What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by short, sudden bursts of pain in the face. The condition is caused by compression or irritation of the trigeminal nerve, the nerve that communicates signals between the brain and the face regarding sensations such as touch, temperature, chewing, and swallowing.
Trigeminal neuralgia can be a stressful and debilitating condition.
Signs and Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia pain is described by sufferers as sudden, sharp, and stabbing—almost like that of an electric shock. It usually only occurs on one side of the face but may occur on both sides for some patients. The pain may be brief, lasting only seconds or minutes at most, but it is quite severe.
Trigeminal neuralgia pain can be triggered by a touch of the face, shaving, washing, brushing teeth, or chewing. In some severe cases, a strong gust of wind is all that is needed to trigger an episode of pain.
People living with trigeminal neuralgia are also at risk of mental health issues, as the unexpected sudden jolts of extreme pain can cause stress, anxiety, and depression.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Trigeminal Neuralgia
The trigeminal nerve is the fifth cranial nerve and one of the largest cranial nerves. It exits the brain stem from near the back of the neck, then branches around both sides of the face.
The upper cervical spine begins just below the brain stem, right along where these large clusters of nerves run. It is comprised of the seven uppermost vertebrae that run from the base of the skull through the neck.
When the vertebrae of the upper cervical spine are misaligned, it can cause inflammation, swelling, and compression of the nerves. If the trigeminal nerve is compressed or pinched, it can cause trigeminal neuralgia, as well as other facial disorders.
How Our Trigeminal Neuralgia Treatment In Los Angeles Works
Some healthcare providers treat trigeminal neuralgia using medication, injections, or surgery. Unfortunately, these treatments don’t have a high success rate and barely help manage attacks. There is a safe, more natural alternative to treating trigeminal neuralgia: upper cervical spine chiropractic treatment.
As mentioned, even minute misalignments of the upper cervical spine can result in a compressed trigeminal nerve. Since the upper cervical area is a complex area to treat, we at Los Angeles Upper Cervical recommend a specialist. Dr. Alex Bello specializes in the upper cervical spine and is an expert in the Blair Chiropractic Technique.
The Blair technique is focused on the health and alignment of the upper cervical spine through the use of advanced diagnostic tools and safe, minimal-force manipulations. Dr. Bello uses state-of-the-art 3D imaging tools far superior to the traditional black-and-white X-rays to help him examine and calculate misalignments in the upper cervical area. The doctor can then make corrections with more precision and a gentler touch.
Once the spine is properly aligned, patients usually experience relief from symptoms. The body’s natural processes then take over and facilitate healing and proper nerve functioning.
If you suffer from a painful condition like trigeminal neuralgia in Los Angeles, don’t let it steal your enjoyment of life. Contact Dr. Bello for a consultation. Dr. Bello offers upper cervical chiropractic care to patients in Brentwood, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, Culver City, Marina Del Rey, West Los Angeles, and the surrounding areas.