TMJ Problems

Non-surgical treatment can restore function of the TMJ (Tempero-mandibular joint) with surprising results. Clinicians who have treated individuals with TMD (Tempero-mandibular dysfunction) have noted that related conditions such as tinnitus have been improved and, in many cases, eliminated. Non-surgical treatment is appropriate in cases where the symptoms are related to mild joint damage, muscle hyperactivity and/or dental-skeletal malalignments.

These interventions include application of heat and cold, prolotherapy, injections of a local anesthetic into muscle trigger points, passive and active jaw exercises, medications such as muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatories, multivitamins, neuromuscular orthotics, biofeedback and acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical neural stimulation, coronoplasty, and cortisone injections.

 


Conditions that suggest TMJ Problems

Metabolic  

Tinnitus

The findings of a recent study were very interesting. Of a group of twenty patients with tinnitus, ten tested positive for TMJ dysfunction in all diagnostic tests used. Nine tested positive to one or more of the diagnostic procedures. Only one patient of the twenty had no positive evidence of any jaw joint dysfunction. Dr. Morgan’s findings were published in The Journal of Craniomandibular Practice. [“Tinnitus of TMJ Origin: A Preliminary Report,” Vol.10, No.2]

Another research project was headed by Richard L. Goode, MD, professor of ENT and Head and Neck surgery at Stanford University’s School of Medicine. Drs Morgan and Goode were able to establish the mechanical connection between the ossicles in the middle ear and the capsule and disk of the TMJ. [“The TMJ-Ear Connection”, Journal of Craniomandibular Practice, Vol. 13, No.1).]

You may get an idea if the tinnitus is connected to your TMJ in some way, by




Risk factors for TMJ Problems

Infections  


 


Lifestyle  

Strong avoidance of/increased need for/being dependent on drug use



Symptoms - Skeletal  

History of TMJ problems




Recommendations for TMJ Problems

Mineral  


Physical Medicine  


Surgery/Invasive  

Prolotherapy

Prolotherapy regrows tendons and ligaments to strengthen and stabilize overly mobile joints such as the TMJ.



Key

Weak or unproven link
Strong or generally accepted link
Proven definite or direct link
May do some good
Highly recommended

Glossary

TMJ

Tempero-mandibular joint - hinge of the jaw.

TMD

Tempero-mandibular joint dysfunction.

Tinnitus

A sensation of noise (ringing or roaring) that is caused by a bodily condition and can usually only be heard by the person affected.

Prolotherapy

A single or series of injections that stimulates the body to regrow, tighten, and strengthen ligaments or tendons. It is unequaled for pain relief and restoration of normal function for any body joint where connective tissue is weak or has been damaged.

Anesthetic

Agent causing loss of sensation by neurological dysfunction or a pharmacological depression of nerve function.

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