Some health issues are not life-threatening; however, they tend to be chronic. One such issue is Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder. It often causes dull pain that would cause distress around the clock. And as one can imagine, it means significant disability, distress, anxiety, and disturbed sleep patterns. In many cases, doctors might even have trouble identifying its cause. So, the condition remains challenging to treat. Consequently, people are interested in using CBD oil for TMJ pain.(1)
Of course, painkillers may help in TMJ. However, the problem is that they are not able to provide complete pain relief. Another issue with TMJ is the chronicity of the problem. Many people just get tired of taking so many painkillers all the time for relatively benign problems. Of course, if one keeps taking so many painkillers, they would also harm health in multiple ways. Therefore, it makes sense to explore various treatment options.
One can use non-pharmacological means to manage such pains, like massive heat therapy and practising mindfulness. Some may also benefit from acupuncture. There is definitely a role for CBD, as it is not just good for lowering pain but may help in many other ways.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) acts like a hinge, connecting your jawbone to your skull. When this joint is injured or inflamed, it can lead to TMJ disorder, causing discomfort and restricted movement in the jaw.
When conditions begin, people would often start using over-the-counter medications. These medications help reduce pain sensation but often fail to provide complete relief.
Doctors may also prescribe the so-called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Such drugs are good at reducing pain and inflammation. Hence, they might also benefit in many instances. They are especially helpful if the cause of the condition is some temporary inflammation. However, they are less effective if the condition occurs due to neuralgia or other jaw changes.
Definitely, physiotherapy can be of great use in the condition. So, massage may help reduce jaw stress and spasms of the surrounding muscles. Similarly, physical therapy is also helpful in the condition. Physical therapy exercises and techniques can help improve jaw mobility, strengthen muscles, and reduce pain associated with TMJ disorder.
Interestingly, it appears that stress management also helps with the condition. It is because it reduces jaw tightness.
Of course, doctors might also suggest more invasive methods like dental interventions or certain kinds of surgeries. However, invasive methods are better used when all other options have been exhausted. Hence, one must consider CBD use before going for surgical treatment.
There are a few ways in which CBD oil or pens might help the condition. CBD has direct pain-relieving action. Considering that TMJ pain tends to be chronic and blunt, such a remedy might have a place in TMJ pain management. Moreover, in many instances, the tightness of the jaw is due to some local irritation, and CBD oil may help keep things calm.
CBD is also suitable for stress relief and has anti-spastic activity. Studies have proven that CBD may help with spastic pain, especially when it occurs due to stress or specific brain changes. Conditions like TMJ disorders have complex aetiology, and it is pretty likely that CBD may work.
What makes CBD oil or CBD vape pens a good choice is that TMJ disorder requires prolonged treatment. It is not an acute condition but rather a disorder that may last for months and even years. However, continuous CBD use may provide much-needed pain and irritation relief in the condition.
CBD may also help overcome TMJ disorder-related other issues. It may improve sleep and help people sleep better. Similarly, it may also help overcome disease anxiety. Prolonged chronic pain increases the risk of emotional disorders like anxiety and depression. However, using CBD regularly may help stabilise mood and reduce the risk of such severe mental health issues.
CBD oil offers a promising natural alternative for managing TMJ and jaw pain thanks to its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and muscle-relaxing properties. While conventional treatments prescribed by doctors remain essential components of TMJ management, CBD oil can complement these therapies and provide additional relief for individuals seeking alternative remedies with fewer side effects. Combine CBD oil with other non-pharmacological treatments like massage, acupuncture, and physical therapy for a more significant effect.
This article was authored by: Dr. Preet Pal Singh Bhinder.
This article was peer-reviewed by Dr M Mansoor Siddique (PhD). Dr Siddique has over eight years of experience working with CBD and CBD products.
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