identification and treatment.
Pain may also be controlled with painkillers (reminiscent of paracetamol or ibuprofen). You will too. Eat soft food Or avoid chewing gum to scale back pressure on the TMJ. For more severe pain and symptoms, stronger prescription medications (eg Benzodiazepine, Amitriptyline or Gabapentin) could also be helpful in determining the underlying cause.
In more serious cases, you might be given Splints or night guards To help stabilize the jaw and reduce stress on the TMJ. These treatments might be very useful.
Botox can also be used. In cases where muscles are the first cause or source of pain. This will help reduce the stress that the muscles are putting on the TMJ. However, Botox Not effective In all cases, A study suggests that 15% report no improvement. Cognitive behavioral therapy may also be useful in helping. Pain and negative thoughts.
Surgical treatment is a final resort, often performed in cases where TMD is attributable to changes in oral bite mechanics. Approx 5-10% of cases Surgery shall be required. This everlasting surgery replaces the cartilage disc with cartilage. ear or Proximal muscles. People who've had surgery show good symptom improvement.
TMD could be a distressing condition – but for most individuals, the pain is just temporary. If you discover that your symptoms last greater than a number of days, it is sensible to have them evaluated by knowledgeable.