Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition which is characterized by facial pain primarily associated with damage or injury to the trigeminal nerve. Reports have suggested that acupuncture can be beneficial in the management of pain associated with trigeminal neuralgia. This article attempts to provide information about benefits of acupuncture in the management of trigeminal neuralgia.
Trigeminal neuralgia is a condition affecting the trigeminal nerve (the third cranial nerve), which is associated with severe and sporadic facial pain. The nerve has three branches and the pain may be experienced along any of the branch of the nerve. The condition is also referred to as ‘tic douloreaux’ primarily since the neuralgia is also associated with facial muscle spasm and pain. Here is some information about the use of acupuncture in the management of trigeminal neuralgia.
Causes Of Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is caused due to injury or damage to the third cranial nerve, which supplies to the muscles of the face. Trigeminal neuralgia is associated with severe, sporadic pain which may last for a few seconds to a few minutes.
The pain may be trigger by brushing teeth, applying makeup or even washing the face. Excessive heat, cold or stress and fatigue can also trigger an episode of trigeminal neuralgia. Unfortunately modern medicine has little to offer for the management of this condition. Acupuncture is considered to be useful in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia.
How Does Acupuncture Work For Trigeminal Neuralgia?
Acupuncture is based on the theory that under normal conditions energy flow through the body via specific pathways referred to as the meridians. Disease is the result of blockage of these pathways and can manifest in the form of pain. Fine needles are used to trigger some of the points along the path of these meridians to restore the flow of energy and alleviate pain and other symptoms of the disease.
Experts suggest that by using acupuncture one can promote the flow of energy and trigger blood circulation in the affected areas. This in turn can provide adequate nourishment to the nerves to promote healing and nerve repair. Proponents of acupuncture recommend using acupuncture in combination with herbal medicine to provide more comprehensive and sustained relief for the management of trigeminal neuralgia.
There are several acupuncture points on the face, which correlate with the branches of trigeminal nerve. By inserting fine needles on these points, acupuncture therapy can unblock the flow of energy. Modern acupuncture therapies may even use low voltage electricity to bolster their treatment therapy. It is said that about 10 to 15 sessions of acupuncture can help in providing long term relief from the symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia.
Benefits Of Acupuncture For Trigeminal Neuralgia
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese technique of management and there is adequate evidence about its contribution towards alleviating pain and symptoms of facial spasm associated with trigeminal neuralgia. Further, modern medicine fails to treat this distressing condition. Acupuncture has certain benefits,
- It is safe and has been proven to be beneficial in the management of trigeminal neuralgia.
- It can be used in combination with other treatment therapies, so as to enhance its efficacy.
- It not only helps in alleviating pain but also helps in reducing muscle spasm and improves movement of the jaw bones.