17/01/2026
“When there is a misalignment in the upper spine or neck, it can mechanically disrupt the nerves in the upper spinal cord and brainstem, including the trigeminal nerve,” said chiropractor and founder of Vitality Chiropractic, Shaan Daniel Rai. “This can be why patients experience associated neck pain or headaches, which can also come from this area.”
Before each session, patients have nerve scans taken “to help us assess progress and if we should or should not be giving the patient a corrective technique on that day”, said Rai. If needed, “this is all done with gentle, precise corrections; no big twisting, popping or ‘cracking’ of the spine”. The intention is to improve the alignment in the upper neck to reduce the mechanical tension placed on the nerves there and restore their functions. “With normal function, the nerve irritation reduces and pain improves,” he said.
Rai highlighted that “we work with neurologists, whenever possible, to suggest conservative approaches when the cause of TN is less clear”. “In these cases, if the doctor and patient agree, we would suggest upper cervical chiropractic care before resorting to surgery.”
“We encourage all patients to see a medical doctor for assessment, usually a neurologist, before seeking our care. This is to exclude any red flags that might warrant emergency surgery, such as a growth. However, most patients have already seen a plethora of doctors and practitioners before consulting us.”
He emphasised that “this isn’t to say surgery isn’t effective, but side effects can be possible”. “In my experience, it can be a longer and harder process for changes to occur due to the changes in the nerve after certain surgeries.”
Specialists explain why the condition occurs, how it’s diagnosed, and the range of medical and surgical options available locally.
