What is Neuromuscular Dentistry? I Hate Headaches.org has the answers.

This website is all about utilizing neuromuscular dentistry to treat and prevent migraines and tension type headaches. I invite you to roam the site and follow the links to learn how the teeth, jaws and jaw muscles along with the trigeminal nerve are partially or completely connected to chronic pain. Neuromuscular dentistry can help a wide variety of chronic pains, treat sleep apnea and snoring

Oral Appliances for treating Parkinson's and other movement disorders

The utilization of using Neuromuscular orthotics to treat or eliminate migraines, tension-type headaches and chronic sinus and facial pain is well established. The correction of postural distortion is also well documentd however the treatment of movement disorders has been primarily anectdotal.That is beginning to change, the correction of oral and pharyngeal reflexes combined into neuromuscular

TENSION-TYPE HEADACHES AND MIGRAINES OFTEN HAVE COMMON CO-MORBIDITIES OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDERS, MYOFASCIAL PAIN AND FORWARD HEAD POSITION

A new article "Pure tension-type headache versus tension-type headache in the migraineur." in Curr Pain Headache Rep. 201:465-9.0 Dec;14(6) (PubMed abstract below) looks at primary headache disorders. What is most interesting is that they state that differential diagnosis is made difficult to the frequent presence of co-morbidities including temporomandibular disorders and myofascial pain.I

TMJ disorders and Neck Pain are closely linked. New study shows mechanical and kinematic movement of neck is altered by neck pain.

A recent article (Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2010 Dec;91(12):1884-90.) showed changes in neck function when pain was present. Neck pain is one of the most frequently helped conditions during neuromuscular treatment of TMD disorders. If treating the pain can return normal function this would be an incredible finding. The article concludes "Velocity and smoothness of cervical motion were more

WHAT IS THE BEST TMJ TREATMENT?

THERE IS NO SINGLE "BEST TREATMENT" FOR TMJ BECAUSE TMJ IS NO A SINGLE DISEASE OR PROBLEM. TMJ actually stands for TemporoMandibular Joint and it is a joint not a disease. Everyone has two TM Joints. TMD stands for TemporoMandibular Dysfunction but it is also a general term.The following should help guide patients in finding the "right " doctor.To receive the "Best TMJ Treatment" it is first

Sleep Appliance Causes Patient To Develop "TMJ". Is "TMJ" from Somnomed Sleep Appliance or is sleep apnea a symptom of a TMJ problem?

JEFF: I have an oral device (sonomed) for sleep apnea. It gave me TMJ. I haven't been able to tolerate cpap.Dr Shapira: YOU STATE THAT YOU HAVE A SOMNOMED TO TREAT SLEEP APNEA BECAUSE YOU CANNOT TOLERATE CPAP.It is excellent that you have chosen to treat the sleep apnea which can cause heart attacks, strokes, memory loss and excessive daytime sleepiness. Morning Headaches and headaches that wake

CENTRAL SENSITIZATION AND TMD: THE CONNECTION TO MYOFASCIAL PAIN, FIBROMYALGIA, HEADACHE, MIGRAINE AND RELATED DISORDERS.

I have frequently discussed the relation between headache, TMD and central sensitization. The trigeminal nerve is a frequent culprit in development of central sensitization which is why neuromuscular dentistry can be such an effective treatment. Decreases in nociceptive input from the trigeminal nerve can allow reversal of a sensitized state. A new article in Pain "Pain." 2010 Oct 18. "Central

Cluster Headaches and Sleep Apnea. Cluster Headaches caused by sleep apnea and sleep apnea sequelae may be eliminated with treatment of apnea

All patients with cluster headaches that have onset during sleep should be evaluated for sleep apnea. Sleep apnea causes hypoxia (drop in oxygen) and a rise in CO2. Oxygen therapy is a recognized and effective treatment for sleep apnea. Prevention of many cluster headaches can be addressed by correcting sleep problems. During apneic events the patients quit breathing oxygen drops followed by

Facial Pain, Normal Sinus CT scans, Headache, Migraine and TMD

An older study in the Laryngescope is on 104 patients with facial pain who had normal CT scans. Twenty nine of the patients had previous unsuccessful sinus surgery. The patients were approximately 80% women, TMJ disorders are usually (80%) found in female patients. The study showed " Four percent of patients seen by a neurologist had an unsuspected serious intracranial diagnosis." It is

HEADACHES, MIGRAINES, FIBROMYALGIA, SLEEP APNEA, SWALLOWING PROBLEMS AND TMJ DISORDERS ARE ALL CLOSELY RELATED IN BOTH CAUSES AND TREATMENTS

PLEASE READ THIS ENTIRE BLOG ENTRY TO UNDERSTAND THE RELATIONSHIPS OF THESE DISORDERS. ALMOST ALL TREATMENT OF HEADACHES MUST CONSIDER THE MASTICATORY SYSTEM.A new study "Effect of CPAP treatment on residual depressive symptoms in patients with major depression and coexisting sleep apnea: Contribution of daytime sleepiness to residual depressive symptoms." (see abstract below) suggests that

Sphenopalatine block and tinnitus,swallowing problems and other disorders

I just had a patient in the office who we did a spenopaltine block on 1 week ago with major relief of shoulder pain (I was not treating) and reduction of tinnitus and droopy eyelids that we were sleeping. My patients chief complaint is swallowing problems that were better almost immediately after the SPG block I have seen patients with severe insomnia sleep well without medications, other

Headaches since June, Back of head that last 1 1/2 days and end with throwing up.

Rachel: I have on going headaches since June. They are in the back area of the head and I usually have them for 1 day and half. Most of the time I end up throwing up Dr Shapira response: Dear Rachel, I assume that you have visited you physician to discuss your headaches due to the dramatic change. If nothing is found medically occipital headaches are frequently helped by a neuromuscular

One in Six patients perceive that wrong diagnosis have been made.

An interesting study from the Archives of Internal Medicine (abstract below)reports that 1one in six patients percieve that their doctors have made wrong diagnosis. The study reported "Patients with chronic back pain, higher educational attainment, and poor physical health were at increased odds of perceiving mistakes". This leads to two questions, were there actual mistakes in diagnosis and

Chronic daily headaches and meds don't work. What should I do? Neuromuscular Dentistry may be the answer.

Chronic headaches without a cause are frequently related to the Trigeminal nervous system and have no specific diagnosis. When headaches are not helped by routine medical care a neuromuscular dentist may be the best answer. Question from Tiffany: I have been having headaches everyday now for about a year and 9 months now. Had no accidents or head trama btu i have headaches everyday ..No meds

IF NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY IS SO EFFECTIVE IN TREATING TENSION TYPE HEADACHES AND MIGRAINES WHY DON'T MORE PHYSICIANS REFER PATIENTS TO DENTISTS.

