TMD Do’s and Don’ts To Get You Through the Holiday Season
When living with TMD, it can be difficult to remember what is beneficial and what can be a trigger for the disorder. While receiving professional help for TMD, we will provide you with methods to cause relief and give a guideline for ways to help you enjoy your daily life. We understand that, during this special holiday time, it can be easy to succumb to the pressures and indulge in an activity that might not be the best to support your TMD issues. We have compiled a list of recommendations to help you remember how to help yourself and what you should avoid.
Things To Do
Think About the Foods You Are Eating
Plan meals before any activities to ensure that you are sticking to a diet that is TMD friendly. Be sure to include soft foods and avoid foods that will irritate or cause discomfort to your jaw.
Be Mindful of Your Posture
During busy and stressful times, it is easy to forget about the proper posture and resort to slouching or hunching over your computer while searching for the best holiday deal. Be conscious of your neck and shoulders, also being sure to pay close attention to your sitting position.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
In any situation, it is important to be mindful of your stress level. Be sure to incorporate deep breathing to encourage a relaxed body and jaw.
What Not To Do
Don’t Bite Your Nails or Other Hard Objects
With the stressors of the holiday season, it can be easy to forget yourself and bite your nails or other hard objects, like pen caps. The constant pressure on your jaw will only lead to discomfort.
Don’t Rest Your Phone Between Your Face and Shoulder
With many of the holiday festivities cancelled this year, it is more likely that you will be talking on the phone to distant friends and relatives while going about your daily activities. When trying to multitask, your shoulder may seem like a great resting place for your phone; however, it can force your jaw into an abnormal position. It is best to stay hands-free either by using speakerphone or a wireless headset.
Don’t Ignore Symptoms
If you are experiencing tremendous discomfort, it is best not to ignore the red flags. Please contact our office so we can work together to get to the root of the problem.
By practicing the “Dos” from the list and avoiding the “Don’ts”, you can be in better control of your TMD therapy and avoid unnecessary pain and strain on your jaw joints this holiday season. At Center for TMJ & Sleep Solutions NW, we help treat patients with TMD and sleep disorders so they can get back to enjoying their lives without pain. Please call our office at (360) 979-1537 or [phoneNumber-Auburn] for more information.