Overview
The trigeminal nerve divides into three main branches supplying sensation to the forehead, cheeks and jaw. When this nerve becomes irritated or compressed, it can trigger severe facial pain, sharp shooting sensations, burning discomfort or sensitivity to touch. These symptoms may be persistent or occur in sudden bursts.
A trigeminal nerve block involves placing local anaesthetic, sometimes combined with steroid medication, around the affected branch of the nerve. This aims to calm inflammation, reduce nerve sensitivity and interrupt pain signals. The procedure may be both diagnostic and therapeutic.
Who this treatment helps
A trigeminal nerve block may be considered for people with:
- Trigeminal neuralgia
- Facial pain affecting the forehead, cheek or jaw
- Pain triggered by talking, chewing or touching the face
- Burning or electric-shock sensations
- Pain following dental procedures or facial trauma
- Persistent symptoms despite medication
A consultation is required to confirm suitability and identify which branch of the trigeminal nerve is involved.
What is a Trigeminal Nerve Block?
A trigeminal nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure that targets one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve. The injection is placed near the nerve as it exits the skull or within specific anatomical pathways, depending on the location of symptoms.
Local anaesthetic aims to provide temporary numbing and diagnostic clarity, while steroid medication (if used) may help reduce inflammation over a longer period. Ultrasound or fluoroscopy (X‑ray guidance) may be used to optimise accuracy and safety.
What to expect during the procedure
- Your consultant reviews the plan and answers any final questions.
- You lie comfortably on the procedure table.
- The skin over the target area is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthetic.
- Using imaging guidance, a fine needle is positioned near the affected nerve branch.
- A small amount of contrast dye may be used to confirm placement.
- Local anaesthetic, with or without steroid, is injected.
- You are monitored briefly before going home the same day.
The procedure typically takes 10–20 minutes.
After the procedure
- Temporary numbness in part of the face is expected and usually settles within hours.
- Mild drooping of the eyelid or lip may occur temporarily depending on the nerve branch treated.
- Some soreness at the injection site is normal.
- Pain relief may be immediate due to the local anaesthetic, with steroid effects developing gradually if used.
- Most people resume normal activities the next day, avoiding strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
Benefits
- May reduce facial pain and neuralgia symptoms
- Can help confirm whether the trigeminal nerve is the source of pain
- May improve comfort during eating, speaking and daily activities
- Minimally invasive with a short recovery time
- May support other treatments such as physiotherapy or medication review
- Can guide suitability for further targeted interventions
Possible risks and side effects
Trigeminal nerve blocks are generally safe. Possible effects include:
- Temporary facial numbness or weakness
- Mild bruising or soreness
- Light-headedness
- Headache
- Rarely, infection or bleeding
- Very rare nerve irritation
Your consultant will discuss individual risks during your assessment.
When to consider other options
If symptoms persist or if the block provides limited benefit, your consultant may discuss:
- Sphenopalatine ganglion block
- Occipital nerve block (if symptoms overlap with headache patterns)
- Medication review
- Physiotherapy or jaw-focused rehabilitation
- Combined approaches for complex facial pain
- In selected cases, radiofrequency treatments targeting specific nerve branches
Safety note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinners, have allergies, diabetes, active infection, are pregnant, or have had previous reactions to steroid or local anaesthetic. You may need someone to drive you home depending on the medications used.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether a trigeminal nerve block may be appropriate for you.