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Locations:
2418 E. York Street
Philadelphia, PA 19125
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170 N Henderson Rd # 310,
King of Prussia, PA 19406
What is Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which is one of the largest nerves in the face. It is characterized by sudden, severe, and often excruciating facial pain that typically lasts for a few seconds to a few minutes. The pain is usually felt on one side of the face, and it is often triggered by things like talking, eating, or even the act of washing one's face.
Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia include:
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Severe, sudden, and intense facial pain that lasts for a few seconds to a few minutes
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Pain that is triggered by things like talking, eating, or even the act of washing one's face
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Pain that is usually felt on one side of the face
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Frequent, recurrent episodes of pain
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In some cases, numbness or tingling on the affected side of the face
The cause of trigeminal neuralgia is not fully understood but it is often related to the injury of the trigeminal nerve. Trigeminal neuralgia is typically treated with medications, to manage the pain. Physical therapy, such as facial exercises, can also be helpful to manage the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia.
How We Treat Trigeminal Neuralgia
Physical therapy can be used as a complementary treatment option for managing the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia. Physical therapists can use various techniques to help reduce pain and improve function in people with trigeminal neuralgia.
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Some physical therapy techniques that may be used to treat trigeminal neuralgia include:
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Manual therapy: A physical therapist may use manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilization to help relieve pain and tension in the face, jaw and head.
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Facial exercises: A physical therapist may teach you specific exercises to help improve the range of motion and strength of the muscles in the face, jaw, and head, which can help to reduce pain and improve function.
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Education: A physical therapist may provide you with information about your condition, including how to manage triggers, relaxation techniques and stress management.
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Neuromodulation: A physical therapist may teach you about proper apply transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TENS) to reduce pain sensation arising from the trigeminal nerve.
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It's important to note that physical therapy alone may not fully alleviate the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia, it is often recommended to be used as a complementary therapy along with other treatments such as medication and procedures, as recommended by a medical professional.