Trigeminal neuralgia, also known as "facial pain," occurs suddenly without any warning signs. It is often unilateral, and patients frequently avoid touching their face, eating, and even swallowing saliva for fear of triggering the pain. The treatment methods for trigeminal neuralgia include oral medication and external therapy. So, can trigeminal neuralgia be treated with tuina massage?
Can Trigeminal Neuralgia be Treated with Tuina Massage?
Yes, trigeminal neuralgia can be treated with tuina massage.
Trigeminal neuralgia refers to the recurrent episodes of paroxysmal and intense pain in the distribution area of the trigeminal nerve in the face. It can be classified into primary and secondary types. The onset is usually after middle age, and it is more common in females. Tuina massage has a better effect on treating primary trigeminal neuralgia.
Clinical Manifestations of Trigeminal Neuralgia
1. The attacks occur suddenly, and the pain is severe when the patient washes their face, rinses their mouth, or eats.
2. The pain is paroxysmal and feels like lightning. It can be described as sharp, stabbing, or burning. It may be accompanied by muscle spasms, tearing, nasal discharge, and salivation on the affected side.
3. The attacks are brief, lasting only a few seconds or minutes, and there are no symptoms during the remission period.
Basic Techniques of Trigeminal Neuralgia Tuina Massage
1. Extend the wrist backward and place the base of the palm on the forehead or cheek. Use the elbow joint to swing the forearm and wrist back and forth while moving it repeatedly on the forehead or cheek.
2. Use the fingertips of the thumb or other fingers to knead the acupoints on the head and face or apply pressure along the meridians.
3. Use the fingertips to rub the surface of the facial skin quickly and gently, generating local heat.
4. Separate the fingers naturally, and use the fingertips in a comb-like manner to gently stroke and massage the face.
Tuina Acupressure Points for Trigeminal Neuralgia
Treatment principles: Harmonize Qi and blood, promote meridian circulation, and relieve pain.
Tuina acupressure points: Zan Zhu (in the face, in the depression of the eyebrow), Yang Bai (on the head, one inch above the pupil, above the eyebrow), Yu Yao (on the head, above the pupil, between the eyebrows), Si Bai (in the face, below the orbital foramen), Ju Liao (in the face, above the pupil, under the lower edge of the nasal ala, outside the nasolabial groove), Quan Liao (in the face, below the lower edge of the zygomatic bone, directly below the outer canthus), Jia Cheng Jiang (on the chin, on both sides of the midline, about 2.5 cm beside the corner of the mouth).
Tuina technique: 1. The patient sits upright, and the therapist uses the technique of "one-finger Zen" to massage Zan Zhu, Yang Bai, Yu Yao, Si Bai, Ju Liao, Quan Liao, Jia Cheng Jiang, Che Che, and Xia Guan points in a back-and-forth motion for about 10 minutes. 2. Press Feng Chi and Yi Feng points, applying pressure until aching and distention are felt. 3. Use a sweeping technique on both sides of the temporal area of the head, alternating between sides for about 10 minutes. 4. Use Nei Ting, Feng Chi, San Jian, and Nei Ting points.
Treatment and Care for Trigeminal Neuralgia
1. During treatment, it is advisable to focus on the painful points and use strong stimulation.
2. Be cautious in daily activities, avoid cold drafts, and avoid consuming stimulating foods.
