Non-surgical treatment can restore function of the TMJ (Tempero-mandibular joint) with surprising results. Clinicians who have treated individuals with TMD (Tempero-mandibular dysfunction) have noted that related conditions such as tinnitus have been improved and, in many cases, eliminated. Non-surgical treatment is appropriate in cases where the symptoms are related to mild joint damage, muscle hyperactivity and/or dental-skeletal malalignments.
These interventions include application of heat and cold, prolotherapy, injections of a local anesthetic into muscle trigger points, passive and active jaw exercises, medications such as muscle relaxants and anti-inflammatories, multivitamins, neuromuscular orthotics, biofeedback and acupuncture, transcutaneous electrical neural stimulation, coronoplasty, and cortisone injections.
Conditions that suggest TMJ Problems
Tinnitus
The findings of a recent study were very interesting. Of a group of twenty patients with tinnitus, ten tested positive for TMJ dysfunction in all diagnostic tests used. Nine tested positive to one or more of the diagnostic procedures. Only one patient of the twenty had no positive evidence of any jaw joint dysfunction. Dr. Morgan’s findings were published in The Journal of Craniomandibular Practice. [“Tinnitus of TMJ Origin: A Preliminary Report,” Vol.10, No.2]
Another research project was headed by Richard L. Goode, MD, professor of ENT and Head and Neck surgery at Stanford University’s School of Medicine. Drs Morgan and Goode were able to establish the mechanical connection between the ossicles in the middle ear and the capsule and disk of the TMJ. [“The TMJ-Ear Connection”, Journal of Craniomandibular Practice, Vol. 13, No.1).]
You may get an idea if the tinnitus is connected to your TMJ in some way, by
Risk factors for TMJ Problems
Strong avoidance of/increased need for/being dependent on drug use
History of TMJ problems
Recommendations for TMJ Problems
Prolotherapy
Prolotherapy regrows tendons and ligaments to strengthen and stabilize overly mobile joints such as the TMJ.
Key
| Weak or unproven link |
| Strong or generally accepted link |
| Proven definite or direct link |
| May do some good |
| Highly recommended |
Glossary
TMJ
Tempero-mandibular joint - hinge of the jaw.
TMD
Tempero-mandibular joint dysfunction.
Tinnitus
A sensation of noise (ringing or roaring) that is caused by a bodily condition and can usually only be heard by the person affected.
Prolotherapy
A single or series of injections that stimulates the body to regrow, tighten, and strengthen ligaments or tendons. It is unequaled for pain relief and restoration of normal function for any body joint where connective tissue is weak or has been damaged.
Anesthetic
Agent causing loss of sensation by neurological dysfunction or a pharmacological depression of nerve function.