Definition

The Temporomandibular Joint is the encapsulated, double, synovial joints between the condyles of the mandible and the temporal bones of the skull.
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Causes

TMJ may have a number of causes. The two most common causes are a poor bite, with clenching and grinding of the teeth (bruxism), especially at night, and under stress. Stress management, combined with heat and muscle relaxants may often relieve the symptoms. A correct diet and the proper supplements, with or without a bite adjustment, often solve the problem.

Another cause of pain in the joints of the jaw is rheumatoid arthritis. In this disorder, the symptoms are more severe in the morning. This is not usually the case with TMJ.
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Symptoms

TMJ produces pain in the muscles and joints of the jaw that sometimes radiates to the face, neck, and shoulder. There may also be difficulty opening the mouth all the way, and clicking, grinding, and popping noises occur during chewing and movement of the joint.

After careful examination, the doctor may use techniques such as arthrography, in which an opaque dye is injected into the joint and then viewed with fluoroscopy. There are also other ways to diagnose the problem. Often, the doctor will make a bite pate for the patient to wear at night to prevent clenching of the teeth and compressing the joint and to correct the bite.
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Nutrients

Calcium chelate, 2,000 mg. per day, for proper muscular function and sedation effect and prevents bond softening and relieves stress. Magnesium, 1,500 mg. in divided doses after meals and at bedtime. Vitamin B complex, 100 mg. 3 times per day, is an antistress vitamin. Pantothenic acid (B5), 100 mg. twice per day. Coenzyme Q10, 60 mg. per day, protects during stress. L-Tyrosine (an amino acid), 500 mg. on an empty stomach, helps improve quality of sleep and relieves anxiety and depression. Vitamin B6, 50 mg. at bedtime. Vitamin C, 4,000-8,000 mg. per day, combats stress and is necessary in adrenal gland function Multivitamin and mineral complex, taken as directed on the label (hypoallergenic product is best).
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Herbs

• Ash, prickly, bark
• Dragon root
• Hops
• Lobelia
• Passion flower
• Skullcap
• Valerian root extract

Recommendations

Diet is very important. Avoid high-stress foods: all forms of sugar, all white flour products, all junk foods, candy, colas, potato chips, pies, and fast foods.

The diet should include slightly steamed vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grain products, clear water fish, skinless chicken and turkey, brown rice, and homemade soups and breads.
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Suggestions

Fast at least once a month to give the body and jaws a rest.
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Bibliography

• Prescription for Nutritional Healing, by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., pgs., 300-301.
• Eastern/Central Medicinal Plants, by Steven Foster and James A. Duke, pgs., 184.
• Indian Herbalogy of North America, by Alma R. Hutchens, pgs., 112, 227.
• Taber's Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary, pgs., 1704.

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