Lockjaw, medically known as trismus, describes a limited ability to open the mouth. It arises from spasms in the jaw muscles. While a typical mouth opening ranges from 40 to 60 millimeters, individuals with trismus may find their opening restricted to 20 to 35 millimeters or less. Muscle stiffness can stem from various underlying issues affecting the jaw.
Immediate Relief Techniques
When experiencing trismus, several gentle, at-home methods can provide temporary relief from jaw stiffness and discomfort. Applying a warm compress or moist heat to the affected jaw area can help relax tense muscles and increase blood flow. Moist heat, such as a warm, damp towel, can be applied for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This warmth helps soothe the muscles and may reduce spasms.
Gentle massage of the jaw muscles also offers a pathway to easing tension. Using fingertips, apply light, circular pressure to tender or tight areas. This technique can help to loosen the jaw and improve muscle flexibility.
Incorporating gentle jaw exercises can further aid in restoring mobility. Begin by slowly opening and closing the mouth as wide as comfortable. Lateral jaw stretches involve moving the lower jaw to the left and then to the right. A passive stretch can be performed by placing a thumb on the upper teeth and an index finger on the lower teeth, gently guiding the lower jaw downward. These exercises should be performed without causing pain, and stopping if discomfort occurs. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can also help manage associated pain and inflammation.
Professional Treatment Options
If at-home remedies are insufficient or trismus is severe, professional medical interventions can provide relief. Healthcare providers may prescribe medications like muscle relaxants to ease jaw spasms and anti-inflammatory medications, including corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation around the temporomandibular joints (TMJ).
Physical therapy plays a significant role in improving jaw mobility. A physical therapist guides patients through specific jaw stretching and mobilization exercises designed to increase range of motion. Manual therapy techniques, involving hands-on manipulation, help to gently increase movement and alleviate pain. Therapists may also utilize modalities such as ultrasound therapy or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to relax muscles.
For severe muscle spasms, injections may be considered. Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections into jaw muscles can relax them, reducing tension and pain. While not FDA-approved for TMJ, it is used for clenching relief. If trismus is linked to dental issues like temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD), dental interventions may be necessary. These include oral splints or mouthguards to alleviate jaw pain and protect teeth. In severe cases, surgical options like arthrocentesis or arthroscopy might address joint issues or remove scar tissue.
Preventive Strategies
Adopting proactive strategies can help reduce the likelihood of trismus developing or recurring. Managing stress effectively is an important preventive measure, as stress can contribute to jaw clenching and muscle tension. Relaxation practices like deep breathing or meditation can help alleviate overall body tension, including in the jaw. Consciously relaxing the jaw throughout the day, ensuring teeth are not clenched, also contributes to prevention.
Maintaining good posture is another important habit for jaw health. Forward head posture, where the head juts in front of the shoulders, can strain the neck and jaw muscles, contributing to jaw pain and dysfunction. Proper posture involves aligning the head over the spine, with ears positioned above the shoulders, which reduces undue stress on the temporomandibular joint. Adjusting workstations ergonomically and taking regular movement breaks can support better posture.
Dietary adjustments can also play a role in prevention. Avoiding hard, chewy, or crunchy foods can reduce strain on the jaw. Opting for softer foods allows the jaw to rest and can prevent muscle fatigue. Refraining from habits like excessive gum chewing or nail biting can prevent overexertion of jaw muscles. For individuals who grind their teeth (bruxism), wearing a custom-fitted mouthguard at night can protect the teeth and reduce jaw strain.
When to Seek Medical Help
While some cases of lockjaw may resolve with home care, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. It is advisable to seek medical attention if jaw stiffness or pain persists or worsens despite trying at-home remedies. Severe pain that interferes with daily activities like eating or speaking also warrants a doctor’s visit. Difficulty chewing, swallowing, or maintaining oral hygiene due to limited mouth opening should prompt consultation.
Other concerning symptoms include facial swelling, fever, or signs of infection in the jaw or surrounding areas. If trismus develops suddenly after a jaw injury, dental procedure, or trauma, prompt medical assessment is important to rule out complications. Early intervention can prevent potential long-term issues, such as chronic pain or nutritional deficiencies, and ensure proper diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause.