GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) – When we think about sports injuries, broken bones and concussions always come to mind. But TMJ can also be a concern. Dr. Kathi Wilson from the Center for Sleep Apnea & TMJ, our expert, joins us today to talk about sports injuries.
Sports Injuries and TMJ:
- Falls, tackles
- Balls/elbows to face/jaw
- Very common in sports (football, wrestling, basketball, volleyball, soccer, lacrosse,
- hockey, rugby, baseball/softball)
- Can cause a sprain to the jaw joint
- Usually resolves itself with rest/ice
- Can cause a dislocation of the jaw joint
- Most of the time will need intervention-sooner the better
- Can cause a “closed lock” of the jaw, meaning you can’t open even far enough to eat or brush your teeth
- Can cause joint degeneration later in life (delayed onset)
- May notice pain and/or joint noises
- Important to wear a mouthguard if possible during the sport
- Immediate intervention is required
- Non-surgical unlocking procedure
- Can cause joint degeneration later in life (delayed onset)
- May notice pain and/or joint noises
- Important to wear a mouthguard if possible during the sport
Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ
4820 Cascade Rd SE – Grand Rapids
Call or text (616) 454-1482 for an appointment
Virtual appointments available
TMJRescuePlan.com
SleepAndTMJCenter.com
Sponsored by the Center for Sleep Apnea and TMJ
