jaw pain when eatting

[YankeeRose]

Hi..
I am 47 years old, and I have always had  some tmj problems..Ive never been able to chew gum for more than a few minutes at a time or I get an achey sore feeling in my lower jaw...My bite is off...
  Now, lately when I eat unless its soft food, I get the same achey tired feeling in my jaw muscles.  It seems to be both sides..not just one.  I do tend to clench my teeth when I sleep...and I feel more relief when my mouth is slightly open...anyone have any suggestions on how to reduce this achey feeling in my jaw muscles when I eat?  Would exerciseing these muscles make it better or worse?
Thanx..
Rose

[PGB]

yeah, I know the feeling.  Definately talk to the DDS though.  It's a horrible conditon to have and anyone who has never felt the pain may sypathize, but they will never understand.  It's not life THREATENING, but it is definately life ALTERING.  There are days when I can't enjoy anything at all because the pain is so bad.  I have a lump under my ear ALL the time.  It never goes down at all and it's from the inflamation.  It's really horrible and I wish I knew what to do/tell you to do to get some relief.  Sorry!!! lol

[YankeeRose]

Hi..Thanx for commenting back.
  My choices in food are limited already, as I suffer from really bad acid reflux...and problems swallowing as well...Now Im lucky enuff to add this to the list!..lol
  It seems as if I was eatting alot of soft foods for awhile because of my acid reflux problem...then when that started to get better, I started introducing more solid foods again into my diet after I started healing...and bamb!...Now the jaw problems...Its almost like my muscles in my jaws got lazy from all the soft foods and when I put something in my mouth that actually takes time to chew...It hurts!...I do feel cracking and an occasional pop...
  I guess I need to bring this to the attention of my DDS....uggg...just what i need...more doctors! :(

[PGB]

The only way I have found to get relief is to alter my food choices.  I stick with soft foods most of the time and I NEVER chew gum.  Wish I knew what to tell you.  I just can't seem to get my own under control at all.  I'll be ok for a while and then before I know it, I am hurting again.  It's a never ending story.  Some of the others on here have done PT and they said it has helped them a lot.  Maybe you should try that?  I haven't tried it, but something doesn't give soon, I may have to.  Good luck to you!!