Cutting Edge Treatment for Chronic Headaches and Migraines

The providers at Phoenix Family Medical Clinic treat chronic migraines and headaches with a new treatment methodology using repetitive transnasal applications using a special delivery mechanism applied to the nasal pathway.

Migraines are a highly prevalent medical disorder considered a leading cause of worldwide disability. Historically, migraine has been viewed as a self limiting episodic pain disorder, but there is growing acceptance in the medical community of a disease model whereby Chronic Migraine is considered end stage consequence of uncontrolled or poorly controlled episodic migraine.

The Sphenopalatine Ganglion (SPG) contains the largest group of neurons outside the brain. It is located at the end of the nasal passage that innervate the mouth, soft palate, tonsils, and membranes lining the nasal cavity. The most common method for SPG blockage is the transnasal approach. Traditional methods involve Q Tips or cotton applicators and were ineffective in proper blockade. With the new delivery device, our providers can achieve SPG blockade and help relieve the migraine symptoms.

The treatment program suggests 6 weeks of treatment with a twice weekly schedule for a total of 12 treatments for full effectiveness for chronic headaches and migraines. The benefit of the treatment are observed at 15 and 30min post procedure time points and sustained at the 24hour time point. Over the 6-week injection cycle, there is a statistically significant reduction of the headache and migraine symptoms using the SPG block using bupivacaine.

The side effects are minimal and include unpleasant taste and mouth numbness. These are mild and short in duration and resolve spontaneously.

If you are experiencing headache or migraine symptoms, please schedule an appointment with the providers at Phoenix Family Medical Clinic to discuss potential treatment with the Nasal delivery device at one of our offices.