The classic clenching of your teeth as you drive your head through while either doing a snatch or the clean and jerk. The clenching might go unnoticed for some time, however, after a series of lifts, each one getting heavier and heavier, of course, there comes a slow onset of Jaw pain.

The Anatomy of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a hinge and sliding joint that allows the complex movement such as chewing and talking. Dysfunction of the TMJ can cause severe pain and lifestyle limitations such as pain on chewing or even headaches.

Of course there is a lot more to the anatomy of the TMJ, however, we can cover that in more depth in future articles or you can go read up about it if you would like more information. Currently though, what you really want to know is what can you do for your TMJ.  

The important stuff What can you do?

Using the good old lacrosse ball in the side of the jaw can be good, although this isn't for the faint-hearted because of how intense it is. Therefore, pressing into the outside portion of the jaw with your fingers is a good alternative whilst opening and closing your mouth.

Stabilisation exercises using resistance from your hand is also a good idea. Placing one hand against the jaw, apply some light force against the jaw, pushing your jaw back into your hands. Repeat this on either side. Then place your hand underneath your jaw and repeat what you have just done. The last resistance exercise is to open your mouth and resistant yourself from closing it.

The last exercise that you can do is a release of the pterygoid muscles that are on the inside of your mouth. To perform this, you will need to slide your index finger between your teeth and the gum next to your cheek. Once your fingers reaches the point where your wisdom teeth are, find the soft spot between your teeth and your cheekbone at the very back of your mouth and press into this. You will know that you are in the right spot if it is sore, and almost causes your eyes to water. Furthermore, to increase this open and close your mouth. Remember though this is intense so be careful.

If pain persist consult your healthcare professional

Take home message

Don’t let Jaw pain rule your life.