THE ANSWER TO THIS HAS TO DO WITH HOW PHYSICIANS ARE GENERALLY TRAINED AND THE FACT THEY ARE COMFORTABLE REFERRING TO OTHER PHYSICIANS. DENTISTS ARE USUALLY OUTSIDE THE TYPICAL REFERRAL PATTERNS FOR PHYSICIANS.A SECOND REASON IS MANAGED CARE. PHYSICIANS ARE FREQUENTLY FINANCIALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR COSTS OF REFERRALS THEY MAKE AND DO NOT WANT TO BE STUCK WITH A LARGE BILL (OR DECREASE IN PAYMENTS)

Trigger point injections are an essential part of TMD, Migraine and Headache treatment for many patients

The importance of this study though extremely limited is that it explains why understanding Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction is essential when chronic pain problems including neck pain, headache and TMD disorders. In this study a single injection in the trapezius muscle (shoulder) gave significant reduction in pain in the masseter region along with reduction in EMG values.There are hundreds of

Mandibular advancement, nasal breathing and swallowing.

Swallowing disorders are frequently associated with TMJ disorders. Abnormal breathing patterns are also associated with both TMJ disorders and Sleep apnea and snoring. This new study "The mandible advancement may alter the coordination between breathing and the non-nutritive swallowing reflex." in the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation (see abstract below) concludes "that mandible re-positioning

Headaches and TMJ Disorders are related to whole body health.

A new article in Practical Pain Management "Head and Neck: Kinetic Chain from the Toes Influences the Craniofacial Region " discusses the kinetic chain and how what happens in the body effects the craniofacial region and how jaw problems, bite stability and joint stability influences the entire body as well. These postural changes are a major cause of Tension-type headaches, neck pain and other

Glycerol injections of the Trigeminal Nerve for Cluster Headaches

Orville : I have suffered with episodic cluster migraines for years they usually come every other fall. the only thing that has helped me besides oxygen is zomig but I have to take more than the manufacturer recomends. What are the possible complications associated with Glycerol facial injections Dr Shapira response: Glycerol injections are usually safe and effective but can have advers

Increased Cortical Activity that causes headaches is increased with sleep apnea.

A recent study in Sleep Med on altered Cortical Excitability in sleep apnea concluded that " This TMS-based study suggests that untreated severe OSAS patients have imbalanced cortical excitabilities that enhanced inhibition or decreased brain excitability when awake during the day." This may be a major cause of chronic headaches or migraines or other biochemical imbalances leading to stress

My Headaches are throbbing, nausea, stabbing ....Renee

Heeadaches related to the trigeminal nerves and jaw function frequently have all of those qualities. This relates to the vascular, hemodynamic and autonomic functions of the trigeminal nerve. Neuromuscular dentistry can frequently allieve and eliminate these sypmtoms as well as the more common tender, aching, and penetrating headaches. Painful TM Joint symptoms may or may not be present.

HEADACHES,TMJ AND ORTHOMOLECULAR MEDICINE

Question rrom Phil Bohnert, MD How about ortho-molecular treatments? Reply: Orthomolecular Medicine is a term originally coined by Linus Pauling one of the greatest minds of the last century. It is medicine that idealizes the health of the total individual by correcting or optimizing the nutritional and biochemical stautus of the body.Neuromuscular Dentistry is a form of orthomolecular

TMJ Treatment: Is Neuromuscular Dentistry the TMJ Treatment?

Neuromuscular Dentistry treats TMJ disorders by correcting the underlying problems rather than just treating the symptoms. The old fashioned mechanical approach to TMD treatment only addresses the current symptoms. Long term correction of chronic headaches, joint pain and muscle pain is actually the result of healing when underlying pathology is eliminated. Neuromuscular Dentistry is the best

Headaches after wisdom teeth extractions and residual paresthesia.

Question from ELMA: What is the correlation between the removal of the third molar and migraine headaches? I have permanent paresthesia on the lower left lip and chin. This occured in 1987 and I never suffered with headaches or sinus problems until the surgery. I remember hearing the dentist asking his assistant "What is that?" once he extracted that particular tooth. Dr Shapira Response: Dear

Relief of 30 years of constant Headache: Brief relief may provide clue to long term relief.

KEN:I Have had headaches for 30 years going away only once when having a root canal done on an upper tooth. While everything was numbed up I had complete brain function and no headache. They are located directly behind my nose area and I feel a constant pressure.Dr Shapira response: The anaesthetic relieved the pain probably confirming that it is from the trigeminal nerve. I would be very

Migraine is Most Common Primary Headache in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorders

A recent article in the Journal of Orofacial Pain identifies Migraine as the most frequent primary headache in patients with temporomandibular disorders. The majority of migraines are actually trigeminally moderated and it is no surprise that they would be common. Tension type headaches were the second most common headache. Headaches occured in 45.6 % of control group and 85.5 % of TMD

NERVE BLOCKS AND TRIGGER POINT INJECTIONS IN THE TREATMENT OF CHRONIC HEADACHES

A new study "Patterns of use of peripheral nerve blocks and trigger point injections among headache practitioners in the USA: Results of the American Headache Society Interventional Procedure Survey (AHS-IPS)" in Headache found widespread use of trigger point injections and nerve blocks it headache treatment. Many Neuromuscular dentists have a great deal of expertise in the utilization of these

ARURICULAR NERVE STIMULATION FOR TREATING MIGRAINE vs NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY AND DIAGNOSTIC ORTHOTIC TREATMENT

An article in Headache "Implanted auriculotemporal nerve stimulator for the treatment of refractory chronic migraine' (see abstract below) reports on a case of refractory headache with phonopobia treated by implanted peripheral nerve stimulators. Treatment reduced but did not eliminate the patients pain. The authors chose to only treat only a single branch of the mandibular nerve and did not

Frontal and Occipital Headaches with Facial Numbness

From Vicki:I have right sided pain in the occipital region and frontal area. Continuous pulsation with buzzing in my ear. I am Nauseated, and have right sided facial numbness and tingling.Dr Shapira response:I always suggest patients with numbness in the face have a neurological work-up and patients with ear problems be evaluated by an ENT. Having said that I frequently see patients with

ARE CHRONIC HEADACHES AND SLEEP DISORDERS INTER-RELATED?

A new article "Increased Prevalence of Sleep Disorders in Chronic Headache: A Case-Control Study" in the June 2010 issue of Headache addresses this issue. The article (pubmed abstract below) concludes that "Patients with chronic headache had a high prevalence of sleep complaints. Insomnia may thus represent an independent risk factor for headache chronification. Recognition of sleep disorders,

Waking with sinus pain or pressure.

Patient: I Wake up with sinus type headache and pressure around eyes.This is a frequent area for patients to have referred pain from both jaw muscles and neck muscles. It is frequently secondary to clenching or grinding of the teeth. Another common cause for morning headaches is sleep apnea.

