Muscle relaxing injections for Migraines

What are Migraines?

A migraine is a type of headache that can cause severe pain, usually on one side of the head. It is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can last anywhere from a few hours to several days and can be debilitating for those who suffer from them regularly. Other symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound often accompany it.

What are muscle relaxing injections for Migraine Treatment?

A neurotoxin is a well-known injectable treatment primarily used for cosmetic purposes, but it also has medical applications. For migraine treatment, it works by blocking the release of certain chemicals involved in the transmission of pain. When injected into specific areas of the head and neck, it helps reduce the frequency, severity, and duration of migraine attacks.
It was used as a preventive treatment for chronic migraines in 2010. It is typically used for people who experience chronic migraines, defined as 15 or more headache days per month with migraine symptoms lasting at least 4 hours a day.

How do muscle relaxing injection work for migraines?

It works by targeting the nerve endings involved in the headache process. When injected into specific sites around the head, neck, and shoulders, the injection prevents the release of chemicals, such as acetylcholine, that contribute to migraine pain. This action helps to reduce the intensity and frequency of migraine attacks. The medicine also helps block pain pathways in the brain, leading to fewer and less severe episodes.

How is the medicine Administered for Migraines?

For migraine treatment the medicine is given as injections in specific areas around the head, neck, and shoulders. The injection sites typically include:

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Forehead

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Temples

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Back of the head (occipital area)

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Neck muscles (upper back)

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Shoulders

Each session typically involves multiple injection points. The procedure is relatively quick, lasting about 15-20 minutes.

Benefits of Injections for Migraine Treatment

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Fewer Migraine Days:

Can significantly reduce the number of migraine days per month, allowing you to enjoy a more consistent quality of life.

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Reduced Pain Intensity:

Helps to decrease the intensity of migraines, making them less debilitating when they do occur.

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Prevention of Attacks:

Is used as a preventive treatment, meaning it helps to reduce the likelihood of a migraine attack from occurring in the first place.

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Minimal Downtime:

Is a non-invasive treatment with minimal recovery time, allowing most people to resume their daily activities right after the procedure.

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Long-Lasting Results:

Many patients experience sustained relief, with the effects of the medicine lasting up to 3 months.

What to Expect During the Treatment

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Consultation

You’ll begin with a consultation to discuss your migraine history and determine whether injection is a suitable treatment option. Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and overall health.

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Treatment

It is injected directly into the trapezius muscles in a series of small injections. The procedure usually takes 15-30 minutes.

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Recovery

Typically, there is no downtime. You may experience slight swelling or bruising, but this usually resolves within a few days. Most patients can return to normal activities immediately.

FAQs

Are injections Safe for Migraine Treatment?

Neurotoxins are generally considered safe for treating chronic migraines when administered by a trained and experienced healthcare provider. Side effects are rare but can include:

Mild bruising or swelling at the injection sites
Headache or neck pain following the treatment (usually temporary)
Drooping eyelids (a rare side effect)
Flu-like symptoms such as muscle weakness

These side effects are generally mild and temporary, and they typically resolve shortly after treatment.

Who Can Benefit from this type of treatment for Migraines?

Neurotoxin treatment is most effective for individuals who experience chronic migraines (15 or more headache days per month). Botox may not be suitable for acute migraine attacks and is generally recommended for those who have not found sufficient relief from other treatments, such as oral medications or over-the-counter pain relievers.

If you suffer from:

Chronic migraines (15 or more headache days per month)
Frequent, severe headaches that do not respond well to other treatments
Neck, shoulder, or head pain associated with migraine attacks
Nausea or vomiting that occurs alongside migraines

You may be a candidate for this type of treatment.

How Long Does It Take for the treatment to Work for Migraines?

You may start to notice improvements within 3–7 days after the injections, but the full effect can take up to 2 weeks to be fully realised. Many patients report a reduction in migraine frequency and intensity within one to two treatment sessions. Results typically last for 3 months, and repeat treatments are necessary to maintain the benefits.

How Long Do the Results Last?

The effects of this migraine treatment typically last up to 3 months. After that, the frequency and intensity of migraines may gradually increase, and additional treatments will be required. Regular Botox treatments are typically given every 12 weeks to maintain effectiveness.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Neurotoxins are generally well-tolerated, but potential side effects can include:

Injection Site Reactions: Mild bruising or swelling at the injection sites
Temporary Muscle Weakness: Some people may experience slight muscle weakness in the areas treated
Headache: Some individuals report experiencing a mild headache after treatment, though this is usually short-lived
Neck Pain: Mild pain in the neck or upper back may occur in some cases

Is this treatment right for You?

This is a proven treatment option for chronic migraine sufferers, especially those who have not responded well to other medications. If you have chronic migraines and are looking for an alternative, non-invasive preventive treatment, this may be a great solution.

Your Clinician

Emma Elaine Condon- Clinical Specialist Practitioner BSc, MSc.

MSc Advanced Neuromusculoskeletal Physiotherapy (Hons)
BSc Physiotherapy MSCP (Hons)
PGCert Independent Medical Prescriber
PGCert Soft Tissue and Joint Injection Therapist
PGCert Diagnostic Ultrasound