The initial goals are to relieve the muscle spasms and joint pain. This is usually accomplished with a pain reliever, anti-inflammatory, or muscle relaxant. Steroids can be injected directly into the joints to reduce pain and inflammation. Self-care treatments can often be effective as well and include: Resting your jaw Keeping your teeth apart when you are not swallowing or eating Eating soft foods Applying ice and heat Exercising your jaw Practicing good posture