A Natural Treatment for Trigeminal Neuralgia

What Is Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia is a disorder involving one of the12 pairs of cranial nerves, the nerves that run down both sides of your head. The 5th cranial nerve is called the trigeminal nerve. The trigeminal nerve is the largest of the cranial nerves and allows you to feel sensations in your face.

When the trigeminal nerve is injured or irritated, it can cause severe, excruciating facial pain along the nerve pathway. The pain is usually on one side of the face only (although it can affect both sides of the face).

The trigeminal nerve has three main branches: an ophthalmic branch which goes to the eye, nose and forehead, a maxillary branch that goes through the upper teeth, gums and cheeks, and a mandibular branch that runs through the lower jaw, teeth and gums.

Trigeminal neuralgia can affect any of these three branches of the trigeminal nerve. Many people who first develop trigeminal neuralgia think they are suffering from an infected tooth.

Trigeminal neuralgia has been described as one of the most painful conditions known to humanity.

Older medical texts referred to it by its French name, tic douloureux, which literally means “painful tic”.

Some of our trigeminal neuralgia patients describe it as being like a lightning storm in their jaw.

Trigeminal neuralgia causes sharp, shooting, electric pain so intense it can literally bring you to your knees.

A trigeminal neuralgia flare up can happen anywhere from a few times a month, to a few times per day.

It can be triggered by chewing, brushing teeth, or even a light touch to the face or jaw.

During a flare up, the pain can be so excruciating that it can interfere with daily life.

Someone suffering with trigeminal neuralgia may have difficulty talking, walking, or doing much of anything.

It is so bad that it used to be labelled “the suicide disease” (which is not a label we endorse).

What Causes Trigeminal Neuralgia?

Trigeminal neuralgia is typically caused by compression or damage to the trigeminal nerve.

A common cause of trigeminal neuralgia is compression of the trigeminal nerve by arteries and veins in the head. Over time, this irritates the nerve, causing it to misfire and send out pain signals.

Trigeminal neuralgia may also be caused by multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune condition that damages the myelin sheath, the outer covering that protects and insulates nerve fibers.

Another possible cause of trigeminal neuralgia is physical injury to the face. And in rare cases, it may be caused by a tumor putting pressure on the nerve.

The cause of a particular trigeminal neuralgia case may also be undetermined. This is called “idiopathic trigeminal neuralgia”.

Conventional Treatments for Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal Neuralgia is typically treated with anti-seizure drugs like carbamazepine, or opioids.

These medications may not work for everyone, and they do not address the underlying causes of trigeminal neuralgia pain.

Even if they do work, medications can come with significant side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, or even depression.

Acupuncture: A Natural Treatment for Trigeminal Neuralgia

Fortunately, there are also safe, effective, natural treatments for trigeminal neuralgia.

One of the most effective treatments for trigeminal neuralgia pain is acupuncture.

Acupuncture works by regulating pain signaling in the brain and releasing pain killing neurotransmitters. This can soothe trigeminal neuralgia pain and “rewire” a malfunctioning trigeminal nerve.

Acupuncture also reduces inflammation and optimizes blood flow, which can help to repair and regenerate damaged nerve tissue.

In 2022, a systematic review and meta-analysis of 58 randomized controlled trials with 4,126 participants found that acupuncture was superior to medication in reducing trigeminal neuralgia pain.

Another study of 116 patients with trigeminal neuralgia found that acupuncture not only significantly decreased pain, but also improved cognitive function and overall quality of life.

The relief from acupuncture is extremely long lasting. A 2017 longitudinal study of 60 patients found that acupuncture outperformed medication in trigeminal neuralgia pain reduction, and that pain relief after a course of treatment was maintained six months later.

Acupuncture for Trigeminal Neuralgia

Research supports acupuncture as a safe and extremely effective treatment for trigeminal neuralgia. Its ability to offer lasting pain relief without the drawbacks of medications make it an attractive option for patients dealing with chronic TN pain. If trigeminal neuralgia pain is poorly controlled with medications, adding an acupuncturist to your healthcare team may significantly improve your quality of life.

Medical Disclaimer

 The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It should not be interpreted as medical advice or a substitute for individualized care from a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult your licensed practitioner before making any changes to your health regimen.

About the Author

Dr. Joshua Park, DSOM, L.Ac

Dr. Park is a licensed acupuncturist with a doctorate in East Asian Medicine, specializing in pain management and neurological conditions. He is the clinical director of Empowered You Acupuncture in Orange County, California, and is an adjunct professor at Virginia University of Integrative Medicine. His clinical approach combines classical Chinese herbal formulas with current research on neuroplasticity to help patients enjoy a better quality of life.