Let's Get Personal: A TMJ Success Story with Myofunctional Therapy

Sept 27, 2023 - Written by Continuum Myo and Wellness

Introduction

Are you someone who's been battling TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint) pain and its associated symptoms for what feels like an eternity? Have you tried every remedy in the book, only to find temporary relief or no relief at all? Well, you're not alone, and today, I want to share my personal journey of overcoming TMJ issues and chronic pain through a holistic approach called Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT).

My TMJ Odyssey

My journey with TMJ issues began in my late high school and college years. I was experiencing excruciating pain, but when I sought help, I was often told it was just stress and that I needed to relax. Little did I know that my symptoms were more than just stress-related; they were interconnected and affecting various aspects of my life.

Here's a glimpse of the myriad symptoms I faced:

• TMJ pain and deviation with opening my mouth.

• Persistent neck pain.

• Poor posture.

• Ear fullness and intermittent tinnitus.

• Daily headaches.

• Constant congestion.

• Mouth breathing 100% of the time.

• Tongue thrust.

• Dry mouth and perpetually chapped lips.

• Brain fog.

• Chronic fatigue.

• Constant waking at night.

• Teeth clenching at night.

• Difficulty swallowing.

• Digestive concerns.

• Receding gums and cavities.

• Posterior tongue tie and lip tie.

This laundry list of symptoms was not only physically taxing but also emotionally draining. It seemed like an insurmountable mountain I had to climb.

Discovering Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT)

Desperate for relief, I embarked on a relentless quest for answers. I consulted various healthcare providers, from massage therapists and acupuncturists to primary care physicians and even ENT specialists. Unfortunately, none of them could pinpoint the root cause of my problems, let alone provide lasting solutions.

My turning point came unexpectedly when my infant was diagnosed with a tongue and lip tie. This event led me to delve into the world of Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT). To my astonishment, I discovered that all my seemingly disparate symptoms were interconnected and could be addressed through this innovative therapy.

My OMT Journey

I decided to give OMT a chance. Within approximately six to eight sessions, I began to experience relief. As a new parent, this was a life-changing moment, as I finally enjoyed quality sleep. I achieved nasal breathing and stopped mouth breathing, which brought an end to dry mouth, chapped lips, nighttime clenching, and frequent awakenings. This transition marked the beginning of improved, deep sleep states, resolving my brain fog and boosting my energy levels.

My neck and TMJ pain also gradually subsided, although some residual tension remained. As a proactive step, I opted for a frenectomy (tongue and lip tie release). The results were astonishing—my sinuses cleared, congestion vanished, headaches disappeared, and I felt increased flexibility, not only in my neck but in my hamstrings too.

Continued OMT sessions post-frenectomy played a pivotal role in resolving all my symptoms. I finally got my life back and regained control over my health.

Conclusion

Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT) may seem unconventional at first, but my story is living proof that it can work wonders in addressing a multitude of symptoms associated with TMJ and related issues. It's not just about treating isolated symptoms but understanding the holistic connection between our oral and facial muscles, posture, and overall well-being.

As someone with a background as a Doctor of Physical Therapy and an Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist, I've had the privilege of helping others embark on their journey and witnessing their remarkable transformations. Remember, OMT may seem strange, but it's only crazy until it works—and let me tell you, it works! If you've been struggling with TMJ issues, consider exploring the world of OMT, and you might just find your own success story waiting to unfold.