People suffering from trigeminal neuralgia feel unexpected pain in the face. This pain is triggered by routine activities such as shaving, applying makeup or brushing the teeth. Initially, attacks may be very short; however, as the pain progresses, episodes can last longer and happen more often. This pain is caused by pressure on the trigeminal nerve, which resides at the base of the brain. Trigeminal neuralgia may result from the aging process or from the presence of a tumor pressing on the nerve. According to the Mayo Clinic, alternative treatments may provide some relief.
Acupuncture
During an acupuncture treatment, the acupuncturist will insert very thin needles into specific points in the body to reduce pain. It's believed that when energy channels are blocked in the body, health issues can occur. The needles "unblock" the channels, which reduces pain.
Biofeedback
Biofeedback therapies focus on training the mind to control the way it responds to pain, according to the National Pain Foundation. This therapy allows the patient to tune into areas of pain, and use techniques to relax the areas and relieve pain naturally.
Vitamins and Supplements
According to the National Pain Foundation, taking a B6 or B12 supplement may be helpful in controlling pain. Although more research is needed in the area of supplementation, talk with your doctor about the benefits of supplements.
Relaxation Therapies
Using breathing techniques to relax the body and distract the mind from pain may provide some benefit to patients, according to the National Pain Foundation.
Practice relaxing breaths by taking a deep breath through the nose and letting it out through the mouth while counting to eight. Breathing steadily and slowly may help relax the muscles and reduce pain in trigeminal neuralgia patients.
When to Call a Doctor
When using alternative treatments, make sure to partner closely with your medical provider. If facial pain doesn't subside, consider other treatment options such as anticonvulsant medications or alcohol injections.
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