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Thursday, November, 12, 2009
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tmj ...is it too early for surgery

crystalandmike5
03/31/09
crystalandmike5
Topics:TMJpainSurgeryTENSpain managmentBack painScoliosisdegenerative back disease

i have had tmj for about 1 yr although i recently just got diadnosed, i also have Scoliosis and degenerative back disease so have been on many differant pain,antiinflamitory and other meds for over two yrs that would also help my tmj, but they dont really help either pain.i take 300 ml of tramadol and 3200ml of skelkton a day i have recently stopped all major narcotics. but am still having alot of pain and ear aches and headaches.  also have a tens unit that i use for help with the pain of both tmj and back pain. i have an app. with an othorpedic surgon, and was told by my primary that i would most likely have to have surgery being that this is the worst case he has ever seen and sence i have done alot of treatment, he did say that they would fit me with a mouth guard  and probably physical thrapy, but said he doesnt htink that it will help(being as it is so bad). i do have about half movement in my jaw but the poping sound can be heard across the room and i have stoped eating alot of food because of the pain resulting in a 25pd weight loss.i am 5'6 and weight 125. i already have a pain therapist for my back. i am worried about surgery, do you think that it is to early for a diagnosis of surgey and where should i go form here.

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Answers (1)
Karen Lee Richards
Karen Lee Richards
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Co-Founder of the National Fibromyalgia Assn.

Karen Lee Richards’ career as a writer and patient advocate grew...

Saturday, April 04, 2009

I understand your concerns about having surgery, but I'm afraid I can't really say whether it's too soon or not.  If your joints have significant damage and you will eventually have to have surgery anyway, it may be better to go ahead and have it rather than continuing to suffer for several more years.  On the other hand, if the orthopaedic surgeon thinks there is something that can be done that will keep you comfortable and help your jaw to function better, it might be worth waiting for awhile. 

 

The best thing I can suggest is to ask lots of questions and be sure you understand exactly what condition your joints are in now, what kind of surgery they want to do, and what you can expect following surgery – both short term and long term. Also don't hesitate to ask for a second opinion.  It's always best to have at least two opinions before considering any kind of surgery.  Don't let the doctor intimidate you or walk out without answering all of your questions.  You are paying him to provide a service and you have the right to have your questions answered satisfactorily. 

 

Good luck to you!

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