Dr A, Richard Goldman - tmj specialist?? - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

Isobelj · 10-12-2003, 02:17 AM

Has anyone heard of this doctor? I discovered him because he has made a book on TMJ available online and reading it I was impressed and fascinated, it answered a lot of my questions in a sound, comphrehensible manner. He practices I think in Chigago.

I found explanation in the online chapters for example of why tmj cancause tingling in extremities, affect the spine and whole body down to the heels, and why muscle relaxants don't necessarily stop or relieve spasms (these are just things I've wondered about so what I've picked up from issues he does go into). Dr Goldman also uses a technique to relax muscles which is similar to acupuncture but not the same, i.e. he doesn't use meds but pricks significant muscles with an empty needle, working on the premise it is irritation which will trigger relaxation in a spasming muscle, apparantly this works.

Has anyone else read anything by him? Again I'd be so interested in people's opinions here, you all know and have experienced so much.

Isobel

velvetgrl · 10-12-2003, 06:33 AM

Hi Isobel,

I've read about that doctor before. One piece of advice I can give you from my current experience is, no matter how terrific the TMJ doctor is ...you need to have someone that is within a reasonable distance to treat you. It is very important to be monitored and be able to get adjustments or even changes to your treatment plan if you start having complications, pain, or more problems. Not everyone can do well with just being fitted for a splint with their perfect bite, and going home to heal for many, many weeks. I am one of those people. I read Dr. Chan's treatment plan for TMJ, and I'm sure he is wonderful too, but, not everyone can heal that fast and come back to get Phase II in a few months. We are all different and I now know that I need to be monitored and my progress checked more frequently. I absolutely think my TMJ Dentist is the most wonderful, compassionate, knowledgeable TMJ dentist that anyone can find. He truly cares about getting people well and out of pain. But, I am states and states away from him and I cannot just pick up the phone, make an emergency appointment, and drive over to his office. TMJ treatment is very unpredictable. I've learned that just recently, the hard way. This is my first splint, so, I wasn't very knowledgeable and I truly thought I could just wear it, heal, and go back for the dental work. My TMJ dentist thought I would do a lot better than I have. Now I know it isn't that cut and dry. So, if at all possible, try to find someone in your area, or at least within reasonable driving distance. Of course, maybe some people can be treated by someone long distance, but, if you start having problems, it is very difficult to continue treatment in that manner. In all the time that I was seeking treatment, no one ever mentioned the 2 specialists here that I am now finding out treat tmj very well. I guess the dentists around here have their own little click or something. If it wasn't for my current TMJ Dentist going to a conference, I never would have even known about the one gentleman that actually brought Functional Orthodontics to this country and treats even the most difficult TMJ cases. He has taught TMJ treatment to doctors for many years. He got off the lecture circuit years ago when his son became very ill. So, his name isn't "out there" anymore. But, he still practices and sees even the most difficult cases. My son will now be going through treatment for his braces with this orthodontist. I have not decided about my TMJ condition yet. There is another doctor that has treated TMJ for over 25 years and uses some of the same treatment that my current TMJ doctor uses. Another board members wife goes to him and is very pleased with her progress. I have to find some relief for my pain and problems. It may be an adjustment, a new type of splint, whatever it takes. I am determined to get better.
Some people may disagree with me, but, having gone through this myself, this is how I feel. I'm sure my TMJ dentist understands.

velvetgrl

Puzzled · 10-12-2003, 08:04 AM

Hi, I have heard of this doctor. I am from Chicago area and my neighbors friend who was sick for a very long time saw countless doctors then saw this doctor and he cured her. That is all I know but I have read about him too and he sounds very knowledgeable. Word of warning, most doctors in Chicago are very busy and have long waiting lists. My guess is he is very expensive as well as that is the way it is here.

Isobelj · 10-13-2003, 07:49 PM

Thanks, it is good to have it confirmed that my instincts at least re this dr are not wrong, as even if I do not see him I can use his suggestions re treatment as something of a guideline and perhaps look for a dr near me who knows of him and follows his treatment methods. Velvetgrl, I agree very much re the necessity for a dr to be reasonably nearby, for adjustments and in case problems do arise. I think you are making a good decision in consulting good drs close to you, and agree your tmj dentist will completely understand this. I've been following your posts and want to thank you also for writing so fully on your situation, it's allowed others to profit from the detail you put into your posts and the questions you ask

Good luck!

Isobel