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TMJ pain can be as maddening as it is mysterious. Because this joint—the one that controls most of the motor function in the face—is the busiest in the body, any defect or malformation can wreak havoc in all directions. Sometimes the symptoms are in the ear, in the form of earaches or tinnitus. Sometimes the sufferer hears clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, is unable to close the jaw properly, and suddenly discovers eating is painful. Maybe the most common symptom is a simple headache, which may or may not hit migraine levels.
If you’re seeing our Thousand Oaks TMJ expert for any of these symptoms or more, it is important to be as clear as possible. TMJ is notorious for referred pain, meaning the location is not always the source. Stress and anxiety are known factors in TMJ pain, so the doctor may begin by prescribing anti-depressants, or recommending lots of rest. If stress and anxiety are ruled out as factors, you may get by with simple over-the-counter pain relievers, taking only as directed.
Various home remedies exist for you to try, even before you see a doctor. You can apply heat or cold treatments to problem areas. Make sure you’re sitting ergonomically at your desk, as not doing so can put undue strain on your neck and back. There’s also Botox, which was originally a headache drug. Some doctors are still using it for migraines.