Do chronic migraines or headaches interrupt your life?
Patients in greater Nashua now have access to a treatment for chronic headaches and other symptoms. Sphenopalatine Neuromodulation or SPG (sphenopalatine ganglion) block is clinically proven to offer lasting pain relief for those suffering from chronic headache related issues, including:
- Migraines
- Spinal headaches
- Sinus and cluster headaches
- and more
Studies have shown that the SPG, which is located in the back of the nasal cavity and is directly involved in the pathway of headaches, when stimulated, can worsen symptoms. By temporarily disrupting the function of these nerves, it is possible to reduce facial pain and headaches leading to significant improvement of symptoms.
About the Procedure
"Sphenopalatine Neuromodulation" is used to regulate the SPG’s ability to send signals to and from the brain through a simple, needle-less approach through the nostrils.
- After applying an anesthetic spray in each nostril, an x-ray machine (fluoroscope) is used to help guide a thin, spaghetti sized surgical tube into each nostril.
- Contrast is used for placement, followed by concentrated xylocaine to temporarily block the SPG.
- The entire process takes about 15-20 minutes and does not require sedation.
Results
Studies have shown up to 80% of patients will show significant improvement of their typical symptoms, with two-thirds showing complete or near complete resolution within 24 hours. The majority of patients studied were able to decrease or stop their medications altogether, with 50% having continued improvement at three months.
For many patients, if significant relief is achieved, the procedure can be repeated and potentially lead to additional long-term relief.
What patients are saying:
"I would absolutely recommend this procedure. I have had headaches for years, since a teenager. I was always worried about waking up with a headache. If one started in the morning I normally had it all day until I went to bed. Overall, I felt very unproductive when I had a migraine and distracted. Since the procedure I have felt “free”….not worrying about when I may get another headache."
"After the treatment I didn’t have any for 4 months. I started getting them again about a month ago. Not as severe though. I generally would take Excedrin migraine. I found I haven’t had to take it as often though. When the headaches started again they didn’t last as long either."