BOTOX for Migraines in Tacoma, WA
What is BOTOX?
Botox injections are shots that use a neurotoxin to prevent a muscle from firing for a limited time. Botox was originally used to smooth fine lines and wrinkles, but was then found to have had therapeutic purposes. Since then, many conditions are treated with BOTOX, including migraine headaches.
Discover relief from migraines at Puget Sound Neurology. Our specialized treatments, such as BOTOX can help you regain control over your life. Contact our clinic in Tacoma, WA by scheduling an appointment online.
How Can BOTOX Help with Migraines?
In 2010, Botox was approved for use for prevention of chronic migraine in adults over the age of 18 who have failed other prevention treatments. Migraine is considered chronic when the patient experiences more than 15 days per month with a headache and 8 of those days are migraine days. BOTOX is not yet approved for patients with episodic migraine, or those with fewer than 15 days per month with headache, although clinical trials are currently underway for this population.
Botox helps with migraines in the following ways:
- Blocks nerve endings and prevents pain networks – Botox is injected around pain fibers and blocks the release of chemicals involved in pain transmission.
- Prevents migraine headaches before they start – Botox is prevention medication designed to reduce the number and severity of your migraines.
- Staying on treatment – Often the maximum effects will not occur until the second and third Botox treatment, each treatment lasting for 10-12 weeks. BOTOX is not a cure for your migraines. Patients will need to continue with regular treatment in order to see effects.
- Reduces Muscular Spasms – By blocking the muscle contractions with BOTOX, overactive muscles of the face head, neck and shoulders are able to relax which can further reduce migraine systems and migraine attacks. Our providers will follow the standard FDA approved pattern for BOTOX injections for migraine, which consists of 31 small injections to the forehead, temple, back of head, shoulders and neck.
Does BOTOX Really Work for Migraines?
According to the American Migraine Foundation, Botox treatment is considered successful if by the second set of injections, the number of headache days is reduced by approximately 50 percent. Not everyone will have the same response to BOTOX, but it is a powerful tool in the migraine treatment tool-kit.
It is a simple procedure that takes less than 30 minutes. There is no downtime with few side effects. You can get back to your daily activities immediately.
It is important to find a qualified provider with experience in treating migraines with BOTOX, such as the physicians at our clinic. We have been treating migraines with BOTOX since its early approval. Our office are experts in helping you get treatment authorized by insurance and getting your injections scheduled at your convenience.
Am I a Candidate?
This treatment is only approved for adults 18 and older with chronic migraine. You could be a good candidate if you have tried other prescription prevention medications in the past without success. Talk to one of our doctors if you think BOTOX could help give you the relief you need. Our providers will work with you to determine the best option of care for you individually.
Schedule Your Botox for Migraines Consultation in Tacoma, WA
Experience the difference of specialized care with our team of highly trained physicians at Puget Sound Neurology. Don’t let migraines control your life any longer. Schedule your consultation today in Tacoma, WA by scheduling an appointment online.