Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, one of the largest nerves in your head. It causes sudden, severe, and stabbing pain in the face and can significantly impact your quality of life.
Fortunately, Ronak D. Patel, MD, and our team at Regenerative Spine and Pain Institute offer a variety of treatment options to help manage TN effectively.
Medications are often the first line of treatment for trigeminal neuralgia. Anticonvulsants, such as carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine, are commonly prescribed to reduce nerve pain. These medications work by calming overactive nerve signals, which helps control the intense facial pain.
In some cases, muscle relaxants may be added to enhance the effect. While medications can be highly effective for many, it’s possible to experience side effects or find that the effectiveness diminishes over time. You can learn more about medication management by clicking here.
When medications fail to provide relief or cause significant side effects, minimally invasive procedures can be an option. These include:
These procedures are typically outpatient and have shorter recovery times but may require repeat treatments if the pain returns.
If you have severe or refractory trigeminal neuralgia, surgical options may provide long-term relief. The most common surgical procedure is microvascular decompression (MVD).
This involves repositioning or removing blood vessels compressing the trigeminal nerve, offering potential long-lasting pain relief. Unlike minimally invasive procedures, MVD is more invasive and requires general anesthesia, but it’s considered one of the most effective treatments.
Another option is stereotactic radiosurgery (Gamma Knife), a noninvasive procedure that uses targeted radiation to damage the trigeminal nerve and reduce pain signals.
Complementary approaches like acupuncture, physical therapy, mindfulness, and dietary modifications may also help manage your symptoms alongside medical treatments. While these options don’t replace medical care, they can provide additional support in reducing pain and stress.
Trigeminal neuralgia affects everyone differently, so you should seek treatment at our practice where we personalize your plan. We work closely with you to find the best combination of treatments for your specific needs.
With advances in medical care and various effective treatments available, living well with trigeminal neuralgia is possible. Book a consultation with us online or by phone today to explore your options, and take the first step toward a more pain-free life. We have offices in Plainsboro Township, Manalapan, and Freehold, New Jersey.
