Apply moist heat to your jaw to relieve sore,
tense muscles related to a
temporomandibular disorder. Do not apply heat to your
jaw if it has swollen after an injury.
Dip a towel in hot tap water or warm a damp towel
in a microwave oven. You may also use a hot pack, electric moist heating unit,
or a heating pad set on low or medium. (Be careful not to fall asleep while
using a heating pad, as you may burn yourself or start a
fire.)
Apply moist heat (no warmer than bath water) to your jaw
muscles 3 to 4 times a day for 15 to 20 minutes each time.
If moist
heat alone does not bring relief, alternate moist heat and an ice pack. Apply
each for 5 to 8 minutes.
Note:
Do not use heat if your jaw is swollen, you have had an injury to
the jaw, you have difficulty sensing pain, or you have poor blood
circulation.
Apply ice to your jaw if there is swelling,
such as from a recent injury.
Apply ice 3 to 4 times a day for 10 to 15 minutes
each time. Do this for the first 3 days.
After 3 days, apply moist
heat, following the same schedule, for 1 week.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here.
