TMJ-Next Step - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

Jill J · 01-09-2003, 05:52 PM

Hi Everyone,
I am so glad I found this forum. I was diagnosed with TMJ in August 2002. I've always had the popping in my jaw but no pain until then. Started with the ringing in my ears, jaw pain and then deviation in my bite. I found a TMJ Specialist and he made the splint, put me on valium at night and PT and chiropractor. I haven't been to PT yet......still putting that off as we all know insurance doesn't cover this stuff. I wear my splint a few nights a week because any more then that I just chew it while I'm sleeping. I was wondering 1: If anyone had the deviation in their jaw and if so if you ever had it fixed or go back to normal? 2: What next step in treatment should I try. Any info would be great.......Thanks JILL

burgeke · 01-10-2003, 06:07 AM

Hi Jill!

Browns Mills huh? I grew up in Sewell NJ and had a close friend that moved up your way.

I just wanted to welcome you to the board. I can't directly answer your questions but I am sure there are many folks here who can help you.

Jill J · 01-10-2003, 08:38 AM

Thanks for the welcome, but you know how it is, I wish I never had to look for a site like this. But hopefully with all of us having TMJ we may be able to come up with something...

Take Care,
Jill

GenDen · 01-10-2003, 02:17 PM

My insurance covers physical therapy just fine. They just bill it as myofacial pain. Obviously, if they call it TMJ, most insurance companies deny payment. Myofacial pain is pain in the muscles and they cover that. Check with your physical therapy provider and I think you will find that it can be covered by most insurance.

crystalll · 01-10-2003, 05:22 PM

Hi Jill, and welcome.

In regards to your question about jaw deviation, my jaw deviates to the right on opening, which indicates that the disc on the right is displaced. Unfortunately, splint therapy hasn't helped with my problem, but I know that it has helped many other people, so hang in there. I'm also a stong advocate of using complementary therapies such as PT and massage therapy, if for nothing else than to preserve your sanity!

Best of luck.
Crystal