01 Mar Could This Really Improve TMJ Health?
If you suffer from TMJ, physical activity may help you find some relief!
TMJ is commonly associated with neck, shoulder, and back pain. Thankfully, daily physical activity has been linked to the prevention and treatment of TMJ symptoms such as these!
What can exercise do for my TMJ?
When the temporomandibular joint of your jaw must bear extra weight due to posture issues or some kind of physical trauma, it is unable to do its job properly. Daily exercise can help prevent poor head/neck posture, improve your body’s overall strength and agility, and therefore help you avoid the misalignment of important bones and joints in your jaw!
Corrective exercises specific to posture have been known to greatly improve TMJ as well. If you are interested in posture-related exercise, speak with a specialist. Also, these types of corrective exercises have helped other individuals who struggle with TMJ.
Some exercises will not be ideal for those who suffer from TMJ, so be sure to consult a specialist before attempting any physical activity apart from your normal exercise routine or what has been recommended by your doctor.
How can I stay active?
The World Health Organization defines physical activity as “any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that results in energy expenditure.”
The Michigan Head and Neck Institute recommends about 150 minutes of physical activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, for individuals ages 17-64. This level of activity encourages bone strength, prevents neck/back pain, and improves posture.
Each of these benefits could greatly improve TMJ symptoms. If you are suffering from TMJ, it is likely that daily exercise will set you up for a faster recovery from TMJ, all while improving your overall health!