How Poor Sleep Posture Worsens TMJ Symptoms

If you struggle with jaw pain, clicking sounds when chewing, or frequent headaches, you may already know you have temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction. But did you know your sleep posture could be making your symptoms worse? Many people overlook how they sleep at night as a contributing factor to TMJ discomfort.
 

Understanding TMJ Dysfunction

TMJ dysfunction involves the joints that connect your jawbone to your skull. These joints help you talk, chew, and yawn. When they become strained or misaligned, you may experience symptoms like jaw pain, muscle tension, earaches, and even neck or shoulder discomfort. While daytime habits like clenching your jaw or poor posture at a desk can worsen TMJ, nighttime habits can be just as impactful.
 

How Sleep Posture Impacts the TMJ

Your jaw and surrounding muscles do not shut off while you sleep. If your sleep posture puts undue pressure on the jaw or neck, it can lead to increased stress on the TMJ and nearby muscles.
 

Here are some common sleep positions and how they may contribute to TMJ issues:
 

• Sleeping on your stomach: This position often requires turning your head to one side, which can strain the neck and jaw. Over time, this asymmetrical pressure can worsen TMJ misalignment.
• Sleeping on your side with your hand under your jaw: While side sleeping may feel comfortable, placing a hand under your jaw or pillow pressure on the side of the face can push the jaw out of alignment.
• Lack of neck support: When your pillow does not support your neck properly, it can cause your head and jaw to shift during the night, placing uneven pressure on the TMJ.

Better Sleep Posture for TMJ Relief

Improving your sleep posture can be a simple but powerful step in managing TMJ symptoms. Here are a few tips:
 

• Try sleeping on your back with a supportive pillow that keeps your head and neck aligned.
• Use a custom pillow designed to reduce jaw and neck pressure.
• Avoid placing pressure on your jaw with your hands or a firm pillow.
• Consider a custom night guard if you grind your teeth, as it can minimize nighttime jaw tension.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

At ReAlign Chiropractic, we understand the complex relationship between posture, spinal alignment, and TMJ health. Through gentle chiropractic adjustments and posture correction strategies, we can help reduce stress on your jaw and surrounding muscles. Addressing spinal misalignment and muscle tension can improve sleep quality and provide long-term relief from TMJ discomfort.
 

Ready to Find Relief from TMJ Pain?

Poor sleep posture is often an overlooked contributor to TMJ pain, but it plays a significant role in how your jaw feels day to day. Making adjustments to how you sleep and seeking professional care can help reduce symptoms and support lasting comfort.
 

If you’re experiencing TMJ pain, contact ReAlign Chiropractic to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you sleep better and feel better. Visit our office in Manhasset, New York, or call (516) 699-1600 to schedule your consultation today.