Lockjaw (temporomandibular joint- TMJ) is a medical condition in which there is difficulty in opening the mouth properly or fully. There could be pain and stiffness in the mouth, which could vary from person to person while some may have mild to moderate pain, others might experience severe pain. This condition itself is quite harmless, but it could be a pointer of some other serious ailment.
Swelling of soft tissues in the mouth could advance the development of Lockjaw. Tissue swelling in the jaw due to the wear and tear of the muscles inside the mouth could also lead to lockjaw. Other things, which could aggravate the ailment, are teeth grinding, stress and poor diet. Given below are some easy natural cures, which will give relief from lockjaw.
Best Natural Cures For Lockjaw:
1. Soft Diet
Switching over to soft diet can give relief from pain triggered by TMJ. The pain flares up by eating hard food or due to more chewing. Eat food that can be swallowed easily and requires less chewing.
Soups and juices are good alternatives. Ensure that the diet is rich in minerals and proteins so as to help the body regain internal strength. Try to give less stress to the jaw by consuming soft and easily chewable food.
2. Exercise
The head – sliding exercise is quite beneficial, as it aids in improving jaw movement. It stretches the jaw a bit, as it eases the movement. To do this exercise, you need to sit with the back rested fully on a high back chair. Keeping your mouth closed, spread the thumb away from hand and extend the index finger of one of the hands.
Place the web of your hand in front of the chin. Slowly let your chin slide backward opening your mouth a bit. The lower portion of the jaw should move underneath the upper jaw. Try this exercise 5 times for best results.
Simple Home Remedies For Lockjaw
Herbal Remedies For Lockjaw
3. Massage
Neuromuscular massage is a remedy, which provides respite from lockjaw pain. However, it has to be done by certified professionals. This therapeutic remedy uses trigger points to reduce pain.
It increases the flow of blood in the muscles and hence increases the oxygen flow, which in turn gives quick respite. It will not only help to relax muscles, but also helps in reducing stress.
4. Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy sessions are very useful in controlling Lockjaw symptoms. The therapist will guide you through a number of jaw movement and strengthening exercises.
Moreover, regular practise of these workouts will help to avoid future reoccurrences. The exercises are specially designed by keeping in mind your medical condition and are very effective as they give long-term relief.
5. Cold Or Hot Packs
Both cold and hot packs are the most effective and famous remedy that will give immense relief from pain associated with lockjaw. Applying ice packs on the jaw will give instant relief from pain.
Similarly, hot packs like hot bags or moist warm towel, when applied on the jaw are very beneficial to control pain. Apply either of these methods for at least 10 minutes three times in a day for effective results.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
