Zoe Ball’s struggle with TMJ disorder

Celebrity Zoe Ball recently hit the headlines when she opened up about a medical condition that left her enduring painful headaches every morning. Her experience of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, also known as temporomandibular disorder (TMD), is sadly not uncommon – studies show it affects around 5-12% of people. But thankfully help is available.

What is TMJ disorder?

TMJ disorder is a medical condition relating to the temporomandibular joint which is the hinge joint between the temporal bone and the lower jaw.

Common symptoms of the disorder include jaw clenching when the individual is asleep, resulting in headaches when the individual wakes up – as was the case for Zoe Ball. It can also cause pain and tension around the jaw, ears, temples and neck, difficulty fully opening the mouth, the jaw “locking” when the mouth is open, and clicking noises when the jaw is moving.

The simple lifestyle changes that could make a big difference

For many people, TMJ is a temporary issue that eventually goes away without the need for medical intervention. For some, taking steps to reduce stress and improve sleep quality is all that is needed to resolve the issue.

For others, however, the issue can be longer-lasting and it can have a real impact on the individual’s everyday life. If this is the case for you, we recommend making an appointment at YourGP where we can discuss pain relief and anti-inflammatories, as well as a treatment option that might take you by surprise…

The effective treatment you might not have been expecting

Here at YourGP, we use a neurotoxin best known for its use as a cosmetic anti-wrinkle treatment. When administered by a medical professional to target key muscles in the jaw area, it can relax the muscles, easing tension and pain and be a highly effective treatment for TMJ disorder.

Side effects to be aware of

As with any injectable treatment, there are side effects to consider. For example, you may experience some redness and bruising at the site of the injections. It is also important to remember that this is not a permanent solution to the problem – the effects of these injections usually last around 3-6 months and repeat treatments may be necessary.

At YourGP, we’ll find the right treatment for you

The best way to find out if this is the right treatment for you is to book a consultation with one of our expert medical professionals. We’ll give you all the time you need to discuss your symptoms, advise you on lifestyle changes and answer any questions you might have about the treatment.

Don’t let the pain of TMJ disorder continue to have a negative impact on your life. Book your appointment today using our simple online booking system. Or you can email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 381 0322 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.