TMJ and stiffness - TMJ Disorder -TemporoMandibular Joint Message Board

berriepie · 04-24-2008, 04:27 AM

TMJ sufferers, how bad does your stiffness get? For the past couple of weeks , when i wake up my neck, shoulders and back are incredibly stiff. It goes away somewhat throughout the day, only to return with a vengence at night time!! what helps? exercise seems to make it worse the next day. im opting for a theruputic massage but they also make you stiff before they make you loose. how about chiropractic manipulation? its really getting me down

the pain radiates up into my head and i cant even take painkillers because of rebound headaches i get!!

thanks

! xxxx

Thelma-Louise · 04-24-2008, 09:29 PM

Chiro is probably the best since it may help correct any derangement or misalignment to the c-spine resulting from the tmj which in turn is responsible for most of the head, neck and shoulder pain. But physical therapy (massage, warm compresses, tens unit, ultra sound, etc) and cranial scaral therapy seemed to help me deal better with the sitffness and body aches and pain, spasms, muscle twtiching, etc. If it seems to return at night more you may want to adjust your sleeping position - do not use too many pillows and perhaps try using a cervical pillow to help keep your neck properly aligned when lying down. You might want to try one of those portable heat and back massagers for chairs - some chiro's I have been to ask patients to sit in them for 10-20 mins after they have been treated to help the body relax and adjust to the recent manipulation.

berriepie · 04-27-2008, 12:29 PM

wow thanks, you really seem to know your stuff!

im going to see a osteopath/chiro next week so hopefully they'll have some answers. xxx

lucall · 05-04-2008, 10:31 PM

GOOD NEWS!!!! I have had T.M.J. for 12 long........ years. I have found more relief in the past 2 months than ever. Ok hear it is and I do mean HEAR it is: 1) Put tongue on roof of mouth by the top upper front teeth. 2) Leave a space between your upper and lower teeth while doing so. 3) Close your lip shut. Very important. Do not keep it open. 4) Now relax lower jaw and stay relaxed. It helps to do this before going to sleep at night also. I used to do this before but, always kept mouth open. A Big mistake and found no relief. I found out that you are supposed to keep them lips closed. Repeat: You need to keep your lips shut. My experience is WOW!!! I have been so....much better. I hope this helps you all and let me know how it goes. We just might be helping out so... many people. I could not be happier and this might take a few days for you start feeling relief. Got to get them muscles relaxed. Thanks..