[19F] With sharp jaw pain and stiffness following trauma

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, here are some possible explanations for your jaw pain:

• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ or TMD): This condition affects the jaw joint and surrounding muscles. It can cause pain, stiffness, and clicking sounds, especially after an injury or strain to the jaw. The incident you described, where your jaw was pulled and made a cracking sound, could have contributed to this condition. Treatment often involves pain management, physical therapy, and sometimes dental splints.

• Jaw Strain or Sprain: The sharp pain and stiffness could be due to a strain or sprain of the muscles or ligaments around your jaw, especially following the incident you mentioned. This can cause swelling and pain when moving the jaw. Rest and anti-inflammatory medications are typical treatments.

• Dislocation or Subluxation: The cracking sound and subsequent pain might indicate a partial dislocation or subluxation of the jaw joint. This can cause significant discomfort and difficulty in moving the jaw. Treatment may involve manual repositioning by a healthcare professional and supportive care.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms:

1. Rest Your Jaw: Avoid activities that strain your jaw, such as chewing gum, eating hard foods, or opening your mouth wide.

2. Apply Ice or Heat: Use ice packs to reduce swelling or warm compresses to relax the muscles around your jaw.

3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Continue using Ibuprofen or other non-prescription pain relievers to manage pain and inflammation.

4. Jaw Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises may help, but it's best to consult a healthcare provider or physical therapist for guidance.

5. Track Your Symptoms: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and share this information with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Increased pain or swelling that doesn't improve with home care
• Difficulty opening or closing your mouth
• Changes in your bite or alignment of your teeth
• Persistent clicking or popping sounds in your jaw
• Any new symptoms, such as fever or ear pain

Remember, while I can provide guidance, it's important to see a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment.