Swirvo
01-16-2003, 01:24 AM
I have TMJD and my doctor made me a splint, I'm not sure what kind it is. I have severe tinnitus and extreme muscle tension in and around the jaw area, limited opening, clicking, and grinding.
I've been wearing my splint for about 4 days now and all the muscles are spazzing out it seems like. Will the muscles begin to relax once my jaw gets used to the new position? It's also making my tinnitus alot worse but I suspect thats with the increased muscle tension with altering the jaw. How long does it normally take until the muscles settle?
What are some things I can do to ease the muscle tension? Hot packs, cold packs or something? How do muscle relaxant medications work? I currently take xanax regularly and it seems to help some with the spasms but only temporarily.
Thanks,
Marcus
I've been wearing my splint for about 4 days now and all the muscles are spazzing out it seems like. Will the muscles begin to relax once my jaw gets used to the new position? It's also making my tinnitus alot worse but I suspect thats with the increased muscle tension with altering the jaw. How long does it normally take until the muscles settle?
What are some things I can do to ease the muscle tension? Hot packs, cold packs or something? How do muscle relaxant medications work? I currently take xanax regularly and it seems to help some with the spasms but only temporarily.
Thanks,
Marcus
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Cymy Sue
01-16-2003, 05:45 AM
Hi Marcus,
Welcome to the Board. Muscle tension is always present with TMJD or so it seems. I just started wearing a splint (again) after 10 years. (I've been in some kind of treatment on & off for 25 years.)
What kind of splint are you wearing?
I was in splints & orthodontics from 1977 to 1992. After an open joint surgery in 92, I was told that splint therapy would not help me. I continued to believe this due to my Surgeons advice until a couple of months ago. I started reading this Board and checked into advancements that had beem made in splint therapy and decided it was worth a try.
My joints are pretty much destroyed due to surgical procedures and long term TMJD. My Dentist prescribed a "posterior muscle repositional splint", told me that due to the damage in my joints, it was the only thing I could wear and the only type that he and others that have been researching Splints, believe might possibly help and not make things worse.
I have not had any increase in pain or spasms. (I've been wearing it a little over 3 weeks). I am noticing some subtle changes. I do not wake up with a headache everyday. I am able to open wider and talk better.
My constant roaring tinnitus has started to fluctuate.
Sometimes, louder for short periods, but some days, gone all together. This is the way the tinnitus started, so I hope this is a sign that it's starting to go away.
I have tried muscle relaxants in the past and they did not do anything, but make me feel drugged. Klonopin was precribed for me several years ago because my face was drawing to one side really bad. It has almost stopped this problem.
In the past, I was put into splints that caused increased pain and symtoms. My Dentist does not believe this should happen. He says discomfort to start with, usually means that the splint is too thick or not the right kind.
Marlene, a long time board member, wore an "Anterior Repositional Splint", and says that her TMJ problems are pretty much gone. (She calls herself, the resident success story). You should read some of her posts, she's very knowledgeable.
I was out of the "Splint Therapy" loop for so long, I'm having to play catch-up. I'm learning from this board, doing a lot of my own research and from my Dentist that using the correct splint for each individuals condition is the best treatment available, right now. However, I see that a lot of people may not be getting this kind of individualized care.
My TMJD is almost as bad as it can get( with the exception of those who have defective implants). I was dumped into "Pain Management" 5 years ago after my last TMJ surgery and told that nothing else could be done. I asked for complete "joint replacements" last May and was told that due to multiple surgeries, scar tissue, extensive nerve damage, muscle involvement, eye, ear and nasal problems, I "WAS NOT" a candidate for any more surgeries and that staying medicated was my only option. This opinion came from the 2 top OS's in my area. I did not want to live "MEDICATED".
One more thing that I have done that I think really helps with the tension and muscle spasms is Massage Therapy. I've been seeing a lady (on & off for about 3 years) who is trained to work with TMJD and this has helped tremedously. When it's really bad, I see her every week, when it eases up, I see her as needed.
I hope this info helps and I think I would check with whomever is doing your splint therapy and ask about the increased spasms and tinnitus.
Good Luck,
Cymy Sue
P.S.
I've always been told to use (ice or heat) which ever works best. However, I've learned that if you have joint damage and bad spasms, usually heat is best and I've been told that moist heat is the better.
[This message has been edited by Cymy Sue (edited 01-16-2003).]
[This message has been edited by Cymy Sue (edited 01-16-2003).]
[This message has been edited by Cymy Sue (edited 01-16-2003).]
Welcome to the Board. Muscle tension is always present with TMJD or so it seems. I just started wearing a splint (again) after 10 years. (I've been in some kind of treatment on & off for 25 years.)
What kind of splint are you wearing?
I was in splints & orthodontics from 1977 to 1992. After an open joint surgery in 92, I was told that splint therapy would not help me. I continued to believe this due to my Surgeons advice until a couple of months ago. I started reading this Board and checked into advancements that had beem made in splint therapy and decided it was worth a try.
