Thank you for following along. The decision to proceed with this treatment was difficult. I know there will be many who disagree and will argue against what I have chosen to do. Please know that this is my decision to manage and live with. I have put faith and trust in my providers. I ask for kindness and respect along this journey.
Content linked here is not an endorsement or recommendation, only information I have gathered along the way. This is a place for me to store the breadcrumbs along my journey. All of the experiences and content shared have led me to the decisions I have made. This journal is intended to share my experiences and hopefully it helps others learn how to research their own medical issues. Nothing stated here is intended as medical, legal or financial advice. Your own due diligence into your own experiences and medical procedures will define your journey.
My hope is that some of this content helps people understand these procedures and spurs you to ask questions.
The simplest concept that I have questioned along the way: Why is what I have called “TMJ”. That is not really a description of what is happening. It just describes a body part. After learning about my diagnosis from my providers, I took time to educate myself. I spent hours surfing many online support groups, reddit pages, discord communities, medical articles, case studies, watching YouTube content, listening to the various conversations, and looking at my own medical records, xrays, MRIs, etc….
This is my conclusion:
TMJ is a joint, Not a diagnosis.
TMJ is an acronym for Temporomandibular Joint. Simply saying a person has “TMJ” does not state what medical diagnosis the person is suffering from.
The above statement is the foundation of what I have learned along my journey. This whole concept and history of treatment for the Temporomandibular Joint is a rabbit hole. My point is: that we should start talking about what else is going on, not just lumping the vague wording of “TMJ” at the patient.
I will be sharing some personal experiences and photographs along the way. This journey has been emotional, the challenges of learning how to properly treat my condition are tough. Not all healthcare providers share the same training nor do they have the same experiences. Not all providers talk and collaborate on treatment modalities. Technology is advancing rapidly. There are providers that are embracing advances in technology, collaborating, and discussing individualized care. They are providing life changing treatments for people, in all areas of medicine and dental care.
I AM HUMAN. Denial has been my near mortal enemy.
Acceptance that there is a problem to be addressed is the first step in pursuing treatment for any condition. The problems I will be sharing did not happen to me overnight. I (fortunately) do not have excruciating pain to manage. Although I did notice subtle changes over time, I did not wake up one day to an obvious medical concern such as a lump in my lymph nodes, or some type of traumatic injury that prompted me to seek medical care. I was able to push through my chronic problems and live my life. Now I see the full spectrum of problems that are associated with my Temporomandibular Joint issues. I no longer deny that I have health care issues. I want the compassionate care of providers who can expertly manage my problems, utilizing new technology with proven methods to collaborate and provide me with better health.
This Jaw Story journal starts June 2024. It is the year of the Dragon. I have peace and love in my heart as strength for the journey ahead. I have learned to grant myself grace daily. I acknowledge how I feel physically and emotionally; I adapt my life accordingly. I believe that advances in technology can improve the human experience. I believe in transparency. I believe in open source information that is tested and questioned by the public. I believe in education and lifelong learning. I believe the biggest distractions in life are the petty battles we humans focus on. I believe if we actually listen to differing opinions we are more open to learning and effectively improving our life experience. Privacy is very important to me. I ask for respect regarding any photos / medical information shared here. Photos / X-Rays / MRIs are mine, I will share as I feel comfortable and I ask that it is not used without my permission. Thanks again for following along. I hope someone finds some information helpful.
I wish you Peace, Love and Wellness.
