The supraorbital nerve(SON) and infraorbital nerves (ION) are branches of the trigeminal nerve, the main nerve which provides sensation to the skin of the face. The SON is the branch which provides superficial sensation the forehead into the scalp line. The ION is the branch of the trigeminal nerve which supplies sensory innervation to the midface, from the cheek to the nose.

These nerves may become irritate or damaged secondary to a number of factors including trauma, plastic surgery, a shingles infection or other viral infection, When this nerve is damaged, the pain is often described as sharp and shooting, tingling. The areas of the face can be very sensitive to touch and when severe it can be debilitating. This conditions are called supraorbital or infraorbital neuralgia. Often this nerve can heal on it’s own over time. When this time period becomes prolonged or intolerable, a simple minimally invasive block, the supraorbital nerve block or infraorbital nerve block, may help. This block can be both diagnostic and therapeutic.

Another consideration for severe SON or ION neuralgia patients is peripheral nerve stimulation. For intractable cases of neuralgia, a very small electrical stimulator can be placed under the skin and block the nerves transmission of pain to the brain. This lead is often undetectable from the exterior.

If you are experiencing pain secondary to the supraorbital nerve or infraorbital nerve, our pain management specialist at 1 West 85th St., New York or at 2348 Richmond Road, Staten Island, NY can help. If you are experiencing supraorbital neuralgia or know someone who is, you can call our doctor to see what your options are.