“Baby, it’s cold outside.” That’s a typical refrain when temperatures drop. But as the mercury plummets, so does the ability to keep our bodies flexible and comfortable. In the winter, people are more prone to developing jaw locking or temporomandubular joint disorder (TMJ) due to the cold. While it may be tough to avoid the winter chill, there are things you can do to protect your jaw and keep comfortable during cold weather.
What Causes Jaw Locking in Cold Weather?
Cold weather affects our bodies in multiple ways. Our body conserves heat by decreasing the circulation to the extremities, including the jaw. This increases muscle tension in the jaw and can lead to stiffness and possible jaw locking. Additionally, cold, dry air can cause inflammation and increase the risk of aches and pains throughout the body, including the jaw. In comparison to warm weather, cold temperatures make it more difficult for the body to remain flexible and can exacerbate TMJ symptoms.
Ways to Stay Comfortable in Cold Weather
Here are some techniques to help keep your jaw limber and comfortable in the cold:
Use Heat Therapy
Heat therapy can help to relax the jaw muscles, eliminate stiffness and improve blood circulation. Apply a hot pack or electric blanket to the jaw and surrounding areas for about 15-20 minutes. If you have a warm, moist towel handy, wet it, wring it out and microwave it for one minute. Wrap the towel around your jaw and sinus area and let it sit for a few minutes. You can also take a steamy shower to relax the muscles.
Massage the Jaw
Gently massage your jaw with your index and middle finger. Start in the center of your jawline and work outward towards the ear. Massage in a circular motion, using gentle but firm pressure. This self-massage can help to relax the muscles and relieve tension caused by both cold weather and TMJ.
Practice TMJ Exercises
There are a number of exercises that can help improve the flexibility of your jaw and reduce the discomfort of locking during cold weather. Start by opening and closing your mouth as wide as possible. Do this for 3-4 reps of 15. Wiggle your jaw side to side in a single, fluid motion. Then, position your thumb or index underneath your chin and attempt to close your mouth while resisting the jaw with your fingers. Hold this for 10 seconds and release. Repeat 5 times. These exercises can help to increase the range of motion of your jaw and decrease the likelihood of stiffness and locking.
Dress Warmly
When heading out into the cold weather, it is important to dress warmly. Protect the jaw against the cold by wearing a scarf around your neck and mouth. Avoid heavy coats that can add extra weight to the neck and shoulders and avoid wearing tight, constricting jackets that can increase the tension in the jaw. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and try to reduce stress as it can exacerbate TMJ symptoms.
When to Seek Help
If you’re experiencing jaw locking due to the cold and nothing is providing relief, it may be time to seek help. A medical professional can perform an assessment and recommend treatments to help with the locking and other TMJ symptoms. Oral appliances, stress management techniques, and physical therapy or massage can all help reduce pain and improve the movement of the jaw.
In Conclusion
Frigid temperatures in the winter can cause jaw locking and TMJ symptoms. To stay comfortable in the cold, it is important to dress warmly and use heat therapy. Gently massage the jaw and practice TMJ exercises to improve flexibility and reduce discomfort. If the symptoms of jaw locking persist, it may be time to seek help. Take care of yourself when heading out into the bitter cold, and remember the best way to stay comfortable is to keep your jaw relaxed.
