Lockjaw, medically known as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, is a condition that can be quite common among athletes, particularly those who engage in contact sports. While it typically begins with a minor discomfort, the impact it can have on an athlete’s performance can be significant. Understanding how this condition develops and the best ways to prevent and treat it can help athletes stay in top form and stay safe.
What Causes Lockjaw in Athletes?
Lockjaw is a condition in which the muscles of the jaw, temporomandibular joint and surrounding areas become tense and lock up, causing stiffness and restricted movement. At the root of the condition is an imbalance in the jaw’s movement and alignment, which can be triggered by a number of factors.
One of the main causes of lockjaw in athletes is a direct injury to the jaw from a blow to the head that can occur in a contact sport such as football, basketball, or hockey. This type of trauma can cause trauma to the jaw and surrounding muscles, leading to TMJ disorder. This is why it is not uncommon to see athletes with lockjaw. In addition, any repetitive activity that puts strain on the jaw joint, such as chewing gum for extended periods of time, can also contribute to this condition.
Why is TMJ Disorder a Concern for Athletes?
TMJ disorder can cause a variety of symptoms that can impact an athlete’s performance. Many people with this condition experience pain, stiffness, and a clicking or popping sound when the jaw is moved. This can make it difficult for an athlete to open their mouth fully, which can cause difficulty in eating, talking, and even in maintaining proper breathing patterns while exercising.
In addition to the physical symptoms, TMJ disorder can also cause anxiety and stress in an athlete due to the frustration of having to navigate around the condition to stay competitive. It can even cause an athlete to begin to avoid certain activities out of fear of triggering an episode of lockjaw.
Preventing Lockjaw in Athletes
Preventative measures are essential to avoiding the debilitating effects that can accompany TMJ disorder. Athletes should make an effort to protect the jaw joint and surrounding muscles from injury. This can be achieved by wearing protective headgear, such as a mouthguard when participating in contact sports. Additionally, athletes should avoid activities that put excessive stress on the jaw joint, such as eating hard foods, chewing gum for extended periods of time, or grinding the teeth.
Strengthening and stretching the muscles of the jaw, neck, and shoulders can help to improve the jaw’s movement and reduce the risk of developing TMJ disorder. Athletes who experience stiffness or pain in their jaw should make an appointment with a physiotherapist to help identify exercises that will help to relieve tension in these areas and improve the jaw’s range of motion.
Treating Lockjaw in Athletes
If an athlete is experiencing symptoms of lockjaw, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the cause of the symptoms and develop a treatment plan. Treatment for TMJ disorder will depend on the severity of the condition and the athlete’s individual needs. Some athletes may benefit from non-invasive treatments such as physical therapy, massage, or the use of a mouthguard.
In more severe cases, athletes may require surgical intervention to realign the jaw joint and reduce the tension in the muscles. While this can be an effective treatment, it should be approached with caution, as it can be invasive and require a significant amount of time to heal. Athletes should be sure to follow their doctor’s instructions closely and allow plenty of time for recovery.
In conclusion
Lockjaw can be a debilitating condition that can have a serious impact on an athlete’s performance. A variety of factors can contribute to TMJ disorder, including direct trauma to the jaw joint and surrounding areas. Preventative measures, such as wearing protective headgear and avoiding activities that put excessive stress on the jaw joint, can help reduce the risk of developing the condition. Strengthening and stretching the muscles of the jaw, neck, and shoulders can also help to improve the jaw’s movement and reduce the risk of developing TMJ disorder. If an athlete does develop symptoms of lockjaw, it is important to seek medical attention in order to develop an effective treatment plan.
