Neuropathic Pain Disorders, especially those that affect the head and neck, are typically caused by injury or illness that affects the nervous system. There are two parts of the human nervous system: the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system. Neuropathic Pain Disorders affect how both systems work together to relay information.
The human body relies on these two separate nervous systems that work together. The central nervous system includes the brain and spinal cord while the peripheral nervous system controls the nerves that go to the limbs, face and all outlying areas of the body. The nerves in the peripheral nervous system sense pain and they relay that information to the central nervous system for processing. Damage to nerves of either nervous system can cause pain signals to be sent to the brain, resulting in neuropathic pain.
These pain disorders are usually chronic and arise from the brain and nerves of the head, face, and neck. The most common neuropathies that affect the head and neck are known as trigeminal neuralgia, atypical odontalgia, and complex regional pain syndrome.
Signs and Symptoms of Neuropathic Pain Disorders
Neuropathic pain disorders can present themselves in many different ways. If you experience the following, you might be suffering from neuropathic pain:
- Recurring toothaches with no obvious dental reason
- Chronic or intermittent face pain
- Sensations of pain, aching, numbness, or tingling in the face, neck, mouth, tongue or lips
- Pain triggered by light touch or normal function
Diagnosing & Treating Neuropathic Pain Disorders
Diagnosing Neuropathic Pain Disorders can be tricky because not everyone has the same experience. At Westlake TMJ & Sleep, Dr. Borquez and his experienced team work with patients to determine the cause of their pain by going through their medical history and performing a number of diagnostic procedures — like X-Rays, MRI or CT Scans.
Once your condition is diagnosed, Dr. Borquez will utilize the latest technology and treatments from the Academy of Orofacial Pain and his involvement in the USC Orofacial Pain clinic as a clinical instructor. The most common treatments include topical ointments, medications, and biofeedback. In a lot of cases, treatment for Neuropathic Pain Disorders takes time and patience. It’s important not to be discouraged if the first round of treatment isn’t effective. Dr. Borquez works hand-in-hand with his patients to reduce pain and improve your life.
If you have undiagnosed facial pain and would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Borquez and his team at Westlake TMJ & Sleep in Westlake Village, CA please call (805) 277-0606. We also serve Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills, Camarillo, Calabasas, Oak Park, Newbury Park and the surrounding areas. You can click here to schedule a consultation online, or email info@westlaketmj.com for more information.
