Trigeminal neuralgia is a medical condition comprehended by episodic shocks of sharp pain in the face, described to be one of the most severe types of pain. Primarily, it affects the face, but many patients ask if it causes pain in other places, like the neck and shoulders. In this blog post, we will discuss how trigeminal nerve pain could lead to pain in the neck and shoulders and the possible treatments available.
What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia is a type of disorder affecting the nerve that controls sensation in the face. The trigeminal nerve disorder causes episodic, sharp, severe pain in the jaw or cheek and lips and can even be around the eyes, which is usually caused by acts such as eating, talking, or even rubbing the face.
There are various types of neuralgia and each with specific symptoms and causes. The two main neuralgia types are therefore: Typical Trigeminal Neuralgia and Atypical Trigeminal Neuralgia.
– Typical Trigeminal Neuralgia:
This is the most common form and usually occurs as sharp, stabbing pain in one region of the face.
– Atypical Trigeminal Neuralgia:
These manifestations consist of dull, constant pain and are less common. The pain might also be more widespread and may involve several parts of the face.
Does Trigeminal Neuralgia Cause Neck and Shoulder Pain?
While trigeminal neuralgia mainly affects the face, there are instances where it can cause pain in the neck and shoulders. This is due to the anatomical relationship between the trigeminal nerve and the cervical nerve roots, which control the muscles of the neck and shoulders.
Here’s how trigeminal neuralgia may lead to neck and shoulder pain:
- Referred pain:
At times, the pain coming through the trigeminal nerve will be so severe that people will refer it to other areas, for instance, the neck and the back. The nerves interplay with each other. Trigeminal nerve irritation means that it can cause some parts of the body to become unbearable.
- Muscle Tension:
The pain from trigeminal neuralgia may cause you to tense up your neck and shoulder muscles to avoid facial pain. Over time, this constant tension can result in pain in the neck and shoulder area.
- Bilateral Trigeminal Neuralgia:
It is possible to have pain on both sides of the face from trigeminal neuralgia. This may be referred to as bilateral trigeminal neuralgia and can make for more widespread overall pain and tension, which makes neck and shoulder pain more likely.
How Does Trigeminal Neuralgia Impact the Face?
Trigeminal neuralgia primarily affects the pain in face muscles. The trigeminal nerve is responsible for sensations like touch and pain in the face. When the nerve becomes highly compressed or irritated, it can lead to sudden, severe pain. This pain typically occurs in the following areas:
- Jaw
- Cheeks
- Eyelids
- Around the mouth
According to trigeminal neuralgia specialists it can be triggered by something as simple as talking, chewing, or brushing your teeth. This makes everyday activities very difficult for those who suffer from this condition.
Trigeminal Neuralgia Diagnosis
Trigeminal nerve disorder diagnosis becomes the duty of a neuro specialist Hyderabad or any qualified neurologist. The doctor may question the symptoms, conduct a physical exam, and investigate the specific problems with the help of MRI or CT scans to confirm the exclusion of other states.
If you suspect that you have trigeminal neuralgia, it is essential to see a trigeminal neuralgia specialist or the best neurosurgeon in Hyderabad who can give an appropriate diagnosis and adequate treatment plan.
Trigeminal Neuralgia Treatment
Trigeminal neuralgia treatment usually involves drugs, lifestyle changes, and surgery. Some people also consider trigeminal neuralgia natural treatment options.
1. Medication
– Anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine are commonly used to regulate pain.
– Muscle relaxants or antidepressants can also be used to treat nerve pain.
2. Surgical Interventions
– In some cases, severe conditions are treated with surgical interventions, such as microvascular decompression, which removes pressure on the trigeminal nerve.
3. Lifestyle Changes
– Avoiding triggers such as touching the face or consuming hot/cold foods can help manage the pain.
4. Trigeminal Neuralgia Exercises
– Exercise for trigeminal neuralgia can relieve tension in the neck, shoulders, and face muscles. Gentle stretches and exercises may improve blood flow and reduce muscle stiffness, which could help with both facial and referred pain.
– Some patients find some comfort in performing exercises to relieve trigeminal neuralgia, like yoga or stretching the neck and shoulders.
5. Natural Remedies
– Acupuncture, massage therapy, and herbal supplements are some natural remedies that can be easily used to help alleviate symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia. But always seek advice from the best neurologist in Hyderabad like Dr. Raveesh Sunkara before using any natural remedy.
How Do You Calm Down Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Some methods used to calm down trigeminal neuralgia are:
– Medication: The patient can be advised to take prescribed anticonvulsants or pain relievers.
– Heat or Cold: By Applying a warm or cold compress to the face may help reduce the pain.
– Rest: Getting enough sleep and avoiding stress helps reduce pain flare-ups.
– Mild Stretching Activities: Stretching exercises for the neck and face may help the muscles relax a bit and be less pain-causing.
Why Visit an Expert Regarding Trigeminal Neuralgia?
If you’re suffering from trigeminal nerve pain, make sure to look for a specialist in trigeminal neuralgia near me. Through proper care at a doctor’s office from a specialised expert, your pain is likely to be better controlled.
Dr. Raveesh Sunkara is one of the best neurosurgeons in Hyderabad who will be helpful to you in finding the best treatment plan according to your requirements for trigeminal neuralgia.
Book Your Consultation!
Trigeminal neuralgia is one of the most difficult conditions that could bring about severe pain in the face, neck, and even shoulders. If you are suffering from this, then it is high time you consult a neuro specialist in Hyderabad like Dr. Raveesh Sunkara. Understand the condition, discuss your options for treatment, and work closely with the right people to deal with the pain and get better.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia, don’t wait to consult a specialist. Early and correct treatment can make a significant difference in your recovery!
FAQs
1. What causes trigeminal neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia occurs when a blood vessel or tumour compresses the trigeminal nerve that carries sensation to the face. The pressure on this nerve creates pain that can be sharp and shooting.
2. Can trigeminal neuralgia cause pain in the neck and shoulders?
Indeed, in some cases, the pain of trigeminal neuralgia will irradiate the neck and even shoulders because of muscular tension or referred pain.
3. What is the best treatment for trigeminal neuralgia?
Treatment, of course, varies with the severity of the case. It may be through medication, surgical or physical therapy. Consulting a trigeminal neuralgia specialist will help determine the best approach.
4. Do natural remedies assist with trigeminal neuralgia?
Some people find help through trigeminal neuralgia natural treatment like acupuncture, yoga, or herbal supplements. However, remember to talk with your physician before trying alternative treatments.
5. How to calm down trigeminal neuralgia?
For relief of trigeminal neuralgia, you can take prescribed medications, apply warm or cold compresses on the affected area, do gentle neck and shoulder exercises, as well as rest and avoid triggers.
