SLBMI Headache and Pain Management Services>> Disorders That We Treat>> Migrane and Chronic Tension Headaches

Migrane Headaches

A form of vascular headache, Migrane pain is associated with the release of chemicals from nerve fibers around the enlarged blood vessels. Migrane attacks activate the sympathetic nervous system, which controls the so-called "fight or flight" response. Sympathetic activity delays emptying of the stomach into the small intestine, prevents oral medications from entering the intestine and being absorbed, and decreases the circulation of blood, leading to cold hands and feet. Increased sympathetic activity also contributes to blurred vision and sensitivity to light and/or sound, and may cause nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

Treatment for Migrane Headaches must address all medical, physical and psychological aspects of this problem, including tension.  Migraneurs respond best to the multi-disciplinary approach available at SLBMI. Effective treatment includes stress reduction, biofeedback, diet counseling, physical therapy, posture correction, massage, acupressure, analgesics or other medications to reduce stress and pain. To determine if foods might be a trigger for your migranes, download this food diary to complete and take to your medical evaluation appointment.

Chronic Tension Headaches

Chronic tension headaches are often associated with tight muscles in the neck, scalp and jaw, which can produce referred pain patterns typical of these headaches.  Tension headaches are often related to stress, posture or mechanical faults, and may occur daily at specific predictable times or with specific activities or situations.  

Effective treatment includes stress reduction, biofeedback, diet counseling, physical therapy, posture correction, massage, acupressure, analgesics or other medications to reduce stress and pain. To determine if foods may be a factor in your headaches, download this food diary to complete and take to your medical evaluation appointment.

See also TMD, foot/knee pain and back/neck pain.

If you are suffering from pain (especially headaches) and suspect foods may be a trigger, download and complete this food diary.
View Food Diary in PDF

Dr. Witte, member of the SLBMI Pain Management Team, cites in his article, High-Refined Carbohydrate Diet (HRCD), (HI) and Relative Hypoglycemia (rHG): Known but rarely Addressed Critical Etiologies in Migraine.  A Synthesis of Old and New Evidence, that there are seven categories of evidence that point to HRCD, HI and rHG as critical factors in migraine pathogenesis.

View Headache Article in PDF

Please know that we are here to help you.

Treatment for Migrane Headaches and Chronic Tension Headaches: Now that you have read more about these disorders, the next step is to seek help.

Frequently, people are hesitant to make the first step. Please know that our Institute is nationally recognized and our clinicians are ready to work with you.

In order to receive help the first step is to contact our Intake Coordinator.

For our Macklind office call 314-534-0200.

Our toll free number is 877-245-2688.

Our Intake Coordinator will match you to one of our clinicians who will evaluate your concerns and make recommendations to you.

The first step is an important one and only you can place the call.

Remember, we are here to help you.

Your insurance coverage will also be reviewed by the intake coordinator.

Click here to contact the Headache and Pain Management Services