Can enthesitis heal on its own?
Oct 18, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, whether hook inflammation can resolve on its own depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases with clear triggers that can be promptly avoided may resolve spontaneously. However, severe symptoms, structural damage, or persistent triggers make spontaneous recovery unlikely, necessitating medical intervention. To promote recovery or prevent flare-ups of hook inflammation, it is important to avoid habitual one-sided chewing and biting hard objects in daily life.
In general, whether TMJ arthritis can recover on its own depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases with clear triggers that can be promptly avoided may resolve spontaneously; however, severe cases involving structural damage or persistent triggers are unlikely to self-resolve and require medical intervention. The details are as follows:
If symptoms of TMJ arthritis are mild—such as occasional slight pain or minor clicking during chewing—and are caused by identifiable short-term factors like excessive chewing or mental stress, the inflammation may gradually subside and recovery may occur spontaneously once hard foods are avoided, emotional relaxation is achieved, and the jaw is given adequate rest.
When symptoms are severe, including significant and progressively worsening pain, restricted mouth opening, frequent clicking, or even joint locking, or when structural issues such as disc displacement or cartilage damage exist, or if triggering factors persist, the inflammation is unlikely to resolve on its own. Without timely treatment, the condition may worsen and require interventions such as physical therapy or medication to relieve symptoms.
To promote recovery from TMJ arthritis or prevent flare-ups, it is important in daily life to avoid unilateral chewing, biting hard objects, maintain emotional stability, and avoid excessive mouth opening. If symptoms arise, applying warm compresses to the jaw joint and reducing strain on the jaw may help alleviate discomfort and support joint recovery.