CLUSTER HEADACHE AND TMJ DISORDER

QUESTION: My fiance has been having these headaches (her doctor thinks they are cluster headaches) for months now. The headaches are intense and always have the same focal point in the front left part of her head. She also has chronic neck pain and has been diagnosed with TMJD.DR SHAPIRA: I WOULD STRONGLY RECOMMEND HAVING AN EVALUATION WITH A TRAINED NEUROMUSCULAR DENTIST. THAT IS A COMMON

Dr Barney Jankelson, the founder of the science of Neuromuscular Dentistry

Dr Barney Jankelson was a Seattle prosthodontist who was the first dentist to look at correcting the underlying muscle physiology when treating patients with chronic pain problems. Like ll great men he entered unchartered territory and the initial response of the dental community was to attack his theories even though they were founded on basic physiological priciples. The real reason for the

MRI for Migraine: Does dye matter? Neuromuscular Dentistry addresses the problem directly.

Cathy Jo: Can an MRI with intravenous dye show different results than an MRI without dye. I have suffered from migraine headaches since the age of 5 (I am currently 42) and currently on disability because of the severity of my migraines. I did sustain an injury at the age of 5 and may have injuried my neck according to my mother. I do strongly believe this is the origin of my migraines, but an

CLUSTER HEADACHES TREATMENT WITH ELECTRICAL STIMULATION OF SPHENOPALATINE GANGLION BLOCK.

Cluster Headaches are a type of primary headache that frequently occur at night and are characterize by autonomic phenomena and bouts of severe unilateral head pain. Spenopalatine Ganglion blocks are frequently used by neuromuscular dentists as an adjunct procedure in treating a multitue of painful conditions. A popular book "Miracles on Park Avenue: Technique for Treating Arthritis and Other

NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY: FIND A NEUROMUSCULAR DENTIST

NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY is an exciting field not only about teeth, jaws and jaw joints but intimately involved with neurology, orthopedics, rehabilitative medicine, physiatry otolaryngology and osteopathic medicine. Patients who can benefit from Neuromuscular Dentistry cover almost every field of medicine. Headaches are especially well suited to treatment by Neuromuscular Dental proceedures. A

Neuromuscular Dentistry, Neuromuscular orthotics, Neuromuscular Reconstruction all work by removing impediments to healing.

To understand Neuromuscular Dentistry you need to recognize the difference between ideal health,absence of overt disease and the presence of TMD symptoms including Migraines, Tension Type Headaches, Chronic Daily Headaches, Facial Pain, Sinus Pain and/or sinus headaches, temporal headaches, morning heaaches and hundreds of other symptoms of TMD (temporomandibular disorders).We all recognize when

Chicago Neuromuscular Dentistry: Correction of Jaw position helps correct entire body posture.

Patients with posture problems and chronic pain may benefit tremendously from a diagnostic neuromuscular orthotic. There are two main causes of forward head posture more accurately referred to as forward neck posture with cranial rotation at C1 and C2 or the Atlas and Axis. The first reason is that the jaw acts as a counterbalance to the head through a complicated series of connections. In

Headache Prevention

No, not all headaches are the same, and there is no "one size fits all" cure for all types of headaches. But one fact does remain constant - prevention is the best medicine.If you experience frequent headaches, there are many ways you can take preventative measures to either lessen the frequency or diminish the intensity of your headaches. Start by keeping a headache diary. If you know what your

What the Trigeminal Nerve and What does it do?

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ or TM Joint) and the trigeminal nerves are some of the most important structures of the face. When the TMJ is out of alignment, it can negatively affect many other areas of the head and neck, partly because misalignment of the TM joint can cause interference with the trigeminal nerve.What is the Trigeminal Nerve?Trigeminal neuralgia (inflammation of the trigeminal

Headaches as an SSDI Ailment

Many people do not realize how serious and disabling headaches can be. In some cases, headaches are so debilitating that people actually become eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is financed with Social Security taxes paid by workers, employers and self-employed persons, and eligibility for SSDI is essentially measured by a person's

What is TMD/TMJ?

TMD/TMJ is an anacronym for temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder (TMD). One of the most common symptoms of TMD/TMJ is a headache. And while medical doctors can often times help relieve the symptoms of a TMD triggered headache, a neuromuscular dentist is specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of TMD headaches and their root causes. The TMJ (temporomandibular joint) is the joint where

Pain Medication and Headaches

When you have a headache, especially a migraine headache or a cluster headache, all you can think about is first, how to make it go away and second, how to make it go away now. Fortunately, there are many options available when it comes to pain medications and headache relief.Once a headache hits, most people turn to "abortive" medications, or medications that are effective in stopping or

Headache and Migraine: Elimination and Prevention Through Neuromuscular Dentistry - Improve The Quality Of Your Life and Live Pain Free!

Reprint of 24/7 press release below:"Quality of life is destroyed when you live with chronic pain. Migraines, chronic daily headaches and other chronic head and neck pain can frequently be eliminated through the science of Neuromuscular Dentistry and Trigeminal Nervous system relief."URNEE, IL, June 02, 2010 /24-7PressRelease/ -- A recent patient who suffered a constant headache for over 50 years

Treating Headaches with Neuromuscular Dentistry

Neuromuscular dentistry is the practice of placing the jaw into its optimal position, relieving the symptoms associated with TMJ/TMD or temporomandibular joint disorder, including headaches.There are several types of headaches that respond well to neuromuscular treatment, including migraines and secondary headaches brought on by trauma to the jaw.The first step a neuromuscular dentist will take

How Can Headaches Be Diagnosed?

Headaches can be a red flag that your body sends up to let you know there is a problem. But how can a doctor tell what that flag means?The first thing a doctor does to properly diagnose and treat a headache is to take a patient history. He or she will focus on the frequency and duration of your headache, when it occurs, how painful it is, what may have triggered it and if there were any other

Genetics and Headaches

Genes. They aren't all about your hair color, eye color and average expected height. Metaphorically speaking, genes can also be a pain. In particular, it is commonly accepted that many types of primary headaches may be connected to genetics. While environment is certainly a factor in whether or not you experience a headache, your race, gender and age are a few of the genetic factors that may

Twenty Years of Debilitating Pain, Can Neuromuscular Dentistry Help?

Comment from Kathy, 20 year history of pain in forehead, nose and all upper teeth. Very debilitating. Multiple doctors, multiple treatments.....no reliefDr Shapira response:Dear Kathy,The pain you describe follows the innervation of the trigeminal nerve. It sounds like you are an excellent canidate for an evaluation and probably a diagnostic orthotic. It is always necessary to have a complete

Understanding Stress Headaches

Stress headaches (also referred to as tension headaches) are the most common type of headache among adults. Stress headaches don't typically keep a person from performing daily tasks, however they can make performing these daily tasks terribly unpleasant.The causes of stress headaches are commonly rooted in environmental or emotional triggers. Because the body prefers to exist in a state of

Blood Pressure and Headaches

When it comes to blood pressure and headaches, there is an ongoing debate as to which is the real culprit: do spikes or drops in blood pressure cause headaches, or can headache pain, especially when due to an underlying condition, cause one’s blood pressure to fluctuate at dangerous levels? Either way, the irony is that people suffering from severe headaches are more likely to go see a doctor,

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Headaches

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1.7 million people sustain a traumatic brain injury every year. And, in many cases, traumatic brain injuries go untreated because the victim does not realize how severely they have been injured.One of the most obvious indicators of a traumatic brain injury is a headache. Even if you think you have only experienced a

