Neuralgias

Neuralgias are conditions involving pain along the path of a nerve, and can involve any part of the body. Trigeminal neuralgia is the most common form of neuralgia. It involves sudden, severe pain on one side of the face, near the trigeminal nerve. The pain may be severe enough to cause facial tics--brief, rapid, repetitive movements often resembling nervous mannerisms). Postherpetic neuralgia can occur as a result of herpes infections such as shingles. Neuralgias other than trigeminal neuralgia and postherpetic neuralgia are rare.

Signs and Symptoms

• Sharp, burning, stabbing, or constant pain on the surface of the body and/or along the path of a specific nerve
• Pain after moving, touching, or applying pressure to specific areas of the body
• Increased sensitivity of the skin

Causes

The cause of neuralgias may be injury or irritation of the nerve, pressure on the nerve from a blood vessel or small tumor, and/or complications resulting from disorders such as multiple sclerosis. However, in many cases the cause is unknown or unidentifiable. Neuralgias can occur at any age, but are commonly noted in elderly persons.

Neuralgias may trigger a spasm of excruciating and burning pain after certain movements such as speech, chewing, swallowing, or touching an area of the face. In some cases, even a breeze blowing on the affected area can cause pain.

Integrative Medicine Treatment Options

We combine the best of conventional medicine with the best of complementary and alternative therapies to give you optimal results.

Here are some options we use at the Alliance Institute for Integrative Medicine LOCATED IN Cincinnati, Ohio

• Acupuncture
• Herbal Therapies, Supplements & Medication
• Mind/Body Relaxation Techniques
• Energy Healing
• Nutritional Counseling
• Frequency Specific Microcurrent