Is your jaw popping, clicking or locking? Do you suffer from jaw pain that makes it difficult to eat, chew and speak? Do you sometimes suffer from headaches? All of the above symptoms could indicate a problem with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ).
It is not uncommon for people with these symptoms to have problems not only with the jaw, but also with some of the postural muscles, resulting in tightness or increased pressure in the jaw. Now that you have a better understanding of how these symptoms relate to what you’re experiencing, what can you do about it?
Introducing Rocabado’s 6×6 Workout Routine. This program was developed to combat the causes and symptoms of TMJ dysfunction. Here’s how to try it yourself:
- tongue resting position. Place the tip of your tongue on the roof of your mouth and press gently on the roof of your mouth.
- Control TMJ rotation. Open and close the lower jaw while gently pressing the tip of the tongue against the upper jaw.
- Rhythm Stabilization Technology. Place two fingers on your chin. Open and close your jaw while pressing your tongue against your palate.
- neck stretch. Lift and lower your chin as if nodding.
- Shoulder Position (Scapular Group). Squeeze your shoulder blades together while lifting and lowering your chest.
- Stabilized head bend (chin tucked in). Bring the chin closer to the neck (creating a “double chin”), then push out again.
If you experience pain during these exercises or experience persistent TMJ symptoms that interfere with your daily activities, please contact a TMJ/TMD specialist near you. Our experts will target your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you live pain-free!
The Athletico Blog is an educational resource written by Athletico staff. Sports bloggers are licensed professionals who abide by the code of ethics set by their respective professional associations. The content published in blog posts represent the opinions of the individual authors based on their expertise and experience. The content on this blog is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice nor should it be relied upon in making personal health decisions.
Peter Batz is a PhD in Physical Therapy with specialties in Orthopedics, Vestibular Therapy, Headache/TMD, Dry Needling, ACL Rehab and Injury Prevention. Peter graduated from Northern Illinois University with a Ph.D. in Physical Therapy. He also completed his orthopedic residency training through Evidence in Motion and is an Orthopedic Certified Specialist (OCS). He strives to restore his patients to their best condition so they can live life to the fullest.
