Trigeminal Neuralgia and the Upper Cervical Spine: A Natural Treatment Option
Trigeminal neuralgia is a debilitating condition causing intense facial pain. Research suggests the upper cervical spine may play a critical role in its onset and treatment. Understanding this connection provides hope for patients searching for solutions.
What Is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia is characterized by sudden, severe facial pain. It often affects one side of the face and involves three key branches of the trigeminal nerve:
- Ophthalmic (V1): Around the eyes.
- Maxillary (V2): The cheeks and upper palate.
- Mandibular (V3): The lower jaw and movement.
Pain arises from the trigeminal nerve’s interactions with brainstem nuclei, some of which extend into the upper neck.
Upper Cervical Spine and Trigeminal Neuralgia
Why the Neck Matters
The upper cervical spine houses critical nerves and blood vessels. Misalignments in this region can create tension or stenosis, affecting nerve function and fluid flow. These changes may disrupt the trigeminal nerve’s pathways, causing facial pain.
Key Research Findings
A recent study highlighted cases of trigeminal neuralgia linked to cervical stenosis. Surgical intervention at C2-C3 and C3-C4 resolved symptoms in 100% of patients in the study, with no recurrence after seven months reinforces the connection between upper cervical issues and trigeminal neuralgia.
Symptoms of Cervical Stenosis Affecting the Trigeminal Nerve
- Facial pain or burning sensations
- Headaches and migraines
- Dizziness or brain fog
- Neck stiffness or limited mobility
- TMJ (jaw) pain
If you are looking for best upper cervical chiropractors in Spokane to help with trigeminal neuralgia, contact our office at 509-315-8166 to request an appointment.
Understanding Cervical Stenosis and Its Role
Cervical stenosis refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, compressing nerves and impeding cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow. In the upper cervical spine, stenosis can influence the trigeminal nerve due to its extended pathways into the spinal cord.
Even subtle misalignments or injuries to the upper cervical region can cause tension, affecting nearby nerves and vessels.
Conservative Approaches to Trigeminal Neuralgia
Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care
Upper cervical chiropractic care restores proper alignment, relieving tension and restoring function to the upper neck. This precise and gentle approach addresses the root cause without invasive procedures.
Imaging for Diagnosis
Advanced imaging, like Digital Motion X-ray (DMX) or Cone Beam CT, detects misalignments and stenosis in the cervical spine. These tools allow tailored treatments for optimal outcomes.
Adjunctive Therapies
- Physical Therapy: Strengthens neck muscles and improves posture.
- Neuromuscular Rehabilitation: Enhances nerve function and coordination.
- Dietary Changes: Reduces inflammation contributing to neuralgia.
Surgical Options: When Necessary
For severe cases of stenosis causing trigeminal neuralgia, surgical options like anterior cervical decompression may be recommended. These procedures address structural issues contributing to nerve irritation.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Addressing upper cervical misalignments early can prevent the progression of symptoms. For patients with facial pain and no apparent brain abnormalities, evaluating the upper neck is critical.