What should i do for a neck ache from tmj?

Several ways: Seek the care of a TMJ specialist to see what is best for you. For those who can take it, ibuprophen or Aleve (naproxen) can help, but should be discussed with the doctor before taking. Other options are tensing (electrical current), exercises for tmj, or finding the cause and alleviating it to prevent further problems. Talk to your md or TMJ dentist.

Proper Diagnosis: Neck pain can be from a number of different causes. A thorough exam with someone familiar with TMJ problems is in order. If tne neck pain is a soft tissue/muscle related problem, moist heat and an antinflammatory medication or muscle relaxant may help. Avoid any activities that produce undue stress on the neck. Physical therapy by someone trained in TMJ therapy may help.

Seek attention: From a TMJ specialist. This person should be able to diagnose the origin of the pain and help with treatment.

Treat TMJ: Treat your TMJ problem, If the neck pain is related, and the TMJ settles down, the neck pain should improve. 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.

Myofacial pain: Physical therapy to retrain positioning of the spine, head, jaw and tongue can be very helpful, as can moist heat treatments with ultrasound and short-wave diathermy. See Orofacial Pain specialist for assessment and treatment options.