The holiday season is a time of joy, gatherings, and celebrations. However, many people suffer from stress. Unfortunately, stress can lead to or exacerbate various health issues, including TMJ disorders (temporomandibular joint disorders).
Holiday stress and TMJ can affect the joints that connect your jaw to your skull. As stress is a common trigger for TMJ symptoms, the holiday season can become a painful time for those affected.
Understanding the relationship between stress and TMJ can help you manage the symptoms.
Increased Stress and Anxiety
The pressures of shopping, planning, hosting, and attending events during the holiday season can increase stress levels.
Stress is one of the most significant contributors to TMJ disorders because it often leads to teeth grinding (bruxism) or jaw clenching.
Many people may not even realize they’re clenching their jaw throughout the day or night. However, this repeated action can strain the temporomandibular joint, leading to pain and discomfort.
Tension and Muscle Tightness
High stress levels often result in muscle tension throughout the body, particularly in the shoulders, neck, and jaw. This muscle tightness can put additional strain on the jaw joint, leading to or worsening TMJ symptoms. For those already suffering from TMJ, stress-induced tension can make existing discomfort more pronounced.
Poor Posture
Whether from sitting long hours at a desk during the busy holiday work season or lounging on the couch after holiday feasts, poor posture can worsen TMJ pain. Slouching or craning your neck forward can alter the alignment of your jaw and neck, aggravating the temporomandibular joint.
Solutions for Managing Holiday Stress and TMJ
Incorporating stress-relief practices like deep breathing, yoga, and meditation can minimize TMJ flare-ups. Prioritize self-care during the holiday rush to keep anxiety in check.
Moreover, gentle jaw stretches, massages and heat therapy can relax TMJ muscles. However, you must seek a doctor in severe cases.
BOTOX for TMJ is also an option for managing symptoms.
Book Your TMJ Treatment in Golden, CO
The holiday season doesn’t have to be stressful for your jaw. You can reduce TMJ triggers by managing stress and making small adjustments to your daily routine.
Take care of your body and mind; you’ll set yourself up for a more joyful and relaxed holiday experience. If you need treatment for TMJ, call us at (303) 277-9600 and book your appointment with Golden Dental Solutions.Â
