Temporomandibular Disorders: Having Good Body Mechanics

Topic Overview

Changing body mechanics can help you prevent or treat a temporomandibular disorder (TMD).

• Maintain good posture. Slumping your shoulders or staying in positions in which your upper body is thrust forward (many people do this to relieve back pain) disturbs the natural alignment between your facial bones and muscles.
• Don't sleep on the painful side of your face. Avoid sleeping on your stomach.
• When you sleep, use a single, flat pillow or a specially designed pillow to help keep your neck and head in alignment (ask your health professional about pillows).
• Avoid sitting with your jaw cradled in your hand.