A TMJ headache is a secondary headache that happens due to another problem. The TMJ is a joint, the temporomandibular joint that is found on either side of your mouth right below your ears. This joint is responsible for controlling your jaw movement. A TMJ headache occurs when there is a problem with the joint and this problem produces pain as a symptom.
Popping and clicking of the TMJ when you open or close your mouth are also symptoms of a TMJ problem. Additionally, you may not be able to move your jaw, be subject to frequent earaches as well as a variety of other symptoms that are all associated with the TMJ. In order to relieve pain and other symptoms you need to fix the joint problem or all of your symptoms will simply return again and again. You do not want to treat the symptoms but treat the cause of the symptoms to truly heal yourself.
Repairing Your TMJ Difficulties
There are a few treatments available but the best way to fix your TMJ headache is to fix the problem instead of just treating the symptoms. There are both surgical and non-surgical options available. Most doctors will prefer to take the non-surgical course first but if you are not experiencing any relief then you may need to have surgical treatment.
There are special appliances you can wear in your mouth to relieve TMJ pressure. You can also try ultrasound therapy and types of physical therapy focusing on jaw exercises. Additionally there are muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatory medications that may be effective in treating the problem. If any of these treatments solve your TMJ problem then you should be fine, but if these treatments are not effective then a more stringent treatment may need to be approached.
TMJ surgery is fairly serious and should only be considered when all other non-surgical treatment has proven to be ineffective. You can have implants installed in the TMJ to relieve pressure which in turn reduces the number of TMJ headaches you get. You can also have surgery that repositions your entire jaw, but this is typically only done in very extreme cases.
TMJ headaches and in fact any frequently occurring headaches can make life very hard to endure. It is possible to treat your problem with therapy and if necessary you should get several opinions if you are not satisfied with your first diagnosis. Doctors never go directly to surgery but will always try non-surgical treatment first. If your doctor immediately prescribes surgery then go find another doctor! It is possible for your TMJ headaches to disappear with therapy and eventually you will have corrected your TMJ problem.
Cindy Heller is a professional writer. To learn more about
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