TMJ Destroying my life!

Fortunately, the disease is generally episodic.....not permanantly constant. That's the good news. The bad news is you don't know how long it will last. There are definitely people that can help you (if you live in a big city). There are specialists and oftentime they work with psychologists and physical therapists. Surgery should be the last option on your list.

Hi etlm, I'm sorry you are in TMJ pain. I know it well. I'm not sure if we are allowed to post links here but if you google TMJ forum, there's a wonderful one. I've also found great comfort from a topical anesthetic spray (muscle relaxer). Check out Gebauer's Ethyl Chloride or Pain Ease. Good luck.

Hi etlm. I'm sorry you are going through this horrible disorder. I too have really bad TMJD. Mine began with ear pain, runs down into my jaw, neck, shoulder and back.I even had trouble swallowing. I had the same ear problems. I went for help from a dentist, ended up getting a root canal and got TMJ issues on the opposite side as well. My ear symptoms are pretty intense. I wear a night splint, that has helped the throat problems some. I started PT a couple of months ago. It has helped with my headaches, the ear pressure has gotten much better, (barely have any at all now). I stil have the ringing and most of my jaw, neck, and shoulder pain is still there, though it's not as constant as it used to be. I only go 1x a week, and I wish I could afford to go 2x. Turns out, I have forward neck posture and one side of my body is higher than the other. Many people I've spoken to have seen great results, so it's a good decision. I look forward to PT every week. Go and be religious about performing any exercises, relaxation techniques, and home care guidance they provide. Good luck to you.