Irritable Bowel Syndrome Message Boards | Re: It's all about ME (just like a man!)

Gerry,

I am so sorry you are facing such physical, emotional and even spiritually challenging times. Being alone during such events is very hard. I am not a big evangelist, but in times of great challenge, a church (and its support system) can be helpful. I know it is a bit late for that now, if you have not developed that support so far. But as events improve for you, you might check that out, simply from the point-of-view of having a support system of caring people close by (if not for any spiritual support - people go to churches for various reasons).

About TMJ: The only thing beyond drugs that helps me is a heating pad. I use it every morning when I get up until the heat turns cold (about 10-15 minutes). Then I immediately do exercises for the neck, since my specialist had me go to a physical therapist who said that the muscles in the jaw can't be manipulated directly but can be stretched by neck exercises. However, if you are in great pain, this might not be a good idea.

TMJ is a terrible thing to have because so much of the treatment is NOT covered by standard medical plans because it is considered "unproven". I live in Phoenix (also a desert person). I went to the Pain Management Center here, where they prescribed a $1000 mouth guard to wear at night. I also have a mouth guard to wear in the day time when I do hikes or work out in the gym. It reduces the load on the jaw. They also gave me bio-feedback (not very helpful) and physical therapy. Of course, all of this was very expensive though. Some of the positive effects came only months after the fact. For a long time, I cursed the doctor's name at the clinic because he was very uncaring and saw each patient for about 5 minutes and then billed for another $150. But in the long run, the mouth guard has helped, and doing the exercises each day seems to help. I must NOT do any physical hard work (like lifting heavy burdens - at the gym I only use fitness machines like the little old ladies use). I also do not ever eat on that side of my mouth.

I wrote down your email address and will write later.

God bless you, and be sure to stay here and share with us. I do think there are people here who care.

Anthem

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