I went to my neurologist because i have daily headaches, tinnitus and stiff neck. said i have tmj. what exactly is tmj sydrome?

Temporomandibular Jt: The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the hinge joint that connects the lower jaw (mandible) to the temporal bone of the skull, which is immediately in front of the ear on each side of your head. Head trauma, whiplash, teeth grinding, arthritis, stress, etc can contribute to temporomandibular disorders (TMD). http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/oralhealth/topics/tmj/tmjdisorders.htm

TMJ: TMJ syndrome is a constellation of symptoms such as pain due to inflammation or the joint that moves your jaw. Typically there is report of sharp ear pain especially with chewing or teeth grinding and tenderness on palpation immediately in front of the ear. Tinnitus and stiff neck are not typically associated with TMJ. I would recommend a second opinion with your dentist or ENT.

Anatomy: Tmj refers to the temporomandibular joints, where the upper bone (maxilla- temporal bone) and the lower jaw (mandible) meet and function...The joints. This is a simplistic description and you should look this up on the web for a more definitive anatomical answer. Better terms for symptoms associated with the TMJ mechanism are tmd (temporomandibular dysfunction, ) or TMJ syndrome.

Jaw Joint: "TMJ syndrome" is a group of disorders of the jaw joint and surrounding structures. Can be very complex. See a TMJ expert. Any dentist can be a TMJ expert with the proper training and experience. Most commonly, oral surgeons, prosthodontists, and orofacial pain specialists. Ask your MD, your dentist and your dental society for referrals.