Causes of Headaches

What causes headaches? Asking that question is like asking, "What's for breakfast?". It seems like a simple question, but you have now opened yourself up for an onslaught of follow-up questions: "How hungry are you?", "How do you like your eggs?", "Do you even eat eggs?". So, in asking the question, "What causes headaches?", you need to start looking at the metaphoric "main course" - What kind

Stress Headaches and the Time Out

Your toddler has discovered the power of the tantrum, and so has your boss. You're late, you're hungry and now you have a headache. This could be a stressful day. If you tense your muscles, grind your teeth or stiffen your shoulders in response to stress, you may be causing yourself a stress headache and subsequently making things worse. Manage your stress and help keep your headaches at bay by

Sinus Headaches - When Even Blinking Hurts

Sinus headaches accompany sinusitis, a condition in which the lining of your sinuses become swollen and inflamed due to allergies, infection, cold or structural issues in the sinus area. Your eyes hurt, your face hurts, your head hurts, and at times, the pressure and pain can be so intense, it may even feel like your eyelashes hurt.Sinusitis can affect anyone. You may be more likely to develop

Primary and Secondary Headaches

You'd think headaches are just about pain, but how a headache presents itself can tell you a great deal about what is going on in your body and in your brain. So what are the differences between types of headaches and why does it matter what kind of headache you have, when all you want is relief? Because the two most commonly diagnosed types of headaches, called called primary and secondary

Migraine Headaches

There should be a reality show, titled "When Migraines Attack". Picture this - people swimming in rivers of red wine, while sleep deprived or being dressed-down at work by a clueless supervisor trying to cover his own back. It could be funny, if it wasn't so painful. Sadly, migraine headaches are no laughing matter, especially to those who suffer from migraines. Even though a significant

Headache Support Groups

Each year, millions of Americans experience either intermittent or chronic headaches. Yet, when you have a headache, it's easy to feel isolated and overwhelmed by the pain. The important thing you need to know is that you are not alone. Just like there are several types of headaches, there are several type-specific support groups across the country, and it does matter which one you choose.

Prevention of Migraines: Press Release reprint

It is widely accepted that almost all headaches wether classified as vascular, neurogenic , hormonal or muscular in orgins are caused primarily by the Trigeminal Nervous system. While there are many drugs that can be utilized in the treatment of migraines and other headaches one of the best diagnostic proceures may not only clarify why the headaches occur but eliminate, decrease and/or prevent

Headaches and Natural Treatment Options

Do you suffer from headache pain but cringe at the idea of taking a lot of medication? Luckily, there are several natural headache treatments for you to explore. You may or may not know that an over dependence or misuse of standard, over-the-counter pain medication can actually cause problems, or exacerbate your headache pain. And, keep in mind that with pain relief products you're only masking

Cluster Headaches

The term "cluster headache" refers to a type of headache in which the sufferer may experience an episode of excruciating headache pain one to three times per day, every day, over a period of time called the "cluster period". While not life-threatening, cluster headaches can absolutely affect quality-of-life. Often referred to as "suicide headaches" because of the severity of the pain, these

Types of Headaches

A headache isn't just a headache. Whether chronic, recurring or intermittent, headaches are your body's way of telling you that there's a problem. There are several different causes of headaches and there are several different types of headaches. To accurately establish a diagnosis and to properly treat your symptoms, your doctor needs to understand what type of headache you have. Sometimes,

Tension Headaches

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache. It has long been a popularly held belief that tension headaches were solely caused by conditions such as stress or fatigue. But as the science of headache treatment has evolved, many doctors now understand that there are a myriad of triggers for tension headaches. Along with stress and fatigue, some of the most commonly recognized causes

CLUSTER HEADACHES AND SLEEP APNEA: CAUSE AND EFFECT AND/OR CURE?

Cluster Headache patients please pay close attention. Sleep apnea has a major statistical connection to your pain. Sleep apnea is a TMJ disorder according to the NIH report (http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/meetings/workshops/tmj_wksp.pdf) CARDIOVASCULAR AND SLEEP-RELATED CONSEQUENCES OF TEMPOROMANDIBULAR DISORDERS. Oral appliances can treat sleep apnea (http://www.ihatecpap.com) and migraines,

Migraine perspectives from Neurologists who suffer from Migraines

This is an interesting abstract on how Neurologists in France view Migraine.I was surprised that the views of neurologists who suffered from migraine were similar to those who di not. The most common rugs used were anti-inflamatories (1) and Triptans (2). The article stated that migraine patients are usually undertreated. What would have been most interesting would be the differences in

New Developments in Migraine Treatment and how they relate to Neuromuscular Dentistry and Posturology

A recent article in Current Opinions in Neurology reviewed Migraine treatments. While it mentioned the use of medications such as Botox (onabotulinum toxin type A), triptans , Topiramate, gabapentin, petasites and tizanidine and a new nasal form of dihydroergotamine it also discussed risk factors associated with Temporo-mandibular (TMJ, TMD) disorders, sleep apnea and treatments like occipital

MIGRAINE PATIENTS UTILIZING TRIPTANS HAVE HIGHER CO2 LEVELS IN SLEEP. IS THIS A DANGEROUS FINDING OR A THERAPEUTIC EFFECT?

An abstract in Sleep abstract supplement "THE EFFECTS OF TRIPTANS ON RESPIRATORY DYNAMICS AND SLEEP ARCHITECTURE IN PATIENTS WHO SUFFER FROM MIGRAINE HEADACHES" found no changes in Polysomnography but did find there was a significant finding of increased end-tidal CO2. These higher levels of CO2 may fit with the vascular theory of migraines.On the other hand the high end-tidal CO2 values may be

TMJ Disorders can adversely affect the entire family.

TMJ disorders rarely only affect the patient but family friends and colleagues a well. Well there are many symptoms that are discussed it is actually the sum of these symptoms that changes patients personalities. A young mother who has dealth with severe pain uring the day has much less patience with her children and will often be short with them for no reason. She will then feel guilty about

HEADACHES, MIGRAINES, FIBROMYALGIA AND TMJ DISORDERS

There is an intimate cooection between TMD and Fibromyalgia and Tension-type and Muscle contraction headaches. These can also serve as triggers for many types of migraines and chronic daily headaches.The connection is the Trigeminal Nerve that controls blood flow to the brain and contributes over half of all input to the brain an central nervous system from the body.It is generally recognized by

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Sphenopalatine (nasal) Ganglion (SPG) can be responsible for much more than headaches.

I came across this interesting abstract (below) on the spenopalatine ganglion and how it can cause remote effects. According to the article published in Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 1979 Aug;60(8):353-9 it can be responsible for wide ranging disorders. "Symptoms are primarily spastic, involving both visceral and voluntary muscles including muscle spasm in the neck, shoulder, and low back; asthma,

Sphenopalatine (nasal) Ganglion (SPG) can be responsible for much more than headaches.

