What is Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia?
The glossopharyngeal nerve is the ninth cranial nerve, which lies deep in the neck. This important nerve is involved in controlling the mouth and neck, and functions such as swallowing and vocal coordination.
When this nerve is damaged it results in a painful condition known as glossopharyngeal Neuralgia. People who suffer from glossopharyngeal neuralgia experience terrible pain in the throat, ears, or tongue.
Signs and Symptoms of Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia
Sufferers of glossopharyngeal neuralgia will experience pain to varying degrees in the throat, tongue, or deep in the ears. The pain is generally described as sharp, shooting, or similar to an electric shock. For some people, it is a continuous pain; others experience pain in bursts. The pain may be triggered by swallowing, cold beverages, clearing the throat or coughing, sneezing, talking, or touching the gums.
Other symptoms include difficulties vocalizing, swallowing, or having a sense of fullness in the throat. It may feel as though there is a lump in your throat. Having a burning or tingling sensation on the skin of the face or neck is a common occurrence with glossopharyngeal neuralgia.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Effects Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia
The upper cervical spine is made up of the uppermost vertebrae of the spine, sitting just below the brain stem. The craniofacial nerve system is found at this junction, with a large cluster of nerves that travel through the head, face, and neck.
When the vertebrae of the upper cervical spine are misaligned, it can cause inflammation and compress nerves. These nerves, which carry signals to and from the brain into the face and neck, can misfire and result in conditions such as Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia.
How our Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia Treatment Works
Dr. Christina Coblish and Dr. Ryan Moeskauof Upper Cervical Chiropractic of Boulder are expert practitioners of the Blair Chiropractic Technique. This is a modern technique that focuses on gentle yet effective treatment that brings the upper cervical spine back into proper alignment.
Dr. Coblish and Dr. Moeskau begin exams using the most up-to-date diagnostic imaging tools to diagnose the problem. Using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), the doctor can examine a dynamic 3D image to eliminate the guesswork.
Once misalignments are located, Dr. Coblish and Dr. Moeskau use minimal low-force pressure in precise locations to make corrections. The Blair chiropractic technique offers patients a safe, drug-free, non-invasive way to help relieve pain and health problems stemming from Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia. Once the spine is properly aligned, the body’s natural healing processes can resume, putting the patient on the road to recovery.
We aim to help bring long-term relief and improve the lives of our patients. Dr. Coblish Dr. Coblish and Dr. Moeskau services the Boulder, Longmont, Louisville, Erie, Lafayette, Broomfield, and Denver areas in Colorado.