Essential Oils for TMJ Pain — Do They Really Work?

If you are interested in natural medicine, you might already be using essential oils for various purposes. You might even be thinking about trying them as a method to relieve the pain of TMJ disorder (TMD). But do they really work, or are they a waste of time and money? This blog post shares some facts that you should keep in mind as you are deciding how to treat your TMD.

Which Essential Oils Might Help with TMJ Pain?

There is evidence to suggest that the following essential oils may help to reduce TMJ pain:

• Lavender is known for its mild calming and sedative effects. It might be able to reduce stress-related bruxism (teeth grinding), which in turn may help to relieve TMD symptoms.
• Chamomile can also promote a calm state of mind. It even has some anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce discomfort in your jaw joint and the surrounding tissues.
• Rosemary oil has been used for a long time as a remedy for various types of musculoskeletal pain.
• Eucalyptus may be able to block the nerve signals that cause TMJ-related pain.

Downsides of Using Essential Oils

Many people have found a degree of success in using essential oils as a remedy for TMD. However, there are some caveats that must be acknowledged:

• Essential oils do not address the root cause of TMD. Although they may be an effective way to reduce pain, professional treatment is still necessary if you want to optimize your results and enjoy long-term relief.
• Essential oils are not tightly regulated. It is wise to research various essential oil brands and choose one that has a reputation for producing high-quality products.
• Allergies and irritation may occur. Some people have allergic reactions to certain essential oils, while others have found that topical application causes skin irritation.

Finding Lasting Relief from TMJ Pain

If you decide to use essential oils for your TMD, they should be viewed as a supplement to professional treatment, not a replacement for it. It would be best to visit a qualified practitioner who can evaluate your symptoms and recommend your next steps. For example, you might be a candidate for cranial osteopathy or BOTOX injections.

Although there is nothing wrong with using essential oils, you should maintain reasonable expectations and pair them with treatments from a qualified medical expert!

Meet the Practice

At the Institute for Non-Surgical Orthopedics of Fort Lauderdale, we are proud to feature a large team of highly skilled specialists. We possess in-depth knowledge of musculoskeletal conditions, and we offer numerous treatments that may help to provide long-lasting relief from TMJ disorder. If you would like to learn more about how we may be able to serve you, contact us at 954-563-2707.