For those who suffer from migraines, