TMJ...A Common Cause of Headaches & Dizziness!
Reference:APTEI TMJ Self-Study DVD/ Book Program
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is one of the most used, yet ignored joints in the body.
The TMJ should be evaluated for all patients who report of…
- headaches (especially in the temporal region)
- upper cervical pain and stiffness
- dizziness
- local pain and clicking in the TMJClinicians don’t regularly evaluate the TMJ since it is often not a patients primary complaint, when in fact it may be the primary source of the patients symptoms.
Extremely valuable instructions to give a patient with a “hidden” TMJ disorder
- Avoid chewing heavy meats, nuts, raw carrots etc.
- Avoid taking big bites into burgers, apples etc.
- Do not chew gum, pen, necklace, etc.
- Avoid intentionally clicking the jaw
- Avoid habitually clenching teeth together
- Stop nail biting
- Avoid prolong slouching and the forward head posture
- Wear mouth guard at nights if prescribed by dentist / or else see a dentist
- When yawning, support the bottom jaw
- Sit up tall and maintain upper cervical flexion, especially when eating
Posted on: August 19, 2003Categories: TMJ
