Migraines are a debilitating form of headache characterized by severe, pulsating or throbbing pain, typically on one side of the head. According to the World Health Organization, migraines affect approximately 15% of the global population, making them one of the most common neurological disorders.
For those who suffer from this persistent pain, traditional pain relief methods such as over-the-counter medications may not always be effective. This is where a tried-and-true treatment option—trigger point injections—comes into play.
Understanding Migraines
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke states:
“Migraine is a health condition that is more than just a bad headache. The symptoms of migraine are different from person to person, but often include headaches that keep coming back. They can also include nausea, vomiting, changes in mood, extreme tiredness, and sensitivity to light, noise, and smells. These symptoms can happen all at once during a migraine attack, or they can happen separately in between migraine attacks. Migraine attacks may last from hours to days and make it hard to do everyday activities.”
The precise cause of migraines is still not fully understood, but it is believed to involve changes in the brainstem and its interactions with the trigeminal nerve, a major pain pathway. Genetic and environmental factors can also contribute to their development.
What are Trigger Point Injections?
Trigger point injections (TPIs) are a therapeutic procedure used to treat muscle knots or “trigger points”—painful areas in muscle tissue that can refer pain to other areas of the body, including the head. During the procedure, a healthcare provider injects a small amount of anesthetic, steroid or saline solution into the identified trigger point. This can help relieve the persistent pain associated with these knots and, as a secondary benefit, alleviate headaches that stem from muscular tension.
How Can Trigger Point Injections Help with Migraines?
The American Migraine Foundation says, “Trigger points can be present in patients with migraine, tension-type, post-traumatic and other headache disorders, and can be worsening or perpetuating factors for the underlying headache condition.”
Here is how trigger point injections can help migraine headaches:
- Addressing Underlying Muscle Tension: Muscle tension often accompanies migraines and can exacerbate the pain. By targeting trigger points in the neck, shoulders and upper back, TPIs can help reduce tension, thereby potentially reducing the frequency and intensity of migraine attacks.
- Immediate Pain Relief: Patients often report immediate relief after receiving trigger point injections. This can be particularly beneficial for those who experience frequent migraines but find no respite from over-the-counter medications.
- Reduction of Inflammation: Many TPIs include corticosteroids, which help reduce inflammation in the affected muscles. For individuals whose migraines are inflammation-induced, this can be an effective way to decrease overall pain levels.
- Customized Treatment Plans: Because TPIs can be tailored to each individual, they are suitable for a wide range of migraine sufferers. Each patient’s treatment plan can be tailored to the trigger points identified, their specific lifestyle and individual anatomy.
Interventional Pain Management at FullRange Spine & Ortho
Living with chronic migraines can lead sufferers down a path of continued medication dependence or even surgical suggestions. At FullRange Spine & Ortho in Los Angeles, Dr. Nini and Dr. Lee specialize in interventional pain management tactics that prioritize healthy healing and profound pain relief. They understand that pain management is not a “cookie-cutter” process; every individual is different.
Each patient’s treatment plan is meticulously crafted based on several factors, including:
- Type and Location of the Injury: Dr. Nini and Dr. Lee consider the origin of the pain and its relationship to the patient’s overall health.
- Patient’s Anatomy: Everyone’s body is different. What works for one person may not work for another. This understanding informs the treatment strategy employed.
- Lifestyle Considerations: Activities and daily habits can significantly impact treatment outcomes; therefore, the doctors consider these aspects in their personalized approach.
Rather than simply masking the symptoms of migraines or other types of pain, the focus at FullRange Spine & Ortho is on achieving long-term relief through customized treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Migraines
What triggers a migraine?
Common triggers include hormonal changes, certain foods and drinks (such as aged cheeses and alcohol), stress, sensory stimuli (like bright lights or loud noises), sleep disturbances and environmental changes.
How do I know if I have a migraine?
Migraines typically involve moderate to severe head pain, often pulsating in nature, and are accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light and sound. Auras (visual or sensory disturbances) may also precede migraines in some individuals.
Can migraines be prevented?
Yes, migraine prevention strategies may include lifestyle changes, avoiding triggers and in some cases, medications that can reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
Are trigger point injections safe?
TPIs are generally considered safe. However, as with any medical procedure, there can be risks. It’s essential to discuss your medical history and any concerns with your healthcare provider.
How quickly do trigger point injections work?
Many patients report feeling relief almost immediately after an injection, while others may experience gradual improvements over several days. The effects can also vary depending on the individual and the specific condition being treated.
Los Angeles Migraine Headache Treatment
If you are struggling with migraines and haven’t found relief from traditional treatments, consider consulting the experts at FullRange Spine & Ortho. Dr. Nini and Dr. Lee take a comprehensive, individualized approach to pain management, focusing on providing long-term relief through effective strategies, such as trigger point injections. You don’t have to live with pain—let their experienced team help you find a tailored solution that works for you.
Posted on behalf of FullRange Spine & Ortho