The supraorbital (SON) and infraorbital nerves (ION) are branches of the trigeminal nerve; the main nerve that provides sensation to facial skin. The SON provides superficial sensation from the forehead into the scalp line. The ION supplies sensory innervations to the mid face; from the cheek to the nose.
Causes and Symptoms
Supraorbital or infraorbital neuralgia (nerve pain) may be caused by trauma, plastic surgery, shingles or other viral infection leads to nerve irritation. Symptoms include sharp, shooting, and tingling pain. Areas of the face may become very sensitive to touch and when severe, disabling.
Nerve Blocks
Often, these nerves may heal with time. However, if pain is intolerable or becomes prolonged, a simple minimally invasive supraorbital or infraorbital nerve block may help relieve pain. These injections are diagnostic and therapeutic.
Peripheral Nerve Stimulation
Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) may be considered if neuralgia (SON or ION) cannot be otherwise controlled or managed. PNS involves implanting a small low-level electrical stimulator beneath the skin to block transmission of pain signals to the brain.
To Learn More
If you are experiencing supraorbital or infraorbital neuralgia, please contact our pain management experts at the California Spine and Pain Institute. Our physicians routinely treat cervical pain. We would be happy to make an appointment for a consultation and provide additional information about other treatment options.
