@dorisena It sounds to me like the trigeminal neuropathy might be a nerve entrapment or physical issue if you can ease it by massaging your face. That can be caused by a misalignment of the jaw, neck and skull. You might want to look at our discussion of Myofascial Release and all the issues it can treat that are caused by tight fascial tissues that prevent normal physical functions. I was wondering if you have tried physical therapy? I think an expert level in MFR therapist might be able to help you. It helps me a lot. It might be what you need to take back control of your future and there is a lot you can do to help yourself. Back surgery would also create internal fascial scar tissue which can cause these restrictions and MFR can help that. I am a cervical spine surgery patient. Here is the discussion.

Here is a physical therapy article that talks about trigeminal neuralgia and jaw dysfunction.
https://mskneurology.com/true-cause-solution-temporomandibular-dysfunction-tmd/