TMJ Misery

[ocpoolsys]

Greetings all. I am new on this website. I have had severe TMJ problems for many years now, since age about 10. I am 55 now. 5 years of braces were an attempt with no help. I have just completed a Medrol treatment and am taking Carbamazepine. Narcotics do not help much, only a bandaid anyway. I would appreciate any recommendations.

Thanks,

Lars

[Polly-PV]

Hi Lars,

I, too, am new here although I am on other HU sites for various other issues! Unlike you, I have only recently been diagnosed about 6 weeks ago and have had the obligatory Xrays and MRI scan last week. I’ve been given Amltriptylene which I have to say, has helped enormously with the pain, or my awareness of it anyway. I would like to know more about TMJ disorder and what I can do to help myself. Cranial massage has been mentioned as an option? Much love, Poll x

[ocpoolsys in reply to Polly-PV]

Hi Polly. I have been also told that Amltriptylene is a potential temporary "bandaid", and I am so happy that it is working for you. Unfortunately, I have a severe case and even the strongest opioids do not work much for me, (have not tried Fentanyl yet). Surgery is not an option, at least yet. I just went through a short steroid treatment called a Medrol Pack. The jury is still out on that. I am having a Cat scan soon and going to see a 2nd oral surgeon. It has been a long on and off road but I will keep on keeping on !

Best Wishes,

Lars

[ocpoolsys in reply to Polly-PV]

Oh, I heard about various massages like Cranial. Probably temporary relief at best but I would be open for a try.

L.

[n1k17a]

Hi! I have been on HU for a while now but have just decided to search for fellow TMJ sufferers and came across your post.

I'm sorry to hear you have suffered for so long without any real help by the sounds.

I've been suffering with TMJ for 5 years. I also went through braces and guards, physio, acupuncture, meds and even surgery. The best relief that I get now is having botox injections into the joints and my temples. It only helps slightly for a couple of months (and only allowed it every 9-12 months) but it is by far the best treatment I've come across so far. Not many hospitals offer botox on NHS anymore so I've had to travel a bit, but it may be worth asking your doctor/dentist if you can be referred somewhere to try it?

Good luck and best wishes x