Trigeminal Neuralgia in Valencia & Encino

Trigeminal Neuralgia is often described as one of the most painful experiences a person can have, significantly impacting quality of life. Our neurosurgeons at California Neurosurgical Institute are highly trained specialists who can diagnose and treat this condition at the nerve root, helping you face life with renewed confidence and comfort.

Neuralgia Means Nerve Pain

Trigeminal Neuralgia involves sudden, severe, and often shock-like facial pain. This pain can be sporadic, with episodes lasting from a few seconds to a few minutes. Even mild stimulation can trigger a jolt of pain. The condition can affect one side of your face and may intensify over time, with more frequent and longer-lasting attacks. Some people experience ongoing pain between episodes, which can feel like a constant burning sensation.

Symptoms of Trigeminal Neuralgia

Sudden, severe, electric shock-like pain in the face
Pain triggered by activities like chewing, talking, or even feeling a breeze
Episodes of intense pain that last from seconds to minutes
Bouts of pain that come and go throughout the day or over weeks and months
Pain typically on one side of the face, often around the jaw, cheek, or eye

These symptoms can be incredibly debilitating, causing fear of future attacks and avoidance of daily activities. Seeking medical attention if you experience these symptoms is crucial, as effective treatment can provide significant relief.

Personalized Treatment Plans

At California Neurosurgical Institute, we understand the profound impact Trigeminal Neuralgia can have on your daily life. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing personalized care, starting with a thorough assessment to identify the root cause of your pain and tailor a treatment plan specifically for you.

Non-Surgical Options

California Neurosurgical Institute prescribes surgery only as a last resort after all other treatments have failed to work. Medications such as anticonvulsants and muscle relaxants are often the first line of treatment before considering surgery. These medications can help control the pain by stabilizing the nerve activity that causes Trigeminal Neuralgia. For those who do not respond to medications, nerve blocks can temporarily disrupt the pain signals from the trigeminal nerve.

Surgical Treatments

If medications and nerve blocks do not provide sufficient relief, surgery might be recommended. California Neurosurgical Institute offers advanced surgical options to target the source of your pain with precision and care.

Microvascular Decompression (MVD): MVD is a procedure that involves repositioning or removing blood vessels that are compressing the trigeminal nerve, offering a long-term solution with the potential to alleviate pain without numbness.
Gamma Knife Radiosurgery: This non-invasive option uses targeted radiation to damage the trigeminal nerve fibers, reducing or stopping pain without the need for incisions.
Percutaneous (through the skin) Procedures: Minimally invasive procedures, such as glycerol injections (a type of alcohol-based nerve irritant), radiofrequency lesioning, or balloon compression, can provide significant pain relief by selectively damaging or disrupting the nerve fibers that are causing the pain.

Compassionate Care at California Neurosurgical Institute

At California Neurosurgical Institute, we prioritize compassionate care and a personalized approach. We know how disruptive trigeminal neuralgia can be, and we’re committed to guiding you through the treatment process to achieve relief and renewed self-confidence. Our expert team of neurosurgeons brings world-class expertise to the local communities of Valencia and Encino. We use the latest technologies and surgical techniques in our top-tier facilities in both locations, so you can rest assured you are receiving the highest level of care.