Botox injections can relieve chronic headaches

Botox is best known as a treatment for smoothing facial wrinkles. In recent years, however, its therapeutic uses have expanded.

Since 2010, the FDA has officially approved Botox for the treatment of chronic migraine. Chronic migraine is defined as a headache lasting for more than 15 days per month.

It is estimated that 3.2 million people in the United States suffer from this disabling condition, and many report significant improvement thanks to Botox therapy.

Botox helps prevent migraines, but time is needed before the therapy takes full effect. The injections are administered in the areas where pain is felt. Once Botox reaches the nerve endings near the injection site, it blocks the release of chemicals responsible for transmitting pain signals.

Most patients report that the benefits increase with repeated treatments, which may take up to six months to achieve maximum relief.

The most commonly reported side effect of Botox treatment for chronic migraine is mild neck pain.

Possible side effects usually improve or resolve within 7–10 days after treatment, while the debilitating migraine pain is relieved in the meantime.