I came across this interesting abstract (below) on the spenopalatine ganglion and how it can cause remote effects. According to the article published in Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 1979 Aug;60(8):353-9 it can be responsible for wide ranging disorders. "Symptoms are primarily spastic, involving both visceral and voluntary muscles including muscle spasm in the neck, shoulder, and low back; asthma,

HEADACHE AND SLEEP APNEA TREATMENT IN SCHAUMBURG,MCHENRY, BARRINGTON, ELGIN AND CRYSTAL LAKE

I HAVE BEEN TRETING PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEAD AND NECK PAIN, FACIAL PAIN, MIGRAINES TENSION-TYPE HEADACHES FOR 30 YEARS. I SEE PATIENTS PRIMARILY IN MY GURNEE OFFICE AND OVER THE YEARS PATIENTS HAVE FOUND THAT IT WAS WORTH THE DRIVE FOR RELIEF OF PAIN. I HAVE RECENTLY CREATED CICAGOLAND DENTAL SLEEP MEDICINE ASSOCIATES AND I AM ABLE TO SEE PATIENTS IN SCHAUMBURG IN THE OFFICES OF DR ALAN

Long-standing history of chronic daily headaches? SINUS HEADACHE MAY BE A TMJ DISORDER!

The article "emporomandibular dysfunction: an often overlooked cause of chronic headaches" published in Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2007 Oct;99(4):314-8 recommends evaluating patients with chronic daily headaches for TMJ disorders. This interesting article looks at 25 years of Pub Med searches of the keywords " temporomandibular dysfunction, temporomandibular disorder, temporomandibular joint,

Retro-orbital pain and TMD (TMJ) explained anatomically in this article.

A mechanism for retro-orbital pain and TMD is presented in this anatomical dissection of the the temporal branch of the zygomatic nerve passing through an accessory canal in the sphenozygomatic suture. This anatomical placement of the nerve would allow temporal muscle tension to cause nerve irritation and retro-orbital pain. Utilization of a diagnostic neuromuscular orthotic could

NEW STUDY SHOWS TMD COMORBIDITY IN OVER 50% OF CHRONIC HEADACHES AND CHRONIC MIGRAINES

A new study Chronic Headache and Comorbibities: A Two-Phase, Population-Based, Cross-Sectional Study in Headache. 2010 Feb 12 is very revealing. It was evaluating chronic daily headaches, pschiatric disorders and TMD. In the study "Individuals who reported headaches on 4 or more days per week were then evaluated by a multidisciplinary team. CDH (chronic daily headache) were classified according

TMJ and Sleep Apnea

All patients with TMJ disorders especially if they get morning headaches or are tired during the day should be evaluated for sleep apnea. Sleep apnea (see www.ihatecpap.com) is a collapse of the airway during sleep.Patients with clicking or popping TM joints will frequently have resolution of the TM Joint (temporomandibular joint) clicking if they wear a sleep apnea oral appliance.The appliance

Neuromuscular Dentistry: The basic Premises and history of the science of Neuromuscular Dentistry

Much of this material is taken from my delanydentalcare.com website and from Sleep and Health's article on Neuromuscular Dentistry http://www.sleepandhealth.com/neuromuscular-dentistry which I highly suggest you read for a more detailed explanation of neuromuscular dentistry science and physiological principles.Neuromuscular Dentistry is founded on the basic premise that healthy physiologic

Medication overuse headaches, Living Without Pain and how Neuromuscular Dentistry Can Help Change Lives

It is an intresthing phenomenon that medication overuse headaches are an enormous problem in neuromuscular dentistry even though most neuromuscular dentists use very little medication. By the time patients have been seen by a neuromuscular dentist they have frequently seen numerous physicians and other medical specialists and are using multiple perscription and over the counter

I HATE HEADACHES IS YOUR SOURCE FOR INFORMATION AND NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY

I am currently working very diligently to make the I Hate Headaches site the most comprehensive source for Neuromuscular Dentistry and to help the public "find a Neuromuscular Dentist" While there are a few doctors who are early members of our site I will help patients find neuromuscular dentists in their area.I frequently find that patients wish to come to my office to see me personally. My

IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE WITH TMD TREATMENT. NEW ARTICLE IN ACTA ODONTOL SCAND.

IMPROVEMENT IN QUALITY OF LIFE WITH TMD TREATMENT HAS RECENTLY BEEN PUBLISHED. THIS STUDY USED EVIDENCED BASED ARTICLES FROM Medline and Cochrane Library databases. This severely limited the number of studies considered and eliminates publications of exciting clinical work and case reports. This type of search tends toward bias toward drug therapy.The study showed almost universal improvement

Headaches related to rectus capitis posterior minor muscle and its atlanto-occipital membranes

A recent post of mine discussed the relationship between osteopathic (chiropractic) manipulation and TMD. That study showed that similar results were obtained with both types of treatment. A major consideration in treating headaches is the position of the head and neck. Neuromuscular dentistry tends to encourage healing or correction of abnormal head posture. This can have an enormous effect

OSTEOPATHIC ADJUSTMENT COMPARED TO CONVENTIONAL TMD TREATMENT.

A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL (see abstract below) OF OSTEOPATHIC TREATMENT AND CONVENTIONAL TMD TREATMENT REVEALED THEY WERE APPROXIMATELY EQUAL WITH THE OSTEOPATHIC GROUP USING LESS MEDICATION.THIS STUDY IS IMPORTANT FOR TWO REASONS. FIRST, IT SHOWS THAT THERE IS AN INTIMATE CONNECTION BETWEEN THE NECK AND THE JAW. FOR THE PURPOSES OF A STUDY IT MAKES SENSE TO DO A RANDOMIZED TRIAL. IF THE

Risk of Falls, Hospitalization from Falls and Prevention of Falls with Neuromuscular Dentistry

An interesting article in Science Daily (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/03/100324094644.htm) discusses an new method to estimate the risk of falls. Neuromuscular Dentistry can reduce the risks of falls. It has been used to treat vertigo and dizziness as well as other middle ear dysfunctions related to the TM Joint (TMJ). THE RISK OF FALLING IS A MAJOR CONCERN FOR OLDER ADULTS BUT

DANGERS OF WISDOM TOOTH REMOVAL: PARESTHESIA, MPD, TMD, TMJ DAMAGE AND HEADACHES ARE THE PRIMARY CONCERNS OF WHEN REMOVING MANDIBULAR THIRD MOLARS

DANGERS OF WISDOM TOOTH REMOVAL: PARESTHESIA & TMJ DAMAGE ARE THE PRIMARY CONCERNS OF WHEN REMOVING MANDIBULAR THIRD MOLARS THIS IS A REPRINT OF A SLEEP AND HEALTH JOURNAL BLOG. I THINK IT IS IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND THAT THERE MAY BE A RELATION BETWEEN CHRONIC HEADACHES, MIGRAINES AND TMJ DISORDERS AND REMOVAL OF WISDOM TEETH. I BELIEVE THERE IS A BETTER ALTERNATIVE.The removal of mandibular

Dental Implants, Missing Teeth and Headaches

Patients missing one or more permanent molars are more prone to headaches and TMJ disorders. Missing just a single first molar has been shown to double the resk of headaches, sinus pain and /TMJ disorders. When the molars are missing there can be drastic increases in headaches and TMJ disorders. Patients with loss of vertical dimension are more prone to morning headaches, sleep apnea and

MYOFASCIAL EXAMINATION LEADS TO DIAGNOSIS AND SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT OF MIGRAINE HEADACHE

A new article in the Journal of Musculoskeletal Pain by Michael Sorrell, MD of Tufts University showed excellent results in treating Migraine utilizing trigger point injections and physical therapy with supervised home stretching. The examination of the myofascial trigger points is a step rarely done in working up migraine patients,The majority of patients had received previous diagnosis of

Dental work percipitates severe pain problem.

