As a 61 year old woman, I've always considered myself extremely fortunate that I've never suffered from any chronic pain or injury. I've always been able to keep an active, carefree life, full of energy and vitality. Unfortunately, that all changed late last winter as I was eating dinner at a fancy restaurant! I bit into something that caused my left jaw to suddenly start throbbing and aching. As all my various minor injuries had always done, I was sure that it would go away in a few days. Unfortunately, the pain only got worse, so much so that I became obsessed with it as I was always aware of it I was constantly massaging and holding my poor jaw! I finally had to accept the fact that I had TMJ, temporomandibular joint disorder. Of course, I immediately turned to the internet for information and advice, but couldn't seem to get any clear indication of what to do besides make an appointment with my dentist. My dentist determined that I had a fairly mild case of TMJ and just prescribed a very heavy dose of ibuprofen for several weeks, along with hot compresses. I diligently followed his orders, and, of my own accord, switched to a very soft diet, but my symptoms only got worse. The left side of my neck began to ache, and also my left ear. I even had a hard time talking! Running, which is my therapy and passion, also became too painful as the pounding was too jarring for my jaw. I felt very hopeless and was ready to talk to a joint doctor to discuss the possibility of surgery. Fortunately, I was sparred having to do anything so expensive or radical. While talking to my mother one day, she mentioned an article she had just read about chiropractors treating TMJ. I have always been open to alternative methods to routine medicine, and decided to give it a try. I googled " White Plains chiropractor treating TMJ" and sure enough, up came Dr. Donath's name, along with several other doctors. I was most impressed with Dr. Donath's website and all of the testimonials about his work, so decided to call and see if I could make an appointment as soon as possible. I must say that I was so pleasantly surprised at how warm and solicitous the woman was who made the appointment. I am so used to terse, matter-of-fact receptionists that I already felt a little better! When I came in for my appointment I was delighted at how gracious and lovely the office and atmosphere were. Dr. Donath himself turned out to be a wonderful doctor, extremely warm, attentive, caring, and he explained my condition to me and how he thought he should best treat it in simple, layman's terms. We decided on a course of 5 treatments, and I had my first one right there and then. I must say....and he certainly warned me....it sure didn't feel too good; but when I left the office, and upon waking up the next morning, I felt better than I had in months! It was amazing what just one treatment did! I came back a couple of days later for my second treatment, and was planning on resuming the remaining three after I got back from vacation. I don't know what he did or how he did it, but somehow, while I was on vacation, I realized that I was cured! In the course of just two treatments, Dr. Donath managed to take away my pain. All of my symptoms just disappeared! I was actually able to yawn! And bite into an apple! It's so rare these days to have a medical experience where one's expectations are truly met and fulfilled; leaving you feeling gratified and satisfied. But when those expectations are exceeded by a level of such professionalism by a doctor who combines it with a rare dose of sincerity and caring, I have to feel as though I was very fortunate indeed to have been treated my Dr. Donath.
Suzanne S. Greenwich, CT