Hopefully getting somewhere in treatment for atypical facial pain

[MountainMama]

I just wanted to put this out there for others suffering from AFP. I thought I would just have to live with it. My oral surgeon mentioned he knew a facial pain specialist that he highly recommended.
I have been twice. Before the first appointment they asked for release forms for all my previous dental and medical records. I also filled out an extensive set of paperwork that detailed every pain I have had and when and where it occurred.

The specialist had read all my history before my appointment. He then did a very thorough exam, and felt all my facial muscles, commenting on knots in my muscles I didn’t know were there.

So to make a long story short, he had multiple diagnoses, part of which had to do with my jaw joints and part of which was true neuralgia. It was nice to actually hear an explanation of why I have pain and what caused it.

So I have a treatment plan. He was able to adjust my existing nightguard to help it benefit relaxing my jaw more. I was referred to a physical therapist and a biofeedback therapist, which I start next month. The plan also includes diet and exercise, which I have already been doing prior so I am good on that front.

I have hope now, and a lot more of an explanation of why I have pain, which is more than I have gotten before. Much better than just being told it must be cracked teeth.

I am going to chronicle my therapy and treatment in my journal, which is ridiculously long already. Lol

 

[superjen]

I'm glad you found someone who is committed to helping you. That's hard to find. I look forward to reading about your progress.

 

[Scaredbutready]

That’s great! Being validated and having a treatment plan is amazing. Hope you find continued relief!

 

[MountainMama]

I'm glad you found someone who is committed to helping you. That's hard to find. I look forward to reading about your progress.

Thank you. Yes, he knows his stuff…has published articles about facial pain, and is board certified. It is nice to not just get the “well we can’t explain that” speech.