I frequently hear stories of patients who have severe circumstances that result from relatively non-invasive treatment. An example below is the letter I just received.A temporary crown placed in the middle of January 2010 caused horrible face pain, eye pressure stabbing ear pains, refered tooth pains, migraines on opposite side of normal, facial numbness and neck spasms. Extreme pain for about 7

EAR PAIN: What to do when the ENT says there is no infection and does not have a treatment to relieve ear pain.

When chronic or acute ear pain occurs an evaluation by an otolaryngologist or ENT is a good way to begin treatment. The exception to this rule is when movements of the lower jaw cause the ear pain or the motion of the lower jaw is limited. This is a sign of a TMJ disorder. If it happens suddenly it may be the sign of an acute close-lock of the TM Joint and a dentist with experience in treating

Neuromuscular Dentistry treats Migraines, Tension-Type Headaches, Chronic Daily Headaches and Sinus Pain related to Trigeminal Nerve and TMJ Disorders

Chronic pain is frequently multifactorial in nature. Neuromuscular dentistry has been very successful in treating TMD, Migrines, Tension Type headaches and other disorders. Frequently it is not a total cure but 50-80% reduction in pain is usually attained within several visits. There are many disorders and symptoms associated with TMD including:Ear Aches or OtalgiaSinus PainTM Joint Clicking

MYOFASCIAL TRIGGER POINTS ARE EXPLAINED: TMJ disorders discussed at 2010 American Equilibration Society Meeting: New Hope for Headache Sufferers

I just attended the 2010 American EquilibrationSociety meetng in Chicago titled "TREATING THE TMD PATIENT: Putting the Puzzle pieces together". Great news for patients with migraines, tension headaches and Temporomandibular disorders.The meeting opened with an excellent letter by Henry Gremillion, who was recently named Dean of the Louisiana School of Dentistry. He spoke on "MYOGENOUS

Thyroid problems,sleep disordrs, headache and Neuromuscular Dentistry

Patients with thyroid problems frequently also have headaches, TMJ disorders and sleep disorders. The treatment of pain disorders frequently is aided by normalization of thyroid hormone. Free T3 is the activ e form of thyroid hormone and appears to be the most important thyroid hormone when dealing with chronic pain problems.In the midwest theree is low naturally occuring iodine in the water.

Neuromuscular Dentistry, Central Sensitization and Trigeminal Neuralgia: Is Neuromuscular Dentistry an ideal method to prevent central sensitization?

A new article in Medical Hypothesis (see Pub Med abstract below) on Atypical Trigeminal Neuralgia discusses the pathogenisis of Central Sensitization in patients with Trigeminal Neuralgia. A percentage of patients with Trigeminal Neuralgia will have pressure on the trigeminal nerve either from blood vessels or tumors usually in the area of the foramen ovale.Many patients who have trigeminal

Calcitonin gene-related peptide involved in migraine from trigeminovascular system

A recent article points to the use of CRCP (Calcitonin gene-related peptide) antagonists to treat migraines. Levels of CGRP rise during migraine and experimentally injecting IV CRCP can provoke migraine. Two CGRP antagonists are being tested inthe study from Acta Neurol Belg. 2009 Dec;109(4):252-61.CGRP is produced by the trigeminovascular system. Many patients who undergo treatment with a

Throat Pain: Frequently can be hard to diagnose and misdiagnosis is common.

An article (PubMed abstract below) in Janury "CRANIO journal" by Dr Wes Shankland dicusses patients with anterior throat pain. These patients have frequently seen numerous physicians and had multiple digagnostic tests and frequently ineffective treatment. There are five syndromes that frequently cause this type of problems. The five disorders are, Ernest syndrome, Eagle's syndrome, carotid

FACIAL PAIN AND NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY

The diagnosis of facial pain is frequently not called headache pain and often receives a wrong diagnosis. Possible causes of facial pain are TMJ disordrs, trigeinal neuralgia, parotid gland disorders, masticatory muscle pain or pain referred from the cervical an shoulder reasons. Facial pain may resolve easily with neuromuscular dental treatment but it is important to rule out pain of organic

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "SWEDISH EPIDEMIOLOGY: OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA INC...": Saw your site bookmarked on Reddit.I love your site and marketing strategy.Your site is very useful for me .I bookmarked your site!

Sleep and Headaches linked in article in Current Treatment Options in Neurology

An article by Jeanetta C. Rains1 and J. Steven Poceta gives an opinion paper on the relation of sleep to headache. They feel that headache is linked to a wide variety of sleep disorders that may impact treatment results and headache management.They believe that after standard diagnosis of headache a sleep history should be collected according to headache problems. Initally they state that you

Sleep and Headaches linked in article in Current Treatment Options in Neurology

Jeanetta C. Rains1 and J. Steven Poceta2Current Treatment Options in Neurology(1) Center for Sleep Evaluation, Elliot Hospital, One Elliot Way, Manchester, NH 03103, USA (2) Scripps Clinic Sleep Center and Division of Nematology, 10666 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA Published online: 14 February 2010 Opinion statement Headache has been linked to a wide range of sleep

Facial Pain and Headache: Incidence of Facial Pain

A recent article in the Journal Pain looked at incidence of facial pain in the Netherlands. The authors wanted to " The aim was therefore to estimate the incidence rate (IR) of trigeminal neuralgia (TGN), postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), cluster headache (CH), occipital neuralgia (ON), local neuralgia (LoN), atypical facial pain (AFP), glossopharyngeal neuralgia (GPN) and paroxysmal hemicrania (PH)

Temporal Arteritis misdiagnosed as migraine leading to tragic conditions for patient

Drug herapy always carries some risks. The following abstract details how a patient was treated for migraines with ergotamine. The patient was suffering from tiredness and weight loss and fever after a single dose of ergotamine. A second dose led to tongue necrosis (necrosis means death of the tissue) The authors felt that the necrosis of the tongue could have been the result of undiagnosed

Article in Journal of American Osteopathic Association on role of trigeminal nerve in migraines. Why Osteopathy, Chiropractic, A/O and NUCCA work.

