I had no idea!!!! - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

Pippin31 · 06-16-2003, 12:18 AM

Hi,
I was diagnosed with TMJ about 10 years ago after getting braces. I would occasionally have Jaw tightness and a little pain. I would go to my chiropractor and he would fix me right up. I truly didn’t understand what all the fuss was about regarding severe pain and TMJ. Well, boy was I wrong. I have for the first time severe pain. My jaw hurts, my ear, neck, head....I can’t open my mouth and it feels like my eye is swelling. Man oh man I had no idea how bad this could get!!! I was ready to go to the ER !!!! I have tried ice and heat...I am on the duragesic patch and 7.5 hydro for breakthrough for chronic pain in back, leg and pelvis. This medication isn’t even touching the pain in my jaw!!!!!!!!!!! I sure do sympathize with those of you who are unfortunate enough to live with this daily. I don’t know how you all do it!!! I thought my other “pain” was debilitating!!!! This pain in the side of my face is about to drive me out of my mind!!!! Good luck to those of you who suffer daily!!!

Literati · 06-16-2003, 01:07 AM

Hi, I'm really sorry you're going through so much pain. Were you ever fitted for a splint or did you just seek chiro therapy? Do you know what set off your symptoms? Stress, whip-lash? I'm just concerned because I have TMJ and am wondering if it will get any worse.

Pippin31 · 06-16-2003, 01:16 AM

It was always kept under control through chiropractor. I never really had a problem unless I had to have a long dental procedure. This weekend is the first time is has ever been sever in 10 years. My sister suffered with it 20 years ago. Of course then they wanted to split her face wide open and operate. That is when my mom came across our chiropractor. He saved her from having to have surgery. She no longer suffers. I on the other hand can not wait to get to him tomorrow!!!

RobynRose · 06-16-2003, 08:15 AM

Hi Pippin,
Just noticed your post. I saw that you mentioned having spine/pelvis problems as well. Has anything been going on with your back that may have caused a strain posturally --- maybe witht the si joints or lumbar vertebrae? I too have suffered with spine problems for years (am considering the Duragesic patch as well)... and I can sense that the more recent tmj symptoms (past year) - seems to be related to what my lumbar is doing. Almost feels like a huge pull from lumbar up to jaw. Does this ring any bells for you? Would be interestend in your thoughts.
I know what you mean, I thought the daily spine agony I deal with was the worst things could be...and now the massive tmj problems have all but thrown me over the edge. Take good care, Robyn

PINKYPRISCILLA · 06-16-2003, 11:26 AM

Just wondering if you tried a dentist who specializes in
tmj?

[This message has been edited by PINKYPRISCILLA (edited 06-16-2003).]