Neuropathic Pain
Your spine shouldn't stop you from living your life.
From neck stiffness to persistent back pain and sciatica, spinal pain can quietly take over your daily life. At The Pain Clinic, we take the time to find the root cause — and work with you on a path forward that fits your life.
About Neuropathic Pain
Spinal pain is rarely just one thing.
It can show up as stiffness in the neck, a persistent ache in the lower back, shooting pain down the leg, or headaches that won’t go away. The causes are just as varied — and so are the paths to relief. Below are the most common spinal conditions we treat. Select a condition to learn more, or chat with our team if you’re not sure where your pain fits.
Common questions
Before you book
What causes facial pain?
Facial pain, particularly that associated with trigeminal neuralgia, is most commonly caused by a malfunction in the trigeminal nerve, which is the primary nerve responsible for sensations in the face. While the exact cause may vary, often it can be attributed to a blood vessel pressing against the nerve, leading to severe, sharp facial pain. Rarely, other causes such as a tumour or nerve damage due to disease can also contribute to facial pain. Treatment is often sought for this condition.
What are the common symptoms of trigeminal neuralgia?
Trigeminal neuralgia presents with several characteristic symptoms. The most prominent one is a sudden, severe, sharp or stabbing facial pain. The pain often occurs in bouts and may be triggered by everyday activities like talking, eating, brushing teeth, or even a gentle breeze. The attacks may last from a few seconds to a few minutes, and they can occur repeatedly throughout the day. In some cases, patients may also experience a burning sensation or numbness in the face. Treatment is usually required to combat the intense discomfort associated with this condition.
What is the treatment for trigeminal neuralgia?
Treatment for trigeminal neuralgia aims to relieve the symptoms and manage the pain. The standard first-line treatment is medication management, including drugs such as carbamazepine, gabapentin, or pregabalin. These medications help in reducing the nerve’s response, thus relieving pain.
However, if medication fails to provide relief or causes significant side effects, other treatments such as Radiofrequency Ablation may be considered. This treatment involves inserting a special needle into the trigeminal ganglion and using radiofrequency energy to create heat, which destroys the painful division of the trigeminal nerve.
For cases where trigeminal neuralgia is caused by a blood vessel or tumour pressing on the nerve, referral to a neurosurgeon is needed. They may recommend surgical intervention to remove the pressure on the nerve. The choice of treatment depends on the individual’s health, severity of symptoms, and their response to medication. Always consult with a specialist for the best-suited treatment for your condition.
Still have questions?
Reach us by phone, email, or WhatsApp. We typically respond within one business day.