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.