Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, one of the most widely distributed nerves in the head. The condition causes extreme, sudden, shock-like episodes of facial pain that can last from a few seconds to several minutes. Even mild stimulation of the face, such as brushing teeth, eating, or a light breeze, can trigger an attack. The condition is most commonly caused by a blood vessel pressing on the trigeminal nerve near the brainstem, though it can also result from multiple sclerosis or other conditions that damage the nerve's protective myelin sheath. Trigeminal neuralgia most often affects people over age 50 and is more common in women. At Spinal Interventions, we offer specialized treatments for trigeminal neuralgia including nerve blocks, medication management, and other interventional procedures to reduce the frequency and severity of pain episodes and help patients regain comfort in daily activities.