Trigeminal neuralgia pain is unlike that of any other condition. Describing your discomfort to others may be difficult. While this condition is rare, know that you are not alone. It is estimated that there are currently 15,000 cases per year. Trigeminal neuralgia affects women two times more frequently than men. Common characteristics of trigeminal neuralgia include –
– Severe, lancinating pain
– Pain on one side of the face (five times more common on the right side)
– Wincing, grimacing, or moving head during painful episodes
– Each episode lasts less than 20 seconds
The number of daily episodes varies with each patient. It typically varies between one episode and hundreds per day. Traditional management is often medication and surgery. These can be effective in the short-term, but patients are seeking non-invasive alternatives.
How is my neck related to my trigeminal neuralgia symptoms?
Your spine is responsible for protecting your spinal cord. Your spinal cord is responsible for sending signals to and from your brain. When the top bone in your neck (atlas) misaligns, it creates pressure in your spinal cord. When there is pressure in your spinal cord, the signals are distorted. This can potentially lead to trigeminal neuralgia symptoms.
I am trained in upper cervical chiropractic – a gentle, specific approach aimed at correcting the atlas. Upper cervical chiropractic is incredibly precise, and every correction is tailored to each individual patient. Through realignment of the atlas, there is reduced pressure on the spinal cord. This allows for proper signals to be sent to and from the brain. This may lead to a reduction in trigeminal neuralgia symptoms.
Kessinger et al. reported a case of a 14-year-old female who suffered from trigeminal neuralgia. After one upper cervical adjustment, she experienced complete remission of her symptoms. One year of care later, she was still asymptomatic.