Osteopathic manipulation and Chiropractic manipulation both treat headaches by changing input into the trigeminal nerve much like neuromuscular dentistry does. The article states: " Pathologic findings in the neck constitute an accepted etiology or precipitant for headache. Osteopathic manipulative treatment may reduce pain input into the trigeminal nucleus caudalis, favorably altering

NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY FINDING A NEUROMUSCULAR DENTIST DIRECTORY TIRED OF HEADAXCHES? WE WILL HELP YOU LOCATE A NEUROMUSCULAR DENTIST

I have had an enormous respones from visitors to this website looking for a neuromuscular dentist and not finding one listed in their area. If you need help find a neuromuscular dentist we try our best to connect you with one. I do ask for feedback on doctors because I do not know all of them personally. I am most happy when I can refer to an excellent clincian that I trust.While I believe

Pain is worse after arthrocentesis.

Brenda comments : I HAVE HAD AN ANTERIOR DISC DISCPLACEMENT A YEAR AGO AND HAVE BEEN IN CONSTANT PAIN EVER SINCE. NOW BOTH SIDES HURT AND I AM VERY DISCOURAGED. HAD AN ARTHROCENTESIS THAT DID NOT WORK, I AM ACTUALLY WORSE. IS THERE ANY HOPE? I WEAR A BITE GUARD AT NIGHT AND SLEEP ON MY BACK. JUST STARTED TAKING LYRICA WHICH DOESN'T SEEM TO WORK. PLEASE PLEASE HELP ME. THIS HAS CONSUMED MY LIFE

Neuromuscular dentistry at Delany Dental Care in Gurnee, Il

Check out my dental website for additional information on Neuromuscular Dentistryhttp://www.delanydentalcare.com/neuromuscular.html

neuromuscualr dentistry and headache elimination

The following is a reprint of my article I was asked to write for the American Equilibation society. There are a couple of pictures that are not included in the text but can be found on the Sleep and Health Journal Site @ http://www.sleepandhealth.com/neuromuscular-dentistryThis article was written to explain Neuromuscular Dentistry to TMJ dentists who are not familiar with the field. I firmly

Temporal Tendinitis: A Migraine Mimic Temporal Tendinitis is a very common disorder frequently misdiagnosed and/or mistaken for migraine.

There was an excellent article in Practical Pain Management by Edwin A Ernst III DMD on Temporal Tendinitis. Common pain reference sites (according to the article) for this condition include: Painful TM Joints (Temporomandibular joint or TMJ), Ear Pain and/or stuffiness in the ear, retro-orbital pain sometimes radiating to occiput and /or shoulder, upper and lower aching teeth, pain in or around

Sphenopalatine Ganglion Blocks are an easy for patients to use to prevent migraine and relieve tension-type headaches

The Sphenopalatine ganglion block can be used to prevent and/or relieve headaches and Migraines. I have used it for many years in my office as an adjunct for treating headaches and migraines in patients. While it is not effective for all patients there is a subgroup that remarkable relief from pain and a second group that can stop a migraine before it becomes full blown. The real beauty of SPG

Sleep Apnea Appliances Can Help Resolve TMJ Clicking and Improve Headache Symptoms

Patients with morning headaches usually have either TMJ disorders or Sleep Apnea. Sleep Apnea can be treated with CPAP or an Oral Appliance. Patients who have TM Joint clicking and are undergoing treatment for headaches or TMD can benefit in several ways from having a night-time apnea appliance and a daytime neuromuscular orthotic. A problem that is sometimes encountered with oral appliances

Glasses and Headache Treatment: How your Optician can help relieve your Occipital and Neck Pain

An Optician can be a vital team member when it comes to treating headache pain. An Optometrist is a specialist in prescribing contanct lenses and glasses which can frequently help headaches coming from eye strain. An Opthamologist is a MD who specializes in diseases of the eyes and will do surgical interventions when necessary. Opthamologists can prescribe medications and prescribe contacts

Chicaqgo: Headache Treatment and Neuromuscular Dentistry

I have received several e-mails from patients who tell me that there are no dentists listed in their area. We will help you find a Neuromuscular Dentist in your area. I practice in Gurnee, Illinois and see patients primarily from Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. I can do some procedures and initial consults on TMJ disorders at the offices of Chicagoland Dental Sleep Medicine

Neuromuscular Dentistry (NMD) and the PPM Mouthguard help the New Orleans Saints win the Superbowl: Headache Treatment is where NMD really shines.

The same Neuromuscular Dentistry that was used to create Pure Power Mouthguards(PPM) to help the New Orleans Saints is what is put into neuromuscular orthotics to treat chronic pain, migraines and tension type headaches. There is a continuous spectrum from total health and ideal function to poor health and function. The PPM mouthguard is trying to improve highly functional athletes with

Trigger point injections and Greater Occipital Nerve block treating transofrmed migraine. The Role of Neuromuscular Dentistry in Long Term Relief

Transformed Migraine (common Migraine) usually has a history of beginning as episodic migraine attacks which increse in frequency. This occurs over aperiod of months to years and the Transformed Migraine (TM) occur frequently, often daily and are a combination of vascular and Tension-type Headaches. The TM can very from mild to moderate severity with epsodes of increased severity. These

Long term success with TM Joint pain and headaches

I just saw a patient today that I treated a few years ago. Shae had had over 25 years of severe TM Joint pain and Headaches. She was referred to me by an Oral Surgeon in Texas. This patient had worn an oral appliance continuously for years with only partial pain relief.A diagnostic neuromuscular orthotic and trigger point injections had led to complete pain relierf and she opted for a cosmetic

New Technique to Treat TM Joint Dislocation

A new study in Anaesthesia Progress reported on a new method to treat dislocation of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ or TM Joint). The technique is to do a deep temporal nerve block with lidocaine to reduce muscle spasm The entire study "Use of Masserteric and Deep Temporoal Nerve Blocks for Reduction of Mandibular Dislocation" is available at www.anaesthesiaprogress.org.An alternative method

NATIONAL SLEEP FOUNDATION NEWS ITEM REPORTS LESS THAN 50% OF PATIENTS USE CPAP ON A REGULAR BASIS

THE FOLLOWING WAS COPIED FROM THE NATIONAL SLEEP FOUNDATIONS WEBSITE:"Treating Sleep Apnea: What's New for CPAP Masks?For the 18 million people living with sleep apnea, under 50% regularly use their CPAP mask while sleeping at night. Common patient complaints are that the masks, which opens the upper airway with pressurized air through a tube, are uncomfortable, awkward, and claustrophobic. Rates

Years of Headache Pain, TM Joint Pain and Clicking and Wisdom Tooth Removal

My daughter has suffered several years with severe headaches many of which we have not been able to help her with. She has clicking in her jaw and winces in pain often. Her wisdom teeth were growing in wrong so we had them removed and that has not helped. Her cousin has TMJ but we live in upstate NY above Albany and there are not that many places for us to get help. If you have any suggestions we

Improving Balance with Neuromuscular Dentistry

Improving balance is crucial especially in older adults and in patients recovering from severe injuries. Neuromuscular Dentistry is being used to improve balance, strength and speed in professional athletes. The PPM Mouthguard or Makkar Pure Power Mouthguard is used by professional athletes like the New Orleans Saints to improve athletic preformance. Neuromuscular Dentistry can also be used to

TMD AND VERIGO AS EXPLAINED BY DR NORMAN THOMAS OF THE LAS VEGAS INSTITUTE

Neuromuscular Dentistry frequently eliminates not just headaches and Migranes but vertigo and dizzinss as well. There are many possible ways in which this occurs based on neurological changes in the trigeminal nervous system and the connections to other cranial nerves. The following is an anatomical explanation of how neuromuscular dentistry treats Vertigo. Other causes can include the Tensor

What to expect at your headache or TMJ disorder consult.

