Tips For Managing TMD During The Summer
Are you concerned about experiencing a TMD flare-up during the summer months? The summer is a time where many people adopt the motto “anything goes” and live every day to the fullest. People are enjoying longer days, cookouts with friends, day trips, time off from work, and vacations. For patients who experience TMD, it can be tempting to put your restrictions aside and enjoy all the summer has to offer. We would not recommend this; however, we know that flare-ups can happen at any time. We wanted to share some tips to help you survive the summer if you should experience a TMD flare-up. Read on to learn these tips.
Enjoy Your Summer
We know that it can be hard to avoid certain summer favorites when dealing with continuous TMD related symptoms. Passing up a juicy steak or a loaded burger at your next cookout can be a challenge. We want to share some tips to help you get through the summer free of discomfort:
Stay Away From Difficult To Eat Foods
We know that barbeque foods are a summer staple. As delicious as they might be, we recommend staying away from tough cuts of meat that require extra chewing. We also recommend cutting other foods, like corn on the cob, to make them easier to eat. Slow cooked meats, such as pulled pork, are an excellent choice as well as softer desserts, such as ice cream or berries.
Enjoy the Warm Temperature
Warm temperatures can help your jaw feel loose. If you are experiencing jaw tenderness, you can take advantage of a summertime favorite and take a dip in a heated pool or jacuzzi to help relax your body and muscles.
Stay Hydrated
Warmer days and more time spent outdoors calls for extra hydration. It is easy to become dehydrated when you are busy enjoying the outdoors, which leads to discomfort in your jaw joints. Be sure to add extra glasses of water to your routine this summer.
Please let us know if you feel you need extra support or have questions about managing your TMD during the summer. If you are located in or near the Auburn & Silverdale, WA area we look forward to hearing from you soon.
