Love it or hate it, the cold winter weather is here for a majority of the country.  With this weather shift comes new or increased concerns for people living with TMJ. TMJ suffers can see an increase in symptoms during colder months. Just as your hand and leg muscles shiver and become tense during cold weather, so do jaw muscles.  It may be subconscious reactions to cold weather as your body’s attempt to increase body heat, but it can also put stress on your jaw muscles and increase the TMJ pain you already experience.

Keeping healthy during the winter months can be challenging for many people, but even more challenging for people living with TMJ.  Throughout the cold winter months, how can you manage your jaw pain while also staying healthy?

• Don’t forget cold weather gear – It’s important to retain body heat to prevent the tensing and clenching of muscles and veins that accompany feeling cold. Any time you are outside, remember to bundle up with a scarf, hat and gloves.  Protect your jaw from snow, wind and cold temps by wearing coats with hoods or high collars.
   
• Stay warm, even inside – It’s important to make sure your body temperature is warm even when you’re inside. This might mean turning the thermostat up, using and electric blanket or heating pad, or plugging in a space heater.
   
• Remain active – Staying physically active can help with not only your overall health, but also your jaw pain. Inactivity causes muscles to become weak and tight, contributing to increase pain. By remaining active, your joints and muscles stay loose, strong and better prepared to handle the cold weather and changes in pressure.