Similar to the symptoms of arthritis, TMJ has become a relatively common diagnosis primarily due to increased awareness of the disorder.   The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is where the jaw articulates with the skull.  Signs of jaw problems typical of TMJ include:  clicking or grating noises, stiffness, localized pain, headache or pain extending to the neck, ear or teeth.  Jaw movement may be limited or irregular.  The face may look asymmetric.

Just as in other joints, the TMJ joint contains a cartilage disk that can wear out or become displaced.  Factors that encourage TMJ syndrome are muscle tension, jaw misalignment, improper dental fixtures, improper tooth development, scleroderma and arthritis.  The most common cause is stress because it leads to teeth clenching and grinding and often a subsequent degradation of the important cartilage in the joint.

Conventional treatment involves the use of bite plates, which keep the jaw in proper alignment and minimize grinding.  Physical therapy, including tongue exercises, ultrasound and manipulation, are also used.

The natural treatment of TMJ focuses on three aspects of the disorder:  optimizing the health of the cartilage in the joint, reducing inflammation, and reducing pain.

CARTILAGE in the TM joint is often degrading due to the misalignment of the jaw.  Taking a supplement like glucosamine sulfate with chondroitin sulfate will usually make a difference in respect to the mobility and pain reduction.  You  might also consider other supplements that support cartilage health such as collagen or shark cartilage.

MSM has a powerful anti-inflammatory affect that works well in the cases of most inflammatory  conditions, including TMJ.  It also enhances the absorption of other nutrients taken with it.  You can also use herbs such as devil’s claw, curcumin, and boswelia -  they all have a clinically proven inflammation reducing affect.

PAIN for TMJ can be reduced with a number of different nutritional supplements.  The homeopathic remedies arnica and Hypericum help to reduce pain.  Hypericum in particular is beneficial for reducing nerve pain.  They are available in both oral as well as topical preparations.

Other ways to help TMJ syndrome include the  use a hot or cold pack over the jaw area.  Sleep on your back and maintain proper posture while you are awake. Avoid chewing on tough food or large pieces of food.  Do not chew gum.  Some people find it helpful to maintain a diet of soft foods and liquids until the muscles and joint heal.

Dietary therapies are aimed at helping the body to deal with stress and rebuild the joint.  Eat foods that are rich in calcium, magnesium and B vitamins including whole grains, brown rice, fermented dairy products, fish, fruit and vegetables.

Eat asparagus, eggs, garlic and onions, which contain sulphur, for rebuilding connective tissue.  After the jaw is healed chew on apples and carrots to strengthen the joint.  Avoid foods that decrease the body’s ability to deal with stress like sugar, white flour, candy, junk food, alcohol and caffeine.

The following list of supplements can be used for TMJ syndrome.  Many supplements must be taken for a period of several weeks or months before relief is seen.  Adult doses are given.  (CLICK SUPPLEMENT NAME FOR PRODUCTS).