Trigeminal Neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia is a debilitating condition that primarily targets the lower face and jaw. A painful condition akin to an electric shock passing through your face, trigeminal neuralgia occurs when the trigeminal nerve, which moves sensation between the brain and face, is irritated. At ACT Wellness Center in Woodbridge, VA, Dr. Carmelo Caratozzolo is passionate about helping his patients manage their pain, including those suffering from trigeminal neuralgia. 

Causes

Trigeminal neuralgia develops when the trigeminal nerve faces pressure. This happens when the nerve comes in contact with an artery or vein, when the nerve has a tumor, or when a person has Multiple sclerosis (MS). 

Symptoms and Triggers

Trigeminal neuralgia has two types of symptoms: Type I and Type II. 

Type Ⅰ:

Sharp throbbing pin-like pain is usually triggered by touching an area of the body. 

Type Ⅱ:

Less extreme symptoms like burning sensations or dull aching pain on the face. 

Triggers:

Trigeminal neuralgia is spontaneous for many patients. Many attack triggers include daily activities such as shaving, brushing teeth, eating, scratching the face, smiling, sipping cold or hot drinks, blowing the nose, crying, and much more. 

How Chiropractic Care Helps

Chiropractic care is all about the mind and body. At ACT Wellness Center in Woodbridge, VA, this holistic approach is no different. We believe in strengthening the entire body to end the negative symptoms of many illnesses. Dr. Caratozzolo recommends plenty of exercises, a healthy diet, and avoiding foods like caffeine and sugar which are prone to triggering trigeminal neuralgia. Since trigeminal neuralgia is a nerve condition, Dr. Caratozzolo will perform spinal adjustments to help relieve the pain. When a spine is misaligned, nerves are interfering with the spinal cord and blocking the brain from sending signals all over the body. This is why spinal adjustments are beneficial to reduce any pain you’re experiencing, including trigeminal neuralgia.

To learn more, contact Dr. Carmelo Caratozzolo at ACT Wellness Center at 14111 Minnieville Road, Woodbridge, Virginia. Call 703-491-9355 today.