Are there any exercises or natural ways to ease my tmj pain?

Kinesiology: I work closely with a physical therapist who evaluates my patients with TMJ pain. The TMJ is a difficult area to treat due to the fact that pain is created by muscles, bone, cartilage and chewing dynamics. Sometimes, we can identify developed chewing habits that show how muscles are favored to one side or another- much like a bodybuilder who can't straighten his arms out. Pt helps in treatment.

Tmj: How sure are you of your correct diagnoses , there's a difference between TMJ and tmd . You need to be diagnosed by some one who understand the difference . What caused your joint pain, is it your bite , your dental work , trauma , or grinding your teeth , my suggestion don't chew gum , or eat chewy food and take large bite check the internet there are several exercises for your neck and joint.

Physical therapy: Physical therapy- massaging the offending muscles and avoiding things like phone cradling, chewing gum or sleeping on your side or chest.

Yes: Ask your pharmacy for the nearest compound pharmacy and your doctor can prescribe a lotion to apply locally this may help.

One option: I agree with the information provided by dr latif, dr. Faustino, dr. Menendez and dr. Kim. I recommend having this evaluated by an otolaryngologist or oral surgeon to confirm diagnosis. One way to help decrease inflammation and pain is acupuncture. You can discuss this option with your physician.

A few things: Self treat with soft diet, jaw exercises, massage, heat/cold, OTC pain meds. A splint or physical therapy would be next. Occasionally muscle relaxants, biofeedback. Xrays are done for diagnosis. Surgery usually reserved for serious symptoms not responsive to other treatments.