Botox for migraine headache specialist IN PITTSBURGH
Treatment for Chronic Migraine Headache
Over 3 million adults suffer from chronic migraine headaches. People suffering from this debilitating condition miss an average of 63 days of work, school, and time with their families over the course of a year. Fortunately, there are clinically proven treatments that can significantly relieve pain, and improve the overall quality of life.
At Pittsburgh Hand and Nerve, we understand how debilitating chronic migraines can be for those that suffer from them. We provide a state-of-the-art, non-surgical treatment option: Botulinum toxin. These treatments have given people long-term pain relief from chronic migraines.
Alexander Spiess, MD is a plastic surgeon with over 15 years of experience diagnosing, treating, and managing pain for a wide variety of conditions, including chronic migraine headaches. If you’re ready to talk to a physician you can trust, schedule your first appointment with Alexander Spiess, MD today.
Botox for Chronic Migraines
Although we typically associate Botulinum toxin with cosmetic applications, it is has been proven to be a highly effective treatment for chronic migraines. In fact, 3.5 million Botulinum toxin treatments have been administered to people suffering from chronic migraines, and it has been FDA-approved as a chronic migraine treatment since 2010.
Unlike treatments that have to be taken once the pain has already begun, Botulinum toxin can prevent headaches and migraines before they start. On average, Botulinum toxin injections result in 8 to 9 fewer headaches and migraine days every month after just 2 treatments.
Botulinum toxin injections for chronic migraine headaches are given around the head and neck, and only take about 15 minutes from start to finish. If you’d like to learn more about Botox for chronic migraine treatment, call or request an appointment with Dr. Spiess today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of chronic migraines?
The qualifying factors for chronic migraines are as follows:
- 15 or more headaches a month
- Migraines on at least 8 of those days
- Each migraine lasts 4 or more hours
- Moderate to severe pain during migraine
- Pain experienced predominantly on one side
- Throbbing sensation
- Pain worsens with any physical activity
What causes chronic migraines?
Researchers are still unsure about what causes chronic migraines. However, they are believed to be triggered by the following:
- Genetic history
- Vascular issues
- Central nervous system disorder
- Chemical imbalances
Where do they inject Botox for chronic migraines?
Botox is injected into 7 different muscle areas around the head and neck, including the:
- Forehead
- Temples
- Neck
- Back of the head
- Bridge of the nose
- Upper back/shoulder blades