New Research Regarding The Treatment Of Headaches Whether you began experiencing headaches as a child, or they didn’t start bothering you until you were an adult, the pain and disruption can be palpable. Surgery, once considered unrealistic for headache sufferers, has slowly been gaining acceptance as a final solution for individuals who suffer from terrible migraines. Neck Surgery – While scarcely a common procedure, for those patients who suffer from headaches that result from neck pain and dysfunction, surgery may help. A study published just a couple of months ago showed that even two years post surgery for disc replacement or spine fusion, headache frequency and intensity were diminished. The study focused upon patients who had regular headaches rather than migraines. Statistical data showed a 20% or greater reduction in headaches across the board. While this study only addresses those with headaches caused by cervical difficulties, the results are promising for those who wish to try chiropractics even before surgery is considered. Surgery and Migraines – Interestingly, a similar study was done around the same time evaluating the use of surgery in the treatment of migraine headaches. The participants in this study were tracked for five years. The surgery involved surgically manipulating muscular tissue in the region of trigger points. 88% of those who took part in the study eliminated or significantly reduced the duration and severity of their headaches. This is only one of eight studies, some still ongoing, that have been assessing the feasibility of surgery as a way to control chronic migraine headaches. The muscle manipulated or removed was dependant upon the focal location of the headache. Are Headaches all in your Mouth? – While further studies will be needed, a dentist has recently posted findings that relate specifically to tension related migraines. Of patients that reported to the hospital with such headaches, many were treated without any medication. It was found that these patients consistently had a swollen, tender area above the molars. This inflammation pressed upon the maxillary nerve, resulting in a headache. Rather than prescribing one of the commonly used drugs, the team decided to treat the headache by reducing the inflammation. An Intra-Oral Vasoconstriction device was used to chill the area and decrease the pressure upon the affected nerve, resulting in the elimination of the headache. More Treatment Options – For those who wish to avoid surgery or experimental treatments, headaches can be effectively reduced with both over the counter medications and a number of alternative practices. Chiropractics can be used to ensure proper alignment of the spine, thus reducing unintended pressure upon the spinal cord and head. Massage therapists are gifted at reducing the tension and tight muscles that support the head and shoulders. The reduction of tension results in an easing of the headaches. Dietary changes may help remove some of the triggers that cause changes in blood pressure potentially leading to migraine headaches. A headache diary is particularly useful when trying to figure out which foods trigger you. Consult with your primary care giver to find the best options for your care. While surgeries are currently showing promise they remain a last resort.