Claire Pearson struggled to force a smile as she chatted with a coworker during a holiday luncheon. But every time she opened her mouth to speak or chew, agonizing pain shot through her jaw. I don't know how much longer I can live this way, she despaired.
All her adult life, Claire had suffered with chronic jaw pain caused by temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, inflammation of the joints on the sides of the jaw due to injury or strain.
Talking and chewing were excruciating for Claire. Even small movements of her jaw during sleep would cause shooting pain and jolt her awake. If she opened her mouth wide-say, to bite into an apple or sing her favorite Christmas carol—she sometimes feared she wouldn't be able to close it again.
Over the years, Claire's pain evolved into blinding migraines that forced her to miss work and family activities while she lay in bed for 24-or more-hours.
Her doctors prescribed medicine to manage the pain, and she even tried Botox injections in her temples and jaw, which brought some relief, but didn't feel like a sustainable long-term solution. I wish I could find a natural way to end my jaw pain for good, Claire thought, feeling hopeless.
When the TMJ pain started to radiate from her jaw to her neck and upper shoulders, making it almost impossible to turn her head, Claire worried she had developed a spinal health issue. She saw a chiropractor, who said the problem was muscle tension and suggested stretching exercises. Massage therapists, dentists and doctors had mentioned the same in passing, but it was hard for Claire to believe simple stretches could ease such severe pain. But, desperate, she decided, I guess it's worth a try.
A free miracle cure
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
"Help me get along with my family"
Our relatives have a talent for pushing our buttons this time of year, which is why we asked experts for simple ways to defuse conflicts fast
"Valerian root helped me sleep again!"
After years of chronic insomnia that left her feeling groggy, Nicole Dunn took matters into her own hands to find a natural remedy - soon enough, she discovered a tea that changed everything!
Heart health made easy!
As we spend more time cozied up indoors these days, it's easy for our activity levels to dip.
Relief from hand and wrist pain
Cozying up with knitting or a puzzle is a fun way to pass time. But small, repetitive hand movements can trigger joint and tendon pain.
How to stop grinding your teeth overnight
Grinding your teeth at night (sleep bruxism) causes wear and tear on your pearly whites.
Stay steady on your feet
Fallen leaves, rain and, soon, ice and snow. Now that \"slippery season\" is officially here, maintaining good balance is more important than ever.
Look camera-ready in a flash
'Tis the season for snapping pics! These simple tricks will help you look and feel your best when striking a pose.
Her fashions bring joy & confidence to women with disabilities!
After watching her beloved Aunt Emma struggle with her cancer diagnosis, Lady Natasha Fines became passionate about creating an adaptive clothing line. And before she knew it, Lady Natasha was helping hundreds of women feel more like themselves again!
Bring-a-dish holiday sides
Traveling for Thanksgiving? Try our easy recipes that will be a perfect addition to any loved one's buffet
Melt up to 9 lbs a week
Inspired by new research! Discover trendy soups and smoothies that build muscle and shred fat