When you see a doctor for the first time for a TMJ disorder you should expect to have to give lengthy and detailed history. There are usually forms to fill out. What is important is that this history should be reviewed with the patient and how the history relates to the current problem should be explored. The initial consult is usually at least 45 minutes but can last for several hours. In

Turning off a migraine headaches in seconds without drugs.

There is an very cool trick that can be used to provide instant relief for some migraines and tesion-type headaches. Because most headaches are trigeminal in orgin stimulation of the GAG reflex will often alleviate both headaches from muscle spasm and/or myofascial pain. The gag reflex is a protective reflex that prevents aspiration of vomit into the lungs by rapid wide opening of the mouth.The

EXPLODING HEAD SYNDROME USUALLY DOES NOT HAVE SIGNIFICANT PAIN ASSOCIATED WITH IT.

Exploding head syndrome is an interesting syndrome of unknown pathogenisis. It is documented and accepted in the International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD).An article by Casucci G, d'Onofrio F, Torelli P. discusses " trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TACs) and hemicrania continua, while the latter comprise classical trigeminal neuralgia, hypnic headache, primary thunderclap headache

Cluster Headaches, hate headaches, treatment and prevention

Thomas comments : I've been having cluster headaches for about twenty years, skipping a year every once in a while. I'm currently taking gabapentin and amitrypaline, seems to be working as of this time (we will see) and I have oxygen (havent tried it yet) headaches wake me from sleep, last about 30 to 45 min., pacing and or burying my head in the couch cushions while trying to calm my breathing.

TMJ Disorders Increases Headaches and Overall Body Pain in Female Patients

A new article in the Clinical Journal of Pains shows that patients who develop TMD have increases in Headaches & Migraines but also have significant increases in other bodily pains. In addition to increase in headaches patients who were diagnosed as developing TMD had increases in muscle and joint pain, back pain, chest pain, abdominal pain and menstrual pain.The study was done on 266 female

PREVENTING HEADACHES IN OUR CHILDREN THRU EARLY INTERVENTION

I HAVE REPRINTED AN ENTRY FROM THE I HATE CPAP BLOG THAT EXPLAINS WHY MANY HEADACHE PROBLEMS PERSIST AND RUN IN FAMILIES. THEIR IS A DEVELOPMENT PATHWAY THAT LEADS TO PHYSICAL AND STRUCTURAL CHANGES THAT LEAD TO HEADACHES AND MIGRAINES. WHILE NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY ALLOWS US TO TREAT PATIENTS AND ALLEVIATE THE MIGRAINES AND OTHER HEADACHES IT IN IMPORTANT THAT WE RECOGNIZE THAT THESE PROBLES

Ankylosing Spondylitis Associated With (TMJD) Craniomandibular Disorder

THIS IS AN INTERESTING ABSTRACT ON TREATMENT OF ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS AND TMD TREATMENT COMBINEDI have a patient who we treated many years ago with neuromuscular dentistry who had ankylosing Spondylitis as did his father. We started with a diagnostic work-up that included EMG and MKG and use of ULF TENS to relax trigeminally innervated muscles and created a dianostic orthotic. The patient

HEADACHE RELIEF AFTER 50 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS PAIN

I recently treated a patient who a a continuous headache for over 50 years. I originally saw hew husband and my Schaumburg Chicagoland Dental Sleep Medicine Associates office to treat his sleep apnea with an oral appliance. We successfully treated his sleep apnea and in the process eliminated his snoring which she commented greatly improved her life. We then discussed her headaches and did

21 year old frequent headaches and migraine with no relief.

A recent email brings up many interesting questions. My comments follow this distressing case. "I am writing this on behalf of our 21 year old son who has dealt with frequent headaches since kindergarten. The headaches have gotten more frequent and more severe as the years have gone by. Currently, he averages 4-5 headaches a week and approximately 2 migraines a month. He takes Extra Strength

Chronic Daily Headache in Children and Adolescents

Chronic Daily Headache which affects 2-4% of female adolescents and as high as 2% of males can have a devastating effect on children. They usually occur with a chronic baseline headache with episodes of severe migraine-like are severe in intensity. This condition can last for months and there is no known underlying pathology. A neuromuscular dentist (NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY http://

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Neuromuscular Dentistry Relieves Headaches

Neuromuscular Dentistry is a powerful resource for treating chronic headaches and TMJ disorders. It works by correcting abnormal balance in how the muscles of the head and neck function. It also has an enormous effect on the trigeminal nervous system. This is extremely important because the trigeminal nerve is responsible for the majority of migraines, Chronic daily headaches, Episodic

TMD and Sleep Disorders and Idiopathic Pain Disorders

An article from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine evaluated TMD patients relative to sleep disorders and pain sensitivity. The study found two or more sleep disorders in 43% of patients. Insomnia and sleep bruxism were the two most commonly found sleep disorders. Both Primary Insomnias (PI) and Respiratory Disturbance Index (RDI) were associated with increased pain sensitivity.The authors

Acupunture and TMD treatment

A recent paper in the Journal of Complementary Medicine in December 28, 2009 evaluate the acupuncture for treating TMD symptoms. They evaluated four previous randomized controlled studies that all showed statistically significant improvement in symptoms "in relation to short-term improvement of TMD signs and symptoms of a muscular origin". The authors concluded "research into the long-term

Cluster Headaches

Blues Freak comments : I have cluster headaces for 8 plus yrs. I wore a TMJ piece nite and day for 2 yrs with no relief. Oxygen for almost a yr. even accuputcunter for over a yr. with a small amount for a short time. I don't work any longer I'm 56 on disabilty now. I need helpDear Blues Freak,When you say you are using oxygen I assume that is during an acute attack.. Oxygen (100%) can usually

Another article discussing the increase in migraines in children and adolesents due to the trigeminovascular system. The key phrase " conjunction with the peripheral trigeminovascular system," refers to the nerves and muscles and receptors of the jaw and face. This is exactly the type of problem that is often if not almost always best treated with a neuromuscular orthotic. In children and

Facial pain: Migraine or symptom of TMD

A recent abstract discussed a facial pain and failure of numerous treatments. It was then dcided the patient had atypical migraine. The abstract is reprinted with my comments following.Acta Neurol Belg. 2009 Sep;109(3):235-7.Migraine presenting as chronic facial pain.Debruyne F, Herroelen L.Headache Clinic, Department of Neurology, University Hospital UZ Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium.