Chicago Pediatric Headache and Migraine: Self-Administered Sphenopalatine Gangliuon Blocks and Neuromuscular Dentistry are Key

An article in Neurology advisor (see link below)  discusses the use of SPG Blocks to treat pediatric headaches and migraines.  The study included 310 procedures on 200 children ranging from 7 to 18 years of age.  In 10 minutes after the block a significant number of children reported a 2 point drop in pain levels.

Th e use of SP)G blocks for treating pediatric headaches is a blessing for both children and parents.  The video below is of a 12 year old who presented with severe migraine and was able to find relief and learn how to Self-Administer and SPG Block.

The study looked at treatment of pain severe enough to require an ER or Physician visit.  The real beauty of SPG Blocks they can be used at the onset of pain to prevent a full attack and they can be used prophylactically to prevent migraines.

Pediatric headaches and migraines should be addressed as soon as possible to eliminate both physiologic and psychological effects on children.  Typically Sphenopalatine Ganglion Blocks are preformed by physicians.   Self-Administration is a complete game changer for quality of life of both children and their parents.  It is extremely safe and typically uses 2% lidocaine without epinephrine.  Lidocaine has natural anti-inflammatory properties.  An added benefit is the incredible savings involved.  A trip to the Emergency room can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars and creates a major life disruption while self administering an SPG Blocks takes minutes to provide relief and is under $1.00 in cost.  It is far safer than any of the medications used to treat headache and migraine and it avoids a great deal of unnecessary and invasive diagnostic testing.  A recent article in Current Opinions in Pediatrics Sept 17, 2018 “Migraine in Children: presentation, disability and response to treatment” summarizes that “Recent research suggests that preventive medications may not be more effective than placebo.”   Medication is clearly not the best approach to most pediatric migraines.

This is a video of a pediatric patient who presented with a severe disabling headache and was treated with an SPG Block.

The Sphenopalatine  Ganglion (SPG) is the largest Parasympathetic Ganglion of the head and is part of the autonomic nervous system.

There are two primary divisions of our nervous system, the Somato-Sensory nervous system that we utilize to take in our environment and control our bodies.  We are well aware of utilizing the Somato-Sensory syustems.  The Autonomic nervous system is the second division and it controls the underlying physiologic systems that help us survive, control sleep, hunger, digestion, heart rate, and much much more.

The autonomic also has two divisions the Sympathetic and the Parasympathetic system:

The Sympathetic which controls our “Fight or Flight” reflex prepares our body for action and typically responds to stress from our environment.  An example would be meeting a large angry  grizzly bear, our bodies prepare to run like hell or get ready for the fight of our life.  Our body release Cortisol the stress hormone and adrenaline.  Our blood is shunted to the brain, heart and  other muscles.  Our senses become very acute.  The Sympathetic response is a reflex that provides for the survival of the individual.

The Parasympathetic system is just the opposite.  It is often called the “Eat and Digest” or the “Feed and Breed” reflex.  It is where we are laid back and relaxed.  It is where we are aware of love, warmth and comfort of others.  It is where we relax and recover, sleep, dream and much more.  It is called tthe “Survival of the Species” reflex rather than the individual.

The Sphenopalatine ganglion has cell bodies of the Parasympathetic nerves but it is the major supplier of both sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves to the head and especially to the Trigeminal Nervous System where almost 100% of headaches and migraines are initiated controlled.  The Sphenopalatine Block acts as a reset button turning off Sympathetic stress responses and turning on the Parasympatheetic system, similar to hitting Control/Alt/ Delete when your computer freezes up.  Anxiety reduction  that is obtained with SPG Blocks is a godsend for severely anxious pediatric migraine patients.

New studies have shown that SPG Blocks can eliminate about 1/3 of essential hypertension.  This would be especially useful in children with hypertension.

While utilizing Sphenopalatine Ganglion Blocks to treat, stop and prevent headaches and migraines an enormous benefit it is important to understand that many of these issues are initially caused by underdeveloped maxillas and small pediatric airways. This can lead to sleep disorders including Snoring, Sleep Apnea, Restless Legs, UARS, Nocturnal Enuresis (Bed Wetting), ADD, ADHD, Stress disorders, Anxiety and many other problems.

Early orthopedic/orthodontic treatment can change the development of the jaws and grow a lifetime of better physiology and healthier sleep and Breathing.

The VIVOS DNA Appliance and Epigenetic Orthodontics can be utilized to address older children and adults who have small airways and Orthopedically grow larger jaw s and Pneumopedically grow larger airways.

All children with Headaches, Earaches, Migraines, ADD, ADHD, and even simple snoring should have a sleep study to evaluate their airways.

Dr Shapira practices in Highland Park, Il , Visit his websites http://www.ThinkBetterLife.com to learn more.

Link for Referral to Dr Shapira:  https://thinkbetterlife.com/referrals/

Link to over 100 PATIENT TESTIMONIALS

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk9Bfz6pklC7_UluWFHzLrg/videos

Link to Neurology Advisor article:

https://www.neurologyadvisor.com/migraine-and-headache/sphenopalatine-ganglion-block-can-relieve-migraine-in-children/article/642373/

This link is to an article on Current Treatment for pediatric migraine, after a quick review you will understand superiority of SPG Blocks.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5394581/

PubMed Abstract:

Curr Opin Pediatr. 2018 Sep 17. doi: 10.1097/MOP.0000000000000694. [Epub ahead of print]

Migraine in children: presentation, disability and response to treatment.

Slater SK1,2, Powers SW1,2, O’Brien HL3,2.

Author information

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW:

The current review presents findings from investigations of migraine in children. The presentation of pediatric migraine, related consequences, and medication treatments are reviewed.

RECENT FINDINGS:

A number of advancements have been made in the study of the presentation, disability, and treatments for migraine in children. However, recent research suggests that not all approaches are equally effective in the treatment of migraine in children. Specifically, a recent study comparing pharmacological interventions found that preventive medications were not statistically more effective than placebo in children. Consistent findings showing clinically meaningful placebo response rates, shorter duration of headaches and other characteristic features (e.g. frontal, bilateral location) have been barriers to the design of randomized clinical trials in children and adolescents with migraine. Better understanding of treatment mechanisms for medication interventions is needed.

SUMMARY:

Several migraine treatments have determined to be effective for use in children but few controlled studies have evaluated the effectiveness of medication treatments. Recent research suggests that preventive medications may not be more effective than placebo. Additional research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of medication treatment in migraine headache care.

PMID:

30234648

DOI:

Tension-Type Headache: AKA: Tension Headache, Muscle Contraction Headache, Psychomyogenic Headache, Stress Headache, Ordinary Headache, Essential Headache, Idiopathic Headache and Psychogenic Headache.

Tension-Type Headaches are extremely common affecting the majority of the public at some time during their lifetime.  It is commonly associated with Stress or more accurately how patients react to stressful periods. 

There is often considerable cross over between Tension-Type headaches and Medication Overuse Headache.

Tension-Type Headaches can be mild, moderate or severe to very severe and frequently patients refer to them as "my Migraine".  Migraine in Children are often misdiagnosed Tension Type Headaches associated with Myofascial Trigger Points.  Because Migraine pathogenesis is also not well understood there is a great deal of crossover diagnosis.  

This recent study; Eur J Pain. 2018 Feb;22(2):385-392. doi: 10.1002/ejp.1127. Epub 2017 Sep 26.  "CHILDREN WITH MIGRAINE:  PROVOCATION VIA PRESSURE TO MYOFASCIAL TRIGGER POINTS IN THE TRAPZIUS MUSCLE?"  is an excellent example of research which confuses or fails to clarify migraine and tension-type headaches.  The article is excellent looking at headaches from triggerpoints in the Trapezius muscle.  (abstract below at ent of post)

To understand Tension-Type Headaches I believe it  is extremely important to understand and know all of the referral patterns identifies in MPD or Myofascial Pain.  Any physician or dentist is compromised in their quality of care without this knowledge and is likely to  prescribe excessive or inappropriate medications.  

 I believe it is impossible to make a proper diagnosis in many patients until both  active and latent  trigger points have been identified and managed.  This is an essential step in the differential diagnosis and should be completed prior to medication prescriptions for triptans and other medications.

The website www.TriggerPoints.net is an excellent resource for patients and physicians dealing with Tension-Type Headaches and Migraines.  It is taken from the testbook "Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: A Trigger Point Manual"  

I recommend that my patients buy this book to better understand their pain patterns, how they can prevent myofascial trigger points from forming and how they can improve the pain from these trigger points. 

The precise mechanisms of Tension-type headaches are not well understood.  There are many discussions that differentiate central and peripheral mechanisms.

The first known fact about Tension Headaches (and Migraines) is that they are primarily disorders of the Trigeminal Nervous System and the Trigeminal Vascular System.

There is also no question that the autonomic nervous system plays an enormous role especially the Sympathetic nervous system and the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system.  

Chronic Tension Type Headaches are a serious condition that can severely decrease quality of life and cause considerable disability.  

All patients with Tension-Type headaches of a severe or chronic nature should have the effects of the autonomic nervous system evaluated as part of the diagnostic work-up with a minimally invasive Diagnostic Sphenopalatine (Pterygopalatine) Ganglion Block.   https://www.sphenopalatineganglionblocks.com/managing-chronic-headaches-spg-block-sphenopalatine-ganglion-block/

The use of self-administered Sphenopalatine Ganglion (SPG) Blocks can often have almost immediate relief of even severe pain and sometimes spontaneous remission of the underlying headache with repeated use.

These blocks reset the autonomic nervous system and help with stress response (sympathetic) turning off "Fight or Flight Reflex" and turn on the Parasympathetic Reflex ie "Feed and Breed or Eat and Digest Reflex"

There is an incredible histor of pain relief including a 1930 scientific article by Hiram Byrd on "Sphenopalatine Phenomena" and a 1986 popular book "Miracles on Park Avenue" documenting the practice of Dr Milton Reder who exclusively utilized SPG Blocks to treat patients varied types of pain.

Dr Ho published an extensive review Sphenopalatine Ganglion Blocks and Modulation in a 2017 paper.  https://www.sphenopalatineganglionblocks.com/sphenopalatine-ganglion-block-radiofrequency-ablation-neurostimulation-systematic-review/

The concept of Neuromodulation is extremely important because it helps explain the amazing successes of neuromuscular dentistry in treating and eliminating headaches and migraines.  A basic concept in Neuromuscular Dentistry is utilizing the Myomonitor to relax muslces inervated by Trigeminal and facial nerves to find neuromuscular rest and occlusion which serves to give a healthy reset to the trigeminal nervous system as a patient functions and swallows.

The Myomonitor also acts as a Neuromodulation device of the Sphenopalatine Ganglion.  There is an incredible 50 year safety record of Sphenopalatine Stimulation with the Myomonitor when used by Neuromuscular Dentists.

Understanding how these processes work is important.  It is also important to hear patients stories.  This is a link to over 100 patient videos who have been treated with Neuromuscular Dentistry and SPG Blocks for Tension-Type Headaches, Migraines, TMJ disorders, Myofascial Pain and referred headaches and related sleep disorders.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk9Bfz6pklC7_UluWFHzLrg/videos

PubMed Abstract

Eur J Pain. 2018 Feb;22(2):385-392. doi: 10.1002/ejp.1127. Epub 2017 Sep 26.

Children with migraine: Provocation of headache via pressure to myofascialtrigger points in the trapezius muscle? - A prospective controlled observational study.

Landgraf MN1,2, Biebl JT1,2, Langhagen T1,2, Hannibal I1,2, Eggert T2,3, Vill K1, Gerstl L1, Albers L4, von Kries R4, Straube A2,3, Heinen F1,2.

Author information

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

The objective was to evaluate a supposed clinical interdependency of myofascial trigger points and migraine in children. Such interdependency would support an interaction of spinal and trigeminal afferences in the trigemino-cervical complex as a contributing factor in migraine.

METHODS:

Children ≤18 years with the confirmed diagnosis of migraine were prospectively investigated. Comprehensive data on medical history, clinical neurological and psychological status were gathered. Trigger points in the trapezius muscle were identified by palpation and the threshold of pressure pain at these points was measured. Manual pressure was applied to the trigger points, and the occurrence and duration of induced headache were recorded. At a second consultation (4 weeks after the first), manual pressure with the detected pressure threshold was applied to non-trigger points within the same trapezius muscle (control). Headache and related parameters were again recorded and compared to the results of the first consultation.

RESULTS:

A total of 13 girls and 13 boys with migraine and a median age of 14.5 (Range 6.3-17.8) years took part in the study. Manual pressure to trigger points in the trapezius muscle led to lasting headache after termination of the manual pressure in 13 patients while no patient experienced headache when manual pressure was applied to non-trigger points at the control visit (p < 0.001). Headache was induced significantly more often in children ≥12 years and those with internalizing behavioural disorder.

CONCLUSION:

We found an association between trapezius muscle myofascial trigger points and migraine, which might underline the concept of the trigemino-cervical complex, especially in adolescents.

SIGNIFICANCE:

In children with migraine headache can often be induced by pressure to myofascial trigger points, but not by pressure to non-trigger points in the trapezius muscle. This supports the hypothesis of a trigemino-cervical-complex in the pathophysiology of migraine, which might have implications for innovative therapies in children with migraine.

© 2017 European Pain Federation - EFIC®.

PMID:

 

28952174

 

DOI:

 

10.1002/ejp.1127

My Headaches Are Destroying My Relationships and My Family

From www. IHATEHeadaches.org e-mail

Susan: I have been having severe chronic daily headaches for over 5 years. I have been diagnosed as sinus headaches, migraines, atypical migraines, TMJ, Trigeminal Neuralgia. I have had numerous CAT Scans and MRI that all appear normal. I have tried multiple medications that seem to slightly ease the pain on a temporay basis but I do not remember the last time I was pain free. My marital life is a mess and my husband doesn't understand how I can have so much pain when all the tests are normal. I am constantly yelling at the kids and the feel horribly guilty. My friends have all but cut off contact but it is probably my fault. I wish the scans could find a tumor so everyone would know the pain was real.
I'm desperate but that just seems to make the pain even worse.

Dr Shapira:
Susan, Please do not give up. I have heard many stories similar to yours. First, because all of the tests have been negative for disease there is excellent hope for significant improvement.. I suggest you seek out a Neuromuscular Dentist who also understands chronic Myofascial Pain and the use of Trigger Point Injections, Sphenopalatine Ganglion Blocks, Spray and stretch techniques.

Susan, it is important to understand that eliminating your pain is not a cure. You have been forever changed by the hell you have been experiencing. The only real cure would be a do-over on the last five years of your life. The goal of treatment is eliminate pain and restore quality to your life and allow you to reconnect with your husband, children, family and friends. The pain you have lived with has changed who you are forever but that may just make you appreciate your life more in the future.

The medical model for Chronic Headaches is diagnostic test and then perscription medicine. I find that patients who have symptoms you describe are easier to treat than expected. I usually spend 1-2 hours on an initial consultation with new patients. Initially we talk so I can understand who you are, how the pain is affecting you, your life and your family. The next part of the consultation is to try to eliminate some or all of the pain you are experiencing at that time.

I usually begin with trigger point deactivation of the cranial and upper body muscles. It is amazing how frequently we can elimnate all or most of the pain just by utilizing techniques described by Dr Janet Travell over 50 years ago. Dt Travell was President John F Kennedy's physician.

The majority of all pain patients experience is muscular in orgin, and turning off the pain allows us to understand the undrlying processes. At this same visit we will make a trial change of proprioception into the central nervous system from the trigeminal nerves.

We can usually eliminate most pain during the first visit the hard work is to make these changes on a long term basis. I tell my patients to set a goal of 50-80% reduction in pain initially. As treatment progresses we continually try to remove 50-80% of remaining pain. This is accomplished by utilizing a diagnostic neuromuscular orthotic to change how the muscles function and to alter trigeminal nerve proprioceptive input to the brain.  Over time there are postural changes and healing.

I often find that I "meet" my patients at the third or fourth appointment.  The patient I meet initially is the person living in pain for months or years but after a few visits I meet the real person who was lost under an avalanche of pain.  There is a great joy in watching people recover and regain their lives.

I practice Neuromuscular Dentistry and Pain Treatment as part of my Chicago area TMJ practice.

TENSION HEADACHE AND TMJ Disorders: Highland Park / Lake Forest NEW OFFICE OPEN December 2014

Tension Headaches are a type of Trigmeminal Nerve innervated muscle contraction headache. They are closely related to TMJ Disorders (TMD) and postural distortions like a forward head position. Tension Headaches and Chronic Daily Headaches are essentially variations of Muscle Contaction Headaches. Frequently severe muscle pain headaches are called Migraines or Atypical Migraines but are in reality primarily caused by muscle trigger points.  My new office dedicated to treatment of TMJ disorders and Sleep apnea  is opening in Highland Park in December 2014

It is important to remember that all muscle contraction headaches are a form of repetitive strain injuries. When there is a postural distortion or bite problem the muscles adapt to protect the whole If there is an acute injury Muscle Splinting will occur. This is where the muscle tighten to protect an injured site.

The good news is that Neuromuscular Dentistry can usually quickly and effectively correct these problems. My new Highland Park office dedicated to treating TMJ disorders, Headaches, Migraines and Sleep Disordered Breathing visitwww.thinkbetterlife.com for more information on TMJ Disorders and Neuromuscular Dentistry. WWW.ihateheadaches.org is another excellent site concerning chronic headaches and correction with Neuromuscular Dentistry.

Muscle Splinting is normal, in fact it is ideal on a short term basis to protect an injured joint, muscle or tendon. Problems arise when Muscle Splinting is no longer needed but Chronic Muscle Contracture occurs. This will often result in Tight Bands in the Muscle and Trigger Points in the tight bands.

Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction is when there is chronic muscle shortening with associated trigger points. It is similar, in many ways to Fibromyalgia but is more regional in nature. TMJ Dysfunction Patients (TMD) frequently have widespread myofascial Pain and Dysfunction throughout the Head, Neck, Shoulders and Upper Back.

Trigger points and muscle problems tend to spread from one area of the body to another as the muscles continually try to adapt to protect the whole. Unfortunately the muscles work past their Adaptive Capacity. When there is widespread muscle pain, taut bands and pain the condition is called Fibromyalgia and it is often treated as a Rheumatic Systemic Disease but frequently it is best addressed one area at a time, correcting function and eventually having the entire system working again as a single unit.

Patients with chronic pain often develop Alpha Intrusion into Delta Sleep which is the marker for Fibromyalgia. The deep sleep is disturbed resulting in increased pain and sympathetic nervous system activity.

Sleep disordered breathing greatly contributes to these problems. Patients may snore loudly or have sleep apnea where they periodically quit breathing but the female patients and younger, thinner heather males and females often have UARS or Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome that leaves them tired and sore and ruins their sleep but without the classic symptoms. Learn more about Sleep Apnea and UARS at www.ihatecpap.com that discusses sleep disordered breathing and comfortable alternatives to CPAP for treating these airway issues.

Sleep Well Illinois is a new company working to do universal sleep screening in Physicians offices to help identify these patients.

WHY IS NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY SO SUCCESSFUL IN TREATING TMJ (TMD) DISORDERS AND HEADACHES. THE PRESENCE OF MYOFASCIAL PAIN IS THE LINK

TREATMENT OF TMD, TMJ DISORDERS, TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE AND MIGRAINE HAVE WIDE AREAS OF OVERLAP. THIS OVERLAP IS IN SYMPTOMS AND CAUSES BUT MYOFASCIAL TRIGGER POINTS ARE A MAJOR SOURCE OF PAIN.

NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY IS VERY SUCCESSFUL AT TREATING TMJ, TMD AND MYOFASCIAL PAIN DISORDERS OF THE HEAD AND NECK. PATIENTS WHO DO NOT WANT LONG TERM DRUG THERAPY SHOULD CONSIDER THE NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTRY APPROACH TO IMPROVING THE HEALTH OF THE MASTICATORY SYSTEM, RELIEVING CHRONIC MUSCLE PAIN AND MYOFASCIAL TRIGGER POINTS AND PREVENTING CENTRAL SENSITIZATION.

THE LITERATURE STRONGLY SUPPORTS THE ROLE OF MUSCLES IN CHRONIC PAIN. A DIAGNOSTIC NEUROMUSCULAR ORTHOTIC IS AN IDEAL FIRST STEP FOR LONG TERM TREATMENT OF TMJ (TMD) DISORDERS AND HEADACHES. NEUROMUSCULAR DENTISTS FREQUENTLY WORK IN CONJUNCTION WITH PHYSICAL THERAPISTS, CHIROPRACTERS, OSTEOPATHS AND MASSAGE THERAPISTS.

IMPROVING THE QULITY OF LIFE OF PATIENTS ARISING FROM MUSCULAR DISORDERS AND IDEALIZING HOMEOSTASIS ARE BASIC TO NEUROMUSCULAR DENTAL TREATMENT.

There are 576 scientific articles that come up on a PubMed search using key terms of Myofascial Pain and TMJ. 221 PubMed articles come up searching Myofascial pain and Headache, and 61 articles when searching Myofascial Pain and Migraine. There are another 80 articles that come up searching Myofascial Pain and Tension-type Headaches.

Myofascial Pain is a constant in these searches. Myofascial pain results from repetitive overuse syndromes and is commonly considered a major component of TMD.
Neuromuscular Dentistry is directed toward treating myofascial pain, muscle spasm and other muscular disorders of the masticatory system.

An article "Temporomandibular Disorders are Differentially Associated With Headache Diagnoses: A Controlled Study." published in Feb 2011 Clinical Journal of Pain (abstract below) found that " TMD, TMD subtypes, and TMD severity are independently associated with specific headache syndromes and with headache frequency. This differential association suggests that the presence of central facilitation of nociceptive inputs may be of importance, as positive association was observed only when muscular TMD pain was involved."

Central facillitation is central to many theories on why some patients get chronic headaches and migraines. Another article, "Referred pain from myofascial trigger points in head and neck-shoulder muscles reproduces head pain features in children with chronic tension type headache." in the Feb 2011 Journal of Headache Pain (abstract below) confirms that tension type headaches in children are associated with myofascial pain.

The article states that "TrPs (myofascial trigger points) were identified with palpation and considered active when local and referred pains reproduce headache pain attacks." and that "The total number of TrPs was significantly greater in children with CTTH (chronic tension type headache) as compared to healthy children"

More significantly it stated "Active TrPs were only present in children with CTTH (P < 0.001). Within children with CTTH, a significant positive association between the number of active TrPs and headache duration (r (s) = 0.315; P = 0.026) was observed: the greater the number of active TrPs, the longer the duration of headache attack.

THIS MEANS THAT TRIGGER POINTS CAUSE TENSION TYPE HEADACHES IN CHILDREN, THE MORE TRIGGER POINTS THAT WERE PRESENT THE LONGER THE HEADACHES LASTED.

The study found a similar association with neck pain and trigger points " Our results showed that the local and referred pains elicited from active TrPs in head, neck and shoulder shared similar pain pattern as spontaneous CTTH in children, supporting a relevant role of active TrPs in CTTH in children."

Another 2011 article "The relationship of temporomandibular disorders with headaches: a retrospective analysis." (abstract below)found that "The TMJ and associated orofacial structures should be considered as possible triggering or perpetuating factors for headaches, especially tension-type. There might be a significant connection between TMD and headache. However, most medical and dental practitioners are unaware of this relationship. Therefore, a careful evaluation of the TMJ and associated orofacial structures is required for a correct interpretation of the craniofacial pain in headache patients, and these patients should be managed with a multidisciplinary approach."

THIS MEANS THAT HEADACHES, ESPECIALLY TENSION-TYPE HEADACHES ARE FREQUENTLY CAUSED ASSOCIATED WITH TMD OR TMJ DISORDERS.

ANOTHER STUDY FROM DECEMBER 2010 JOURNAL PAIN "Influence of headache frequency on clinical signs and symptoms of TMD in subjects with temple headache and TMD pain." SHOWED CORRELATIONS OF HEADACHE FREQUENCY TO TMD.

THEY CONCLUDED THAT "these findings suggest that these headaches may be TMD related, as well as suggesting a possible role for peripheral and central sensitization in TMD patients. Subjects with painful temporomandibular disorders (TMD) showed significant trends for increased signs and symptoms of TMD associated with increased frequency of concurrent temple headaches."

THIS MEANS THAT THE CENTRAL SENSITIZATION FOUND IN HEADACHES, MIGRAINES AND FIBROMYALGIA ARE POSSIBLY DUE TO TMD.

THE ARTICLE "Pure tension-type headache versus tension-type headache in the migraineur." FROM Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2010 Dec;14(6):465-9. STATES THAT IT CAN BE DIFFICULT TO DIFFERENTIATE MIGRAINE, TENSION TYPE HEADACHES AND SYMPTOMS OF TMD ESPECIALLY IN THE CASE OF CHRONIC PAIN.








Clin J Pain. 2011 Feb 28. [Epub ahead of print]
Temporomandibular Disorders are Differentially Associated With Headache Diagnoses: A Controlled Study.

Gonçalves DA, Camparis CM, Speciali JG, Franco AL, Castanharo SM, Bigal ME.

*Department of Dental Materials and Prosthodontics, Araraquara Dental School, Sao Paulo State University †Department of Neurology, School of Medicine at Ribeirao Preto, University of Sao Paulo Ribeirao Preto, São Paulo, Brazil ‡Department of Neurology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY §Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, PA, USA.
Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are considered to be comorbid with headaches. Earlier population studies have suggested that TMD may also be a risk factor for migraine progression. If that is true, TMD should be associated with specific headache syndromes (eg, migraine and chronic migraine), but not with headaches overall. Accordingly, our aim was to explore the relationship between TMD subtypes and severity with primary headaches in a controlled clinical study.

METHODS: The sample consisted of 300 individuals. TMDs were assessed using the Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMD, and primary headache was classified according to International Classification for Headache Disorders-2. Univariate and multivariate models assessed headache diagnoses and frequency as a function of the parameters of TMD.

RESULTS: Relative to those without TMD, individuals with myofascial TMD were significantly more likely to have chronic daily headaches (CDHs) [relative risk (RR)=7.8; 95% confidence interval (CI), 3.1-19.6], migraine (RR=4.4; 95% CI, 1.7-11.7), and episodic tension-type headache (RR=4.4; 95% CI, 1.5-12.6). Grade of TMD pain was associated with increased odds of CDH (P<0.0001), migraine (P<0.0001), and episodic tension-type headache (P<0.05). TMD severity was also associated with headache frequency. In multivariate analyses, TMD was associated with migraine and CDH (P=0.001). Painful TMD (P=0.0034) and grade of TMD pain (P<0.001) were associated with headache frequency.

DISCUSSION: TMD, TMD subtypes, and TMD severity are independently associated with specific headache syndromes and with headache frequency. This differential association suggests that the presence of central facilitation of nociceptive inputs may be of importance, as positive association was observed only when muscular TMD pain was involved.

PMID: 21368664 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

J Headache Pain. 2011 Feb 27. [Epub ahead of print]
Referred pain from myofascial trigger points in head and neck-shoulder muscles reproduces head pain features in children with chronic tension type headache.

Fernández-de-Las-Peñas C, Fernández-Mayoralas DM, Ortega-Santiago R, Ambite-Quesada S, Palacios-Ceña D, Pareja JA.

Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Avenida de Atenas s/n, 28922, Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain, cesar.fernandez@urjc.es.
Abstract

Our aim was to describe the referred pain pattern and areas from trigger points (TrPs) in head, neck, and shoulder muscles in children with chronic tension type headache (CTTH). Fifty children (14 boys, 36 girls, mean age: 8 ± 2) with CTTH and 50 age- and sex- matched children participated. Bilateral temporalis, masseter, superior oblique, upper trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, suboccipital, and levator scapula muscles were examined for TrPs by an assessor blinded to the children's condition. TrPs were identified with palpation and considered active when local and referred pains reproduce headache pain attacks. The referred pain areas were drawn on anatomical maps, digitalized, and also measured. The total number of TrPs was significantly greater in children with CTTH as compared to healthy children (P < 0.001). Active TrPs were only present in children with CTTH (P < 0.001). Within children with CTTH, a significant positive association between the number of active TrPs and headache duration (r (s) = 0.315; P = 0.026) was observed: the greater the number of active TrPs, the longer the duration of headache attack. Significant differences in referred pain areas between groups (P < 0.001) and muscles (P < 0.001) were found: the referred pain areas were larger in CTTH children (P < 0.001), and the referred pain area elicited by suboccipital TrPs was larger than the referred pain from the remaining TrPs (P < 0.001). Significant positive correlations between some headache clinical parameters and the size of the referred pain area were found. Our results showed that the local and referred pains elicited from active TrPs in head, neck and shoulder shared similar pain pattern as spontaneous CTTH in children, supporting a relevant role of active TrPs in CTTH in children.

PMID: 21359873 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Agri. 2011 Jan;23(1):13-7.
The relationship of temporomandibular disorders with headaches: a retrospective analysis.

Cakır Özkan N, Ozkan F.

Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Gaziosmanpaşa University Faculty of Medicine, Tokat, Turkey.
Abstract

Objectives: The objective of this study was to retrospectively analyze the incidence of the concurrent existence of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and headaches. Methods: Forty patients (36 female, 4 male, mean age: 29.9±9.6 years) clinically diagnosed with TMD were screened. Patient records were analyzed regarding: range of mouth opening, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) noises, pain on palpation of the TMJ and masticatory muscles and neck and upper back muscles, and magnetic resonance imaging of the TMJ. Results: According to patient records, a total of 40 (66.6%) patients were diagnosed with TMD among 60 patients with headache. Thirty-two (53%) patients had TMJ internal derangement (ID), 8 (13%) patients had only myofascial pain dysfunction (MPD) and 25 (41.6%) patients had concurrent TMJ ID/MPD. There were statistically significant relationships between the number of tender masseter muscles and MPD patients (p=0.04) and between the number of tender medial pterygoid muscles and patients with reducing disc displacement (RDD) (p=0.03). Conclusion: The TMJ and associated orofacial structures should be considered as possible triggering or perpetuating factors for headaches, especially tension-type. There might be a significant connection between TMD and headache. However, most medical and dental practitioners are unaware of this relationship. Therefore, a careful evaluation of the TMJ and associated orofacial structures is required for a correct interpretation of the craniofacial pain in headache patients, and these patients should be managed with a multidisciplinary approach.

