Twenty-five years ago I had symptoms of what I could thought must be tetnus. My jaw snapped shut and I could not open my mouth until this "spasm" subsided. There was no pain usually assocaiated with this area. Had arterialogram. Neurologist's never gave a dx. Neurosurgeon wanted to go in and take a look around. We did not do surgery. They all seemed facinated with this. Lidocain (sp?) was injected into my temporalis muscle but was not absorbed. There seemed to be a "trigger point" on the terporalis muscle. I was told the only thing they could do to stop these almost constant spasms was to give me something so stong it would also knock me out. Took Tegratol for years until a divorce ceased insurance and could not afford it. During this time of not using meds. the spasm's ceased unless I attemped to chew gum. Several years the spasm's have recurred. Have not sought treatment in years. Any idea's? Would love to be able to have these symtoms at least moderated. Thank you, Anne Bidez
Without reviewing the specifics of your mother case it is difficult to state what the treatment options are. Medical therapy which should be tried include treatments for trigeminal neuralgia, which include tri-cyclic anti-depressants (Elavil), and anti seizure medications (such as carbamazepine, oxcarbazepine, and gabapentin).
What I would recommend is an appointment with our Pain Management center. They will be able to evalaute your mother and recommend a treatment plan. You could also ask about other surgical options. Good luck.