Can Poor Posture Be Causing Your TMJ Pain? Here’s What to Know
Is Bad Posture Related to TMJ Pain?
How Neck Posture Affects TMJ Pain
For many patients suffering from TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) pain, the cause can be complex, involving not only the jaw joint itself but also posture. One common issue that can contribute to or exacerbate TMJ pain is poor neck posture. In this article, we will explore the connection between posture and TMJ pain and how correcting posture can play a crucial role in relieving discomfort.
The Connection Between Posture and TMJ Pain
For patients with a deep bite, proper tooth alignment often requires them to overextend their necks. This compensatory posture allows their back teeth to meet, but it also puts excessive strain on the neck muscles. As a result, these patients may adopt a posture where the neck juts forward, creating tension and imbalance.
Poor posture, especially when the head is positioned in front of the shoulders, adds significant strain to the neck muscles. For every inch that the ear is positioned forward of the shoulder, an additional 10 pounds of perceived weight is added to the neck. This extra load can create muscle tension, leading to pain and even headaches.
How Poor Posture Affects TMJ Symptoms
The misalignment caused by poor posture can lead to a range of TMJ-related symptoms, including:
- Increased jaw tension: The forward neck posture pulls on the muscles connected to the jaw, exacerbating TMJ pain.
- Headaches: The extra tension placed on the neck muscles can cause frequent headaches, which are commonly associated with TMJ disorders.
- Chronic pain: Over time, poor posture can lead to long-term tension and pain in both the neck and jaw.
Correcting Posture to Relieve TMJ Pain
Improving posture can play a significant role in alleviating TMJ pain. By maintaining a neutral head and neck position—where the ears align with the shoulders—the strain on both the jaw and neck muscles is reduced, which can help prevent muscle tension from worsening TMJ symptoms.
Patients with deep bite issues or poor posture should consult with a jaw specialist like Dr. Green to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. This may include:
- Physical therapy to improve posture and strengthen neck and jaw muscles.
- Orthodontic treatment to correct a deep bite, allowing the teeth to align properly without needing to overextend the neck.
- Jaw exercises to reduce tension and improve jaw alignment.
Key Takeaways on TMJ and Posture
Poor posture, particularly in the neck, is a significant factor that can aggravate TMJ symptoms. Over time, forward head posture puts additional stress on the neck and jaw, leading to pain and discomfort. Addressing posture and working with a healthcare provider and dental expert like Dr. Randi Green to correct both posture and bite issues can provide long-term relief for patients suffering from TMJ disorders.
If you’re experiencing TMJ pain, it’s important to assess your posture and consider how it may be contributing to your symptoms. Correcting posture early can prevent long-term complications and provide relief from chronic pain.