PMID: 21341147 [PubMed - in process]

Pain. 2010 Dec 31. [Epub ahead of print]
Influence of headache frequency on clinical signs and symptoms of TMD in subjects with temple headache and TMD pain.

Anderson GC, John MT, Ohrbach R, Nixdorf DR, Schiffman EL, Truelove ES, List T.

University of Minnesota School of Dentistry, Department of Developmental and Surgical Sciences, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
Abstract

The relationship of the frequency of temple headache to signs and symptoms of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders (TMD) was investigated in a subset of a larger convenience sample of community TMD cases. The study sample included 86 painful TMD, nonheadache subjects; 309 painful TMD subjects with varied frequency of temple headaches; and 149 subjects without painful TMD or headache for descriptive comparison. Painful TMD included Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders diagnoses of myofascial pain, TMJ arthralgia, and TMJ osteoarthritis. Mild to moderate-intensity temple headaches were classified by frequency using criteria based on the International Classification of Headache Disorder, 2nd edition, classification of tension-type headache. Outcomes included TMD signs and symptoms (pain duration, pain intensity, number of painful masticatory sites on palpation, mandibular range of motion), pressure pain thresholds, and temple headache resulting from masticatory provocation tests. Trend analyses across the painful TMD groups showed a substantial trend for aggravation of all of the TMD signs and symptoms associated with increased frequency of the temple headaches. In addition, increased headache frequency showed significant trends associated with reduced PPTs and reported temple headache with masticatory provocation tests. In conclusion, these findings suggest that these headaches may be TMD related, as well as suggesting a possible role for peripheral and central sensitization in TMD patients. Subjects with painful temporomandibular disorders (TMD) showed significant trends for increased signs and symptoms of TMD associated with increased frequency of concurrent temple headaches.
Copyright © 2010 International Association for the Study of Pain. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

PMID: 21196079 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2010 Dec;14(6):465-9.
Pure tension-type headache versus tension-type headache in the migraineur.

Blumenfeld A, Schim J, Brower J.

The Headache Center of Southern California, 320 Santa Fe Drive, Encinitas, CA 92024, USA. blumenfeld@neurocenter.com
Abstract

Primary headache disorders include tension-type headache and migraine. These headache types can be differentiated based on strict clinical definitions that depend on the patient's signs and symptoms. However, some of the clinical features can overlap, and in addition, the same comorbid conditions can occur in both headache types. Distinction between these headache types on occasion can be difficult due to comorbid conditions such as temporomandibular joint disorders and myofascial pain with forward head posturing, which may be present in both headache disorders, and thus result in similar features in both conditions. Furthermore, chronification, particularly of migraine, leads to a decrease in the associated symptoms of migraine, such as nausea, photophobia, and phonophobia, so that these headaches more closely resemble tension-type headache. Finally, in some patients, both tension-type headache and migraine may occur at different times.

PMID: 20878271 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Continuous headache with earache and eye ache.

David: I have had continous Headaches for 3-4 months now. sides and back of head mainly. Earache and eye ache as well

Dr Shapira: David, you have given me only minimal infformation on what treatment you have received or any special circumstances when the pain started. The good news is the symptoms you describe indicate that you probably have headaches of muscular orgins. Tension-Type Headaches (TTH) are commononly associated with the jaw and neck muscles. Achy type pain as you describe in your ears and eyes is nearly always referred muscualar pain.

An excellent approach is to visit a Neuromuscular Dentist who is also trained in using Vapocoolant spray to treat Myofascial pain. If stretch and spray gives relief of the headache, earache and eye ache you will confirm the muscular component.

Because almost all Tension Type Headaches are influences by the Trigeminal Nervous system you will probably do well by tring a Diagnostic Neuromuscular Orthotic as a non-invasive safe diagnostic and treatment entity. If yo get complete relief you will confirm that the headache is muscular and trigeminally modulated.

Occasionally trigger point injections are needed to break-up long standing muscle issues.

intense jaw pain on left side, swollen jaw and cheek, no dental issues per dentist and endodontist...tmj or trigeminal neuralgia?

I recently received a e-mail from a patient with the following complaint:

intense jaw pain on left side, swollen jaw and cheek, no dental issues per dentist and endodontist...tmj or trigeminal neuralgia?

The question TMJ or Trigeminal Neuralgia is very limited. 95% of all pain that patients experience is muscle pain. Many patients have severe or even excruciating pain but their TM Joints are normal. These are neuromuscular problems and may have many contributing factors. Trigeminal Neuralgia is rarely the cause of pain and when it is there is usually very specific triggers. The pain usually comes and goes going from normal to intense pain after stimulating trigger.

KI have seen patients with similar symptoms that are later tracked back to cracked toooth syndrome that was not evident early on. Vacumn sinusits can also give similar symptoms.

That said, the most common cause of pain is myofascial pain acute muscle spasm, myositis or other pain of muscular orgin.

A simple test that all general dentists and/or endodontists should know is how to do trigger point deactivation with a vapocoolant and stretch that can often give instanyt pain relief. Use of a diagnostic block to the muscle can also correct these problems when used to make a differential diagnosis.

The patient did not describe whether the pain was affected by jaw movement, if there was limited opening, or many other vital facts to know if there was joint involvement.

The correct approach is to make an accurate diagnosis. This involves a thorough evaluation of the jaw musclesand (TMJ) joints but also the head and neck musculature.

The best route is to seek out a neuromuscular dentist who is trained to evaluate and correct these problems.

I frequently see patients in Chicago who have not found help locally.

Diagnosis is the key to successful treatment. Treatment should be reversible until significant pain relief is accomplished and both the patient and the doctor are comfortable with primary and secondary diagnosis.

Trigger point injections are an essential part of TMD, Migraine and Headache treatment for many patients

The importance of this study though extremely limited is that it explains why understanding Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction is essential when chronic pain problems including neck pain, headache and TMD disorders. In this study a single injection in the trapezius muscle (shoulder) gave significant reduction in pain in the masseter region along with reduction in EMG values.

There are hundreds of trigger point areas. It is essential to see a physiian or dentist who understands Myofascial Pain and knows how to preform trigger point injections as well as trigger point deactivation with vapocoolants.

Treating patients with drugs and not addressing underlying causes of pain is like painting your ceiling every time it rains instead of fixing where your roof leaks. Neuromuscular Dentistry is used to create a healthy environment where trigger points do not return.

Pain. 1993 Dec;55(3):397-400.
Reduction of pain and EMG activity in the masseter region by trapezius trigger point injection.
Carlson CR, Okeson JP, Falace DA, Nitz AJ, Lindroth JE.

Department of Psychology, College of Dentistry, University of Kentucky, Lexington 40536.
Abstract
In this open, uncontrolled trial, 20 patients with upper trapezius muscle trigger point pain and ipsilateral masseter muscle pain received a single trigger point injection of 2% lidocaine solution (without epinephrine) in the upper trapezius muscle. Following the trapezius injection, there was a significant (P < 0.001) reduction in pain intensity ratings for pain in the masseter region. In addition, there was a significant (P < 0.03) reduction in EMG activity in the masseter muscle. Overall, however, a significant relationship between EMG activity in the masseter and the self-report of pain was not found with the present data set. These clinical findings support the contention that sources of deep pain can produce heterotopic sensory and motor changes in distant anatomical regions.

PMID: 8121703 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

MYOFASCIAL EXAMINATION LEADS TO DIAGNOSIS AND SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT OF MIGRAINE HEADACHE

A new article in the Journal of Musculoskeletal Pain by Michael Sorrell, MD of Tufts University showed excellent results in treating Migraine utilizing trigger point injections and physical therapy with supervised home stretching. The examination of the myofascial trigger points is a step rarely done in working up migraine patients,The majority of patients had received previous diagnosis of migraine and had undergone unsuccessful drug treatment. These patients were unaware that their pain could be referred from muscles until the examination of the muscles revealed the referred pain.

The examination did not include all of the the masticatory muscles but did include masseter and temporalis muscles,the sternocleidomastoid muscle,the trapezius muscle, the corrugater supercilius, the semispinalis, splenius cevicus and capitus muscles, as well as the suboccipitalis and levator scapulae muscles. If muscle palpation examination reproduced the headache the patients were included in the trial.

This study only included patients with chronic migraine and migraine without aura whose pain could be reproduced from muscle examination. A subgroup of 11 patients with Migraine with aura (5 of 11 patients migraine symptoms reproduced on examination) was also included in the study. Those patients did remarkably well with 68% mean improvement in those receiving physical therapy and home stretching compared to 5% improvement in the group not utilizing physical medicine. Over 88% of the study group reported over 50% improvment.

This is an important article primarily because it is from a neurology group treating migraines. It is well known that tension type headaches respond to physical medicine and treatment of myofascial trigger point. Migraines are usually very responsive to physical medicine as well. The field of Neuromuscular Dentistry actively focuses on the elimination trigger through use of TENS, TP injections, Spray and Stretch and other techniques as well. More importantly use of neuromuscular trigger points prevents the formation of new trigger points.

The examination in the above article ignored many of the masticatory muscles known to creat migraine like symptoms.

There is also an important concept of myofascial triggers serving as a trigger for migraines. Removal of these triggers can eliminate future migraines.

I have frequently seen migraine patients achieve complete relief thru a combination of a neuromuscular diagnostic orthotic and physical medicine modalities. I have seen other patient who have greatly reduced frequency of migraine but when a migraine does occur medication is still necessary due to severity. This is common with hormonal headaches and migraines. I will have a patient with severe diaily migraines that are eliminated but the patient qwill still have a tension type headache or migraine at ovulation or prior to Menses.

These are patients who I believe we have relieved the myofascial components of their pain but the hormonal triggers remain. The headaches that are then present are less severe. Other patients may only get the aura when presented with triggers but no pain. I do believe that evaluation and elimination of myofascial triggers is important for all migraine patients but in some patients the myofacial trigger points are a secondary result of the migraine pain rather that a primary cause of migraine. It is still important to eliminate these secondary trigger points so the do not increase and become a primary problem.