Some people have reported some relief
with gum chewing. The mechanism is probably more a distraction, or
competative stimulus, such that the pain seems less. The
neurologists state that stimulating the larger fibers with gum may
decrease the firing of the pain fibers. What ever the mechanism, I
have found this to be effective on some days, and in some instances.
While driving in the car, it is a nice distraction from the otherwise
constant and penetrating pain.
If you overdo it, you may suffer from some
muscle exhaustion of the jaw muscles, so be warned. Take some breaks
from actual chewing. Let me know if it works for you in the discussion
board.
DISCUSSION
BOARD
02/16/02
