For the millions of Americans who suffer from chronic migraine headaches, extreme pain, nausea, light and sound sensitivity, and other symptoms can interfere with daily life. Most people with frequent migraines take medication to relieve their pain, and many modify their lifestyles to prevent migraines. But other treatments, like BOTOX, have shown promise in helping people relieve chronic migraines. If you or a loved one are suffering from persistent, painful migraines, board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation physician Dr. Asare Christian and the team at Aether Medicine in Wayne, PA may be able to help.

What is BOTOX?

BOTOX is an injectable form of the botulinum toxin, and Dr. Christian and his team at Aether Medicine in Wayne, PA are experts in administering BOTOX treatments. BOTOX works by interfering with nerve signals from the brain, and it’s one of the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic treatments in the United States.

In addition to its primary use as a wrinkle-reducing treatment, BOTOX and other neurotoxin-based injections are increasingly being used to treat painful conditions affecting the muscles and nerves. BOTOX and similar treatments can help alleviate pain and discomfort related to chronic back pain, muscle spasms, cervical dystonia, TMJ disorder, and migraines.

Does BOTOX help relieve migraines?

A UK study of chronic migraine sufferers showed that BOTOX treatments were associated with a reduction in the number of migraine days per month and days taking painkillers, and an increase in the number of days per month without any headache or migraine pain.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the use of BOTOX to treat migraines, and it’s believed the injections interfere with the brain’s ability to receive pain signals triggered by migraines.

How does BOTOX treatment work for migraines?

If you and Dr. Christian determine that BOTOX treatment is the best course of action to alleviate your migraine pain, he and the team at Aether Medicine in Wayne, PA will determine the locations where BOTOX will be injected into your body. Most often, that includes areas like the forehead, neck, bridge of the nose, temples, back of the head, and near shoulder blades, but the precise locations depend on your medical history and the specifics of your migraine pain.

BOTOX treatments can’t permanently cure migraine headaches, and after several months, migraines may return. That’s why it’s necessary for most patients to undergo treatment every few months.

Will insurance cover BOTOX treatment for migraines?

BOTOX treatments can be expensive, but for people suffering from chronic migraines, many insurance providers will cover the cost. Generally, patients will be required to meet the medical criteria for migraines, which is 15 or more days per month with a headache, at least eight of which have migraine features, such as light sensitivity or nausea. The professionals at Aether Medicine can help Wayne, PA residents understand what their insurance company will cover before making a plan for BOTOX injections.

Considering BOTOX for chronic migraines? Schedule a consultation today

Almost a quarter of American households include someone who suffers from migraines, and millions of people have debilitating migraines that prevent them from fully participating in life. If you or a loved one are experiencing migraine headaches, especially if you’ve been unable to control them through other means, contact Dr. Asare Christian and the team at Aether Medicine in Wayne, PA.