Can you get arthritis in your jaw?

Arthritis is a common condition in adults over the age of 65. It is so common, in fact, that according to the CDC, over 58 million adults in the United States suffer from some form of arthritis. Arthritis causes pain, reduced mobility, and weakness in the joints of the body, most commonly in the hands, as well as weight-bearing joints such as the hips and knees. However, arthritis can affect any joint in your body, including the jaw.

What causes arthritis in your jaw?

• Cartilage degeneration — The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, occurs when the cartilage between the joints begins to degenerate. This happens because our cartilage grows thinner as we grow older. Osteoarthritis of the jaw can happen on one or both sides of the jaw, when a combination of cartilage degeneration and overuse causes the bones in the jaw to rub against one another.

• Immune system issues — Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that affects the immune system. It causes the immune system in our bodies to attack the healthy tissue between our joints. This causes tenderness, stiffness and pain when chewing.

• A skin disorder — Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that affects the skin, causing inflammation and irritation. However, roughly 30% of people with psoriasis also suffer from psoriatic arthritis. If left untreated, psoriatic arthritis of the jaw can cause irreversible damage.

How can physical therapy help with arthritis of the jaw?

The sooner arthritis of the jaw is diagnosed and treated, the less chance there will be of permanent damage being sustained by the jaw. According to a study by the European Journal of Rheumatology, over 80% of patients were able to successfully manage their symptoms after the use of nonsurgical measures that included physical therapy. 

Physical therapy for arthritic patients is designed to not only reduce the pain and discomfort caused by arthritis, but also to increase the mobility and flexibility of the joints, and to increase muscle strength, preventing further damage.

If you suffer from arthritis of the jaw, Excel Sports & Physical Therapy is ready and able to help. Our team of licensed physical therapists can custom-tailor a therapy program to fit your specific needs. 

Contact our team today for more information about how we can help address your arthritis or to schedule an initial appointment.