Holistic Measures and Hope: Facing TN with Determination

Date: October 25th, 2023

When I used to think of a pill organizer, the word “elderly” often came to mind. I’ve been fortunate never to have to take a lot of prescriptions or vitamins, but that changed with my Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN) diagnosis. Today, my latest Amazon purchase arrived, all items centered around TN management.

First, a weekly AM/PM Travel Pill Organizer, designed to help me keep track of my daily regimen. With TN, it’s not just about taking a pill; it’s about timing. Some must be taken on an empty stomach, others with food, and some hours before bed. This organizer became essential to manage my TN effectively. You can find the one I settled on here.

In addition to this massive organizer, two supplements arrived, each with a specific purpose in my TN journey.

R-Alpha Lipoic Acid: This supplement aims to alleviate nerve pain. A clinical trial published in 2021 found that individuals experiencing pain of unknown origin reported less severe pain scores when taking between 400 milligrams and 800 milligrams of an oral ALA supplement compared to a placebo. You can read more about this research here.

B12: There’s a wealth of evidence supporting the idea that B12 can help mitigate nerve pain. I’ve decided to add this to my daily routine as well.

Today, after work, I paid a visit to my chiropractor. It had been almost 2 weeks since my last appointment, and I filled him in on the latest developments. We discussed the MRI results of my cervical spine, which revealed the presence of four bulging discs. I also shared my experience with the recent TN block, the lingering phantom pains, and daily headaches.

My chiropractor expressed his optimism about the possibility of TN remission. I’m an optimistic person, but when it comes to chiropractic care, I’m probably around 70% on the scale of confidence. I can’t help but think that there’s some irreversible damage done, and nothing can entirely rectify it. However, I wouldn’t invest my time and money in chiropractic care if I didn’t believe it could genuinely make a difference. I’m here because I have hope that it can help me on this journey.

In essence, today revolves around the holistic side of TN management – chiropractic care and supplements. It’s about covering all bases, leaving no stone unturned, and throwing everything at this formidable disease. Cue the Rocky music; I’m a fighter. As an Enneagram Type 3, TN, you’re up against a determined force.

As I navigate this path, I remain committed to exploring every avenue for relief and sharing my experiences along the way. Together, we can learn, adapt, and hopefully find answers and solace in the face of Trigeminal Neuralgia.

Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for being part of this journey.

P.S. Keep in mind that when considering supplements and alternative treatments, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance and ensure that they align with your specific medical situation and overall health.