Cymy Sue , Marlene? - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

PINKYPRISCILLA · 07-07-2003, 02:26 PM

I was wondering if you guys were/are in physical therapy along with the splint therapy? and if it helps?

Marlene · 07-07-2003, 09:36 PM

Hi Pinky,

Yes, I "was" in Physiotherapy during my splint therapy. My Physiotherapy consisted of microcurrent stimulation of accupressure points. After about a year of physio, I purchased a T.E.N.S unit for home use (cost - $150.00 Can.) to continue similar treatment at home whenever I felt necessary. Along with phsiotherapy, I also went for chiropractic adjustments, and massage therapy (with ultrasound to the TM joints). I found the combination of all these therapies most helpful to my TMJ problem.

Marlene

Cymy Sue · 07-08-2003, 04:00 AM

Pinky,

I absolutely believe Physical Therapy helps. I have gone to a PT since 1988 for long periods of time. I have posted before that the "Doctors" always were astonished that I maintained a reasonable amount of function. I had been told many times, I should not be able to talk very well or eat anything solid.

About 3 to 4 years ago, I found a (Theraputic)Massage Therapist near my home who was trained to work with TMJD patients and she got me to, and help me maintain a 19 mm opening. I saw her almost every week or every other week.

Since I started my current Splint Therapy, it has worked so well, I don't see her quite so often. Just when I get really stressed or tense.

If I had not had this therapy the last 15 years, I don't know what kind of mess I would be in.

I was fortunate to have very experienced Therapists (with both)in managing TMJD muscle problems.

Take Care,
Cymy Sue

Cymy Sue · 07-08-2003, 04:00 AM

Sorry, double post.

[This message has been edited by Cymy Sue (edited 07-08-2003).]

PINKYPRISCILLA · 07-08-2003, 07:52 AM

Thanks guys for the replys.

The reason I am asking is my specialist kinda discourages
physical therapy because he wants to see how his therapy works first, which is understandable, but like you guys said for periods of stress, and tension I could use some
help. Especially with trigger point massage because of my
tight calf muscles.
A lot of my head, neck, back symptoms have improved but
does your pain related itself to the splint therapy?
It is really strange but when he changes the splint(bite adjustments) its
like all of my muscles have to be retrained?
My tmj dentist believes that a splint should be short term.