You are very dear to want to know how to be supportive of your wife.
The best things my husband does is, when I am in the recliner or bed, he will rub my feet, or he brings me a hot face cloth and I just lay it over my face to relax the muscles. He massages my ears very lightly which is helpful. Atypical facial neuropathy is one of the pain issues I have caused by an infection that caused nerve damage.

Ask her what stresses her the most and handle that for her. I know for most of us, pain is there but we all still have to lead our lives.... bath, cook, food shop, clean, run errands, etc....do as much as you can to help the things that cause her the most pain. I know with TN, even air conditioning on the face hurts, or a cold wind or sometimes any wind, make sure nothing is blowing on her face. My husband bought me these fleecy ski mask kind of things that I wear in the winter when I have to go out but some days even
a piece of cloth on your face hurts. Lyrica is what helped me most. Honestly, I just got of it due to side effects but, I am sorry I did because I now realize how helpful it was.

Maybe research the best doc in a multi-state area that handles TN and make an appt and bring her. Research natural cures, I know, if I eat sugar, it really kicks my neuropathy into high gear so best to avoid it. B12 injections or infusions help neuropathy. Maybe find a naturopath in your area that may have holistic treatments. I know for many of us, if it has been a long time, you tend to feel beaten down by the whole thing. Being supportive and loving, as you obviously are, is very helpful.

Happy New year....I hope it is a better one for you and your wife.
Diandra

Dear fuzz, don't be a captain obvious. That's what I call people who say things and u just want to say duh!!! I've dealt w my pain for over a decade now. I've devoted thousands of hours, time and money seeking treatment and answers. But what drives me crazy is when my boyfriend or family asks if I've tried ice or some obvious solution. Gee, why didn't I think of that??? Severe pain makes my patience disappear and makes me mean. I don't intend on it, but I can't help it either. My boyfriend always wants to help and that's great, but there's nothing he can do. I tell him all I need is someone to listen when I vent, give me a shoulder to cry on, and thats about it. Try not to tell her u understand her pain. Because unless u suffer chronic pain, no one gets it. That's why I love this forum. Everyone understands, its educational and supportive. Its been a game changer for me.