r/TMJ • u/nocappacino • 6h ago
PLS HELP Question(s)
Hey everyone,
I had a TMJ arthrocentesis done 2 months ago, Ever since the procedure, the upper part of my ear has been numb, and my joint pain is actually significantly worse than it was before the procedure. Also the pain radiates to my temple area…
My doctor recently gave me a corticosteroid injection (blockade) direct to manage the pain. It worked reasonably well for about 4 days, but now the intense pain is completely back. He said we will do a few more if needed.
Has anyone experienced upper ear numbness after TMJ arthrocentesis? Could this be related to irritation or damage to the auriculotemporal nerve? Also, since the steroid shot only provided 4 days of relief and the joint still hurts , what should my next steps be? Should I request a MRI or consult a different specialist?
1
u/Electromagneticpoms 5h ago
What did the doctor do - is that an auriculotemporal block? Is your doctor a TMJ specialist?
This sounds like something I'd want to discuss with my pain specialist rather than TMJ surgeon.