IS THIS TMJ OR SOMETHING ELSE???

My daughter has suffered with what we think is TMJ for
a year and a half now. We have been working with a
specialist with a splint, and message therapy. None of it
has really worked. We also had done an arthrocentisis...I
think that is how you spell it. Where they go in with a
needle in the joint and flush out the joint. It just made
it worse. You can hardly even touch her face...Help!!
I don;t know what to do for her. She is still so young.
Only 19 years old. We have had MRI's and Ct scans and x-rays.
Only showing a little inflamation (inflammation). Doctor;s our stumped.
Do you have any ideas?? I will except any suggestions. Is
there other problems out there that are similiar to TMJ,
that we don't know about. Please help. Desperate in
Utah....

[Kevin Pho, MD]

TMJ can be a difficult disease to treat effectively.  

It sounds like multiple imaging studies have been performed, as well as an arthroscopy.

There are more investigational therapies to consider.  This would include Botulinum toxin injection as well as use of a low level laser.  Both these modalities should be discussed with your personal physician, or in conjunction with a TMJ clinic at a major academic medical center.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[kjh76]

Carrieblue, I had several of the same issues with my tmj. However, I found a specialist in  Dr. William Mchorris in memphis, TN. Doctor McHorris strongly advices against any surgery or injections, and he is called as a witness in trials where people have had severe jaw damage from oral surgeons trying to correct TMJ.  His staff is some the nicest people I have ever met in my entire life.  Are you close to the area? Maybe you could visit him. If not I hope you can find help for your daughter's problems.

[Marine Schawrtz]

This seems related to  the TMJ. Have you  tried  a Physical Therapist  with
expirience  on TMJ,head and neck  dysfunction?

[Juddan]

Have you had your daughter to a neurologist?  This sounds an awful lot like trigeminal neuralgia.  I have have had 'TN' for about 6 years now and it is very painful.  Can you describe her pain?  Is it like sharp jabs?  Does it bother her to be outside in the wind? or even just a slight breeze?  Does water from the shower cause her pain?  I can give you a ton of info on this from experience and direct you to a great group of people online for support.

[calicotv]

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[brookeinindy]

I have TMJ and have been thru this process... http://www.reallysmile.com/neuro.asp  I have actually just finished with the process to the point that my jaw should be aligned now.  I may have to go back for future appointments but I'm hoping not because it would cost $500.  I highly recommend this procedure for anyone that has TMJ.  I was in pain for years and i can't imagine feeling like that every day now!