Living with Trigeminal Neuralgia: A Personal Journey and Treatment Protocol
- Suzan D. Walker LMT 104331
- Oct 12
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 16
Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is often referred to as the "suicide disease" due to the intense pain it causes. For me, it is a reality of excruciating, mentally exhausting, and physically debilitating pain. I want to share my personal experience along holistic strategies that have helped me manage this condition. If you are struggling with TN, know that you are not alone and there are ways to help find relief.
My Journey with Trigeminal Neuralgia
My TN began in August 2015, triggered by a jaw infection and complicated by chronic Lyme disease. The condition affects both sides of my face and has required multiple dental surgeries. Over time, I've come to understand that TN impacts every aspect of my life, not just nerve pain.
What Flare-Ups Feel Like
Electrical, shooting pains that sometimes feel like acid burning through the nerves
Facial drooping during severe flare-ups
Blurred vision and eye disturbances
Mental exhaustion and emotional fatigue
Headaches are sometimes previant
Numbness along the nose cheek and ear then to the side of the neck (the path of the 5th trigeminal nerve)
Flares up can last for hours if not days or weeks.
Common Triggers
Stress and anxiety
Constant chewing
Eating hard textured foods.
Hot or cold foods can trigger a flare up
Changes in weather such as barometric pressure and temperature fluxuations
Shingles flare-ups
Lack of rest or overexertion
Food allergies
Managing Flare-Ups: What Works for Me
Managing TN requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are the strategies I have found most effective:
Immediate Relief
Ice or Heat Packs: Ice reduces inflammation, while heat helps relax tense muscles.
Rest and Quiet: A calm environment is crucial during a flare-up.
Topical Applications: Tei Fu oil applied gently to the affected area can help soothe nerve pain.
Sound Therapy: Binaural beats and cymatones can help calm nerve pain and reduce stress.
Holistic and Alternative Therapies
Cranio-Psychotherapy: Gentle, targeted therapy can release tension along the trigeminal nerve pathways.
Avazzia Microcurrent Therapy: Helps regulate nerve signaling and reduce flare intensity. A strong support system and guidance from a practitioner familiar with Avazzia therapy improve results.
Ultrasound Therapy, Acupuncture, and Biomagnetics: Reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and relieve pain.
Magnetic Face Mask can calm nerve irritation during flare-ups.
Red and Blue light Therapy
Nutritional and Supplement Support
Vitamin and Mineral Support: Vitamins B, C, D, and magnesium (malate form) support nerve health.
Anti-Inflammatory Measures: Ice packs, ginger supplements, angelic creams, and other anti-inflammatory strategies reduce flare severity.
Medication: Prescribed medications from your doctor are often necessary to control severe pain.
Medical Cannabis
Medical cannabis has shown promise in helping reduce both the intensity and frequency of TN attacks. Studies have found that many people with TN tolerate it well, with over 80% reporting improvement and half of patients able to reduce their use of opioids. In some cases, cannabinoid treatment has been shown to cut pain levels by more than 50% within a month.
Silver Nanoparticle (Nano-Silver) Therapy
Silver nanoparticles are being studied for their potential to support nerve health, reduce pain, and help fight infections. While research is still ongoing, these tiny particles may offer additional ways to manage TN symptoms and support overall facial nerve wellness.
The Importance of Support
Living with TN is incredibly challenging, and having a strong support system is essential. Friends, family, and caregivers can help with daily tasks during flare-ups. Equally important is finding a neurologist who listens and someone who can monitor comorbidities, guide medical treatments, and coordinate holistic approaches.
Understanding Trigeminal Neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic neurological condition affecting the trigeminal nerve in the face. It can be triggered by:
Dental procedures or infections
Shingles flare-ups
Lyme disease or other systemic infections
Nutritional deficiencies
Other traumas to the face and nerves
Effects on Daily Life
TN affects more than just the face. It can impact quality of life, social interactions, and emotional well-being. Severe flare-ups can cause:
Electrical shock-like pain
Facial drooping
Blurred vision
Emotional distress
Eye Pain
Scientific and Holistic Approaches
Managing TN requires combining conventional and complementary strategies. Here’s what I’ve found scientifically supported or effective in holistic therapy:
Vitamin and mineral supplementation: B, C, D, magnesium (malate)
Anti-inflammatory approaches: Ice, ginger, angelic creams
Energy and microcurrent therapies: Avazzia, biomagnetics, craniosacral therapy
Sound therapy: Binaural beats and cymatones to calm the nervous system
Alternative therapies: Acupuncture, ultrasound therapy, magnetic masks, Relight Therapy
For some people, surgery may offer relief, while others find lasting improvements through consistent holistic care.
A Message of Hope
Living with TN requires patience, grace, and consistent self-care. While flare-ups can feel unbearable, combining scientific strategies with holistic approaches can provide meaningful relief.
If you are struggling with TN:
You are not alone
Both conventional and holistic treatments can help
Self-care, rest, and listening to your body are essential
A strong support system and a neurologist who listens can make a huge difference in your health management plan.
With mindfulness, patience, and appropriate interventions, it is possible to reduce the intensity and frequency of flare-ups. Life with TN is challenging, but relief and improved quality of life are achievable.
With care and Support,
Suzan (Susan) Walker LMT
Massage therapy is not a substitution for medical treatment. The massage therapist cannot diagnose, treat or prevent disease. The therapist can only recommend products and services. Please consult a medical physician for further treatment.
Copyright © 2007-2027. Connective Integration Massage Therapy by Suzan Walker, LMT. All rights reserved. DMCA Protected. Suzan (Susan) Walker TX LIC#MT104431
Resources: