Dealing with migraines and other neurologic issues can be a difficult and constant battle. Those who suffer from chronic migraines can be debilitated for sometimes days at a time, with many finding that prescription drugs or lifestyle changes often make little change in these painful burdens.

Here are a few considerations above and beyond the standard fixes that might be of help to those with pain that is much more than a basic headache.

Botox

Many of us may think of it in regard to its cosmetic uses, but as of 2010, Botox has become a legitimate method of treating chronic migraines, approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

Injected around pain fibers that are involved in headaches, "Botox enters the nerve endings around where it is injected and blocks the release of chemicals involved in pain transmission. This prevents activation of pain networks in the brain," according to the American Migraine Foundation. "Botox prevents migraine headaches before they start, but takes time to work."

Patients typically need injections every 10-12 weeks, with real effectiveness beginning to take place around the second or third treatment.

Surgery

This next option for treatment may sound intimidating, but neurosurgery is an excellent option for those with neurologic disorders who have tried every other method of treatment with no success, or who have an issue that can only be corrected with surgery. Either way, neurosurgery has advanced to where it can be a huge help.

For example, according to Health Grades, if a doctor can diagnose chronic migraines as stemming from specific pressure put on nerves in the head and neck, a neurosurgeon can go in and decompress the afflicted nerves.

Rest assured, hospitals and surgeons are well prepared to meet such needs, safely and precisely. Steward Health Care, for example, has a robust neurosurgery department, specializing in the "newest treatments in this specialized field, using advanced image-guiding technology and minimally invasive and open techniques to provide safe and successful treatment."

In addition to decompressing nerves, other common neurosurgical procedures such as burr holes, cervical disk replacement and deep brain stimulation are options for other neurological issues that could be tied to your head and neck pain.

Acupuncture

Another potential method of treatment is acupuncture. Recent studies, such as a 2017 trial reported on by JAMA Internal Medicine, have shown it to be effective, so it is a valid consideration.

As described by Healthline, the principle behind acupuncture is the goal to restore the flow of positive energy throughout your body while removing negative energy that causes pain.

This occurs when a practitioner inserts acupuncture needles into different pressure points in your body, which are typically near specific nerves. "The needle stimulates the nerves to release hormones, such as endorphins, that trigger a response from your body. This immune and circulation system stimulation is what proponents of acupuncture claim relieves migraines and tension headaches," explains Healthline.

Find a certified acupuncturist who specializes in treating migraines, and relax while the needles do their work — you may be surprised by the outcome.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation

Another up-and-coming treatment is transcranial magnetic stimulation. Described as using a device, much resembling a hair dryer, that sends magnetic waves into the base of your neck, this procedure has proved effective enough that it was recently approved by the FDA. Meant to be used when a migraine is first felt coming on, as described by Health Grades, transcranial magnetic stimulation treatments have proven effective in about 38 percent of those who use it at the first warning signs of an oncoming attack.

Whether you suffer from brain tumors, aneurysms, movement disorders, epilepsy, spine diseases, migraines, or other neurological diagnoses, Steward Health Care and its staff of neurosurgeons are ready to help. With their comprehensive stroke service, neuro-critical care specialists and 24/7 board-certified neurosurgical coverage, patients are sure to receive exceptional care before and after surgery. Contact Steward Health Care to explore what options you have to treat your migraines and other neurological issues today.

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