Diagnosed today. Need commentary from those with experience. - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

kiki lou · 08-21-2003, 01:27 PM

Hi,

I was diagnosed with TMJD this morning by a TMJ specialist. He says I have a displaced left disc. It isn't severe, as my range of motion is still functional, but I have VERY tender muscles, discomfort with chewing as my bite is off, and I have headaches, neck/shoulder/back pain as well as ear fullness and pain.

He recommends splint therapy (no surprise there) to the tune of $2600 for a lower splint for daytime use and an upper one for nighttime use. He expects the whole process to take 4-9 months.

He also recommended I continue to see a chiropractor whom I'd already seen for one visit. He says this particular woman is one of the more talented chiros around, when it comes to TMJ.

So, does this sound like a pretty typical plan of treatment? Has anyone ever gotten relief without splinting by using a chiropractor? Anyone else have any comments or suggestions?

Thanks for your help.

kiki

totallyconfused · 08-21-2003, 02:09 PM

KiKi,

Hi!! Is you Chiropractor adjusting your TM joints? Mine want to adjust mine, but I am scared to let him. Let me know how it goes for you, ok? This sounds pretty much like the basic treatment plan. Not all dentists like to work with Chiros though. You are lucky that yours does.

Good luck,
TC

kiki lou · 08-21-2003, 02:55 PM

TC

Well, on the last visit with the chiro, she did some work inside my mouth, and then adjusted along 10 points on my spine, including C1. She didn't adjust the TM's specifically. I have MANY old injuries, postural patterns that need to be worked on, and this chiro said I should feel MUCH improved within 6-7 visits.

Yes, I'm lucky to have found a holistic dentist, who is also "qualified out the ying-yang" to treat TMJ. It's worth the 70 mile drive, for sure.

Take care,

Kiki

totallyconfused · 08-21-2003, 04:37 PM

Hi Kiki,

My Chiro had done a little work inside my mouth on the pterygoids. It hurts!! He also adjusts my neck, spine and sometimes pelvis. I have now had 15 adjustments so far and no real lasting relief. I am mainly seeing him for help with my headaches. I have found that I am hurting in places I wasn't before the adjustments, though.

I hope you only get better. Let me know if you decide to let her adjust your jaw and how it goes, ok?

Thanks,
TC