Trigeminal neuralgia patient finds relief through new treatment

Natisha Long, a mother of four living in the United States, has found relief from trigeminal neuralgia after years of debilitating facial pain. The condition, sometimes referred to as a “suicide disease” due to its extreme intensity, began in 2018 with tingling sensations in her upper jaw.

Initially misdiagnosed as dental issues, Long experienced electric shock-like pains and throbbing that eventually spread to her lower jaw. The pain was so sensitive that even a light breeze against her face or simple tasks like brushing teeth and smiling triggered severe attacks. While medications like gabapentin and carbamazepine provided temporary relief, they eventually became less effective.

After a brain surgery failed to provide permanent relief, Long underwent a new procedure at University Hospitals in Ohio. The treatment, known as OneRF, utilizes radiofrequency energy and lasted approximately 30 minutes. Following the procedure, Long reported significant relief from the chronic pain.