My joints are pretty much destroyed due to surgical procedures and long term TMJD. My Dentist prescribed a "posterior muscle repositional splint", told me that due to the damage in my joints, it was the only thing I could wear and the only type that he and others that have been researching Splints, believe might possibly help and not make things worse.
I have not had any increase in pain or spasms. (I've been wearing it a little over 3 weeks). I am noticing some subtle changes. I do not wake up with a headache everyday. I am able to open wider and talk better.
My constant roaring tinnitus has started to fluctuate.
Sometimes, louder for short periods, but some days, gone all together. This is the way the tinnitus started, so I hope this is a sign that it's starting to go away.
I have tried muscle relaxants in the past and they did not do anything, but make me feel drugged. Klonopin was precribed for me several years ago because my face was drawing to one side really bad. It has almost stopped this problem.
In the past, I was put into splints that caused increased pain and symtoms. My Dentist does not believe this should happen. He says discomfort to start with, usually means that the splint is too thick or not the right kind.
Marlene, a long time board member, wore an "Anterior Repositional Splint", and says that her TMJ problems are pretty much gone. (She calls herself, the resident success story). You should read some of her posts, she's very knowledgeable.
I was out of the "Splint Therapy" loop for so long, I'm having to play catch-up. I'm learning from this board, doing a lot of my own research and from my Dentist that using the correct splint for each individuals condition is the best treatment available, right now. However, I see that a lot of people may not be getting this kind of individualized care.
My TMJD is almost as bad as it can get( with the exception of those who have defective implants). I was dumped into "Pain Management" 5 years ago after my last TMJ surgery and told that nothing else could be done. I asked for complete "joint replacements" last May and was told that due to multiple surgeries, scar tissue, extensive nerve damage, muscle involvement, eye, ear and nasal problems, I "WAS NOT" a candidate for any more surgeries and that staying medicated was my only option. This opinion came from the 2 top OS's in my area. I did not want to live "MEDICATED".
One more thing that I have done that I think really helps with the tension and muscle spasms is Massage Therapy. I've been seeing a lady (on & off for about 3 years) who is trained to work with TMJD and this has helped tremedously. When it's really bad, I see her every week, when it eases up, I see her as needed.
I hope this info helps and I think I would check with whomever is doing your splint therapy and ask about the increased spasms and tinnitus.
Good Luck,
Cymy Sue
P.S.
I've always been told to use (ice or heat) which ever works best. However, I've learned that if you have joint damage and bad spasms, usually heat is best and I've been told that moist heat is the better.
[This message has been edited by Cymy Sue (edited 01-16-2003).]
[This message has been edited by Cymy Sue (edited 01-16-2003).]
[This message has been edited by Cymy Sue (edited 01-16-2003).]
JerseyGuy
01-16-2003, 11:14 AM
Marcus,
I have been delaing with TMJ related problems for about six years. My only expereince with splints was about 2 years ago. I was given a lower splint wich fit over my bottom teeth. I was told it was should bring my lower jaw down and forward a bit. At first, I had more pain, different pain too, muscle positions were changing. Even though my symptoms have returned due to recent dental work, I recall that the splint helped quite a bit after approx 5 weeks, after which I removed it and felt at least 50% better. For my recent problems, I will probably go back to the same specialist and have the splint refitted, or a new one if necessary. From someone who has experienced alot, my advice is to give it time, communicate with the dentist you are working with and be patient. Read as much as you can and post any questions on here. I found it to be a long road, but I did my best to stay positive and educate myself. It would be great if I never had to think of TMJ again, but the reality is I have symptoms and I gotta deal with it. Good Luck. You will feel better!
I have been delaing with TMJ related problems for about six years. My only expereince with splints was about 2 years ago. I was given a lower splint wich fit over my bottom teeth. I was told it was should bring my lower jaw down and forward a bit. At first, I had more pain, different pain too, muscle positions were changing. Even though my symptoms have returned due to recent dental work, I recall that the splint helped quite a bit after approx 5 weeks, after which I removed it and felt at least 50% better. For my recent problems, I will probably go back to the same specialist and have the splint refitted, or a new one if necessary. From someone who has experienced alot, my advice is to give it time, communicate with the dentist you are working with and be patient. Read as much as you can and post any questions on here. I found it to be a long road, but I did my best to stay positive and educate myself. It would be great if I never had to think of TMJ again, but the reality is I have symptoms and I gotta deal with it. Good Luck. You will feel better!
Swirvo
01-16-2003, 04:34 PM
Thanks guys.
I'll take your advice JerseyGuy and keep with it. I would call my TMJ dentist but he's out of town and his office said that I'd just have to wait till he got back but keep wearing the splint. I guess it makes sense that the muscle tension would increase at first. My tinnitus is just absolutely through the roof though, it makes this very very hard indeed. Thanks again.
I'll take your advice JerseyGuy and keep with it. I would call my TMJ dentist but he's out of town and his office said that I'd just have to wait till he got back but keep wearing the splint. I guess it makes sense that the muscle tension would increase at first. My tinnitus is just absolutely through the roof though, it makes this very very hard indeed. Thanks again.
angel444
01-20-2003, 04:55 AM
Could you tell me if full pulled ears are apart of this
i feel constantly blocked in ears and a pulling sensation down my throat that feels like im being strangled
also do you get a feeling like a lump in throat or behind tonsil my doctor says this is sinus
my ears ring ,hum and buzz and sometimes they get an electrical buzzing in them
thank you
angel
i feel constantly blocked in ears and a pulling sensation down my throat that feels like im being strangled
also do you get a feeling like a lump in throat or behind tonsil my doctor says this is sinus
my ears ring ,hum and buzz and sometimes they get an electrical buzzing in them
thank you
angel
Swirvo
01-20-2003, 01:13 PM
No I don't get any pulling sensations in my throat. Though since I've been wearing my splint I do have alot of ear fullness, I'm hoping it will resolve itself as my jaw settles in the new position. I also have always had sinus drainage in the back of my throat.
Merrida
01-20-2003, 03:00 PM
I have never worn a splint, but I have the exact same sensations of fullness in my ears. I could have sworn I've been battling an ear infection and that my doctor was missing it. It scared me for a while to think that it was one thing -- and that it was being overlooked. It doesn't necessarily feel better to know it is TMJD either, but I feel less awkward and neglected.
I get the same pulling sensation as well, and cannot wear chokers, short necklaces, collars, chains, I have to be extremely careful about scarves and coats because even the slightest pressure on or near my throat and neck absolutely sends me.
The way I've explained it to my doc is that it feels like all my cells in my neck and throat area are swollen and getting bigger. My throat actually feels TIGHT like I just had a face lift!! (If only my neck looked like I had a face lift I'd be all set).
I get the same pulling sensation as well, and cannot wear chokers, short necklaces, collars, chains, I have to be extremely careful about scarves and coats because even the slightest pressure on or near my throat and neck absolutely sends me.
The way I've explained it to my doc is that it feels like all my cells in my neck and throat area are swollen and getting bigger. My throat actually feels TIGHT like I just had a face lift!! (If only my neck looked like I had a face lift I'd be all set).
Pedro
01-20-2003, 10:04 PM
Those with stuffy ears - can you please try putting your tongue on the roof of your mouth, teeth apart, - and then swallowing long, slow, and hard, only then bringing your teeth together.
I find it helps with muscle tension, after a while.
Another one:
Lie down, push your jaw straight back, and then slowly push it back forward against the resistance of your fist. Then do the opposite, pull it forward, and then slowly back while restrained by fingers holding against the front lower teeth.
The first exercise really helps me, it is my resource against the recurrence of tension, because you can do it anytime.
I find it helps with muscle tension, after a while.
Another one:
Lie down, push your jaw straight back, and then slowly push it back forward against the resistance of your fist. Then do the opposite, pull it forward, and then slowly back while restrained by fingers holding against the front lower teeth.
The first exercise really helps me, it is my resource against the recurrence of tension, because you can do it anytime.
GenDen
01-21-2003, 06:24 PM
I have found that the exercises or stretches to diminish muscle tension are different for different people, dependent on a lot of factors. The exercise that helps you, Pedro, would do damage to me. It has taken me a long time, but I have finally found a TMJ specialist and a physical therapist who are helping me. Muscle tension can be caused by several things. Two of the most common are incorrect jaw position/malocclusion and trigger points that have formed in the muscles. These two may exist at the same time and often do. The way to solve the muscle tension problem is first to find out the cause or causes, then work from there with an experienced and knowledgable medical professional.
Cymy Sue
01-21-2003, 07:50 PM
Thanks for making that point GenDen. I've been told by "those" that have actually seen my facial bone structure, that it looks like thin China.
My Dentist/TMJ Specialist and my Therapist treats it as such. I have found that there are very few Professionals and non-professionals that understand how easily we can be hurt or damaged. Nobody touches my face unless they know what they are doing.
It breaks my heart to read the posts made by those that are hurt just trying to get Dental work done.
My Dentist has an associate that can clean my teeth with my mouth almost closed. She uses a special mirror and smaller tools. I pray that soon, all who try to treat us will understand the problems we face.
Living with long-term and/or severe TMJD is a totally "Different World".
Cymy Sue
My Dentist/TMJ Specialist and my Therapist treats it as such. I have found that there are very few Professionals and non-professionals that understand how easily we can be hurt or damaged. Nobody touches my face unless they know what they are doing.
It breaks my heart to read the posts made by those that are hurt just trying to get Dental work done.
My Dentist has an associate that can clean my teeth with my mouth almost closed. She uses a special mirror and smaller tools. I pray that soon, all who try to treat us will understand the problems we face.
Living with long-term and/or severe TMJD is a totally "Different World".
Cymy Sue