Temporal mandibular joint pain/ Facial pain

[55lindylou]

Hi everyone

im suffering with jaw pain and facial pain, my jaw sounds as though it's grating when I eat. Also I'm getting aching in front of my ear and face.

Has anybody else had this

Thanks x

[55lindylou]

Thank you so much for your reply, could you tell me what relaxation techniques you used. Also how long does it last for, I tend to wake up every morning with a stiff neck and shoulder on that side, taking ibuprofen and paracetamol. Do you suffer from fibromyalgia, hope you don't mind me asking.

Thanks x

[rosewine]

Like Hidden mine was also caused by TMJ and I was also grinding my teeth at night. Sometimes gently massaging that area and either a hot or cold compress whichever suits you best placed on the painful area can help. As they say relaxation can help, a tooth guard and I do facial exercises by opening and closing my jaw and mouth as wide as I can to keep everything from seizing up helps. Hope you can get some relief from it as it is extremely painful.x

[TheAuthor]

Hi 55lindylou

I am so genuinely sorry to read this my friend, and as the others have said it could be ''TMJ.'' I would definitely get this checked out by your GP or Medical Specialist my friend just to have this ruled out of the equation.

I have pasted for you below the *NHS Choices cache on this and a link to their page:

*Introduction

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a problem affecting the 'chewing' muscles and the joints between the lower jaw and the base of the skull.

Doctors sometimes refer to the condition as "myofascial pain disorder".

It's been estimated that up to 30% of adults will experience TMD at some point in their lives.

The condition itself isn't usually serious, and the symptoms it can cause – including pain, jaw joint clicking or popping, and difficulties eating – usually only last a few months before getting better.

However, these symptoms can significantly lower quality of life, and specialist treatment might be required if they're severe.

What are the symptoms?

TMD can cause:

clicking, popping or grating noises as you chew or move your mouth

muscle pain around the jaw

pain in front of the ear that may spread to the cheek, ear and temple

difficulty opening the mouth – the jaw may feel tight, as if it is stuck, making eating difficult

headache or migraine

earache or a "buzzing" or blocked sensation in the ear

pain in other areas of the body – such as neckache or backache

These symptoms may lead to related symptoms, such as disturbed sleep.

nhs.uk/conditions/temporoma...

I want to sincerely wish you all the best of luck, and please take care of yourself.

All my hopes and dreams for you

Ken