The journey towards welcoming a newborn comes with joy and excitement, but also various physical adjustments. One such change might be the experience of Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD) or TMJ. But what do TMJ and pregnancy have in common? The Bend Headache Center offers comprehensive insights for expecting mothers.
Understanding TMJ
What is TMJ?
TMJ is a condition that affects the joints connecting the jaw to the skull. This joint, known as the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ), can lead to pain, fatigue, and unpleasant symptoms due to inflammation, misalignment, or mechanical issues. The Bend Headache Center specializes in providing non-surgical and drug-free solutions to patients afflicted with this condition.
Symptoms of TMJ
The symptoms vary, including discomfort or pain in the jaw, headaches, difficulty chewing, jaw locking, and more. If you’re pregnant and experiencing these symptoms, your hormonal changes could be contributing to the development or exacerbation of TMJ.
TMJ and Pregnancy
The Connection
During pregnancy, the body increases its production of a hormone called Relaxin. This hormone, aptly named for its role in relaxing the ligaments in the body in preparation for childbirth, can also loosen the ligaments around the jaw joint. The lax ligaments can then lead to TMJ, especially in women who already have a predisposition for this condition.
Management of TMJ During Pregnancy
At the Bend Headache Center, we advocate for non-invasive treatments to ensure the safety of both mother and baby. We propose oral appliance therapy, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes to alleviate the symptoms of TMJ during the pregnancy journey.
Treatment Available at Bend Headache Center
Oral appliance therapy and physical therapy are our primary treatment solutions for TMJ, especially for pregnant women.
Oral Appliance Therapy
This entails custom-made mouth appliances resembling nightguards. The device reduces stress on the jaw joint and alleviates pain.
Physical Therapy
Exercises designed to strengthen the jaw joint and surrounding muscles can be beneficial. They help restore optimal function and reduce discomfort, without the need for medication or surgery.
Preventive Measures
A holistic lifestyle can play a significant role in managing TMJ during pregnancy. Nutritious diets, proper posture, stress management, and regular low-intensity physical activity might greatly contribute to symptom management. Remember, at the Bend Headache Center, your wellness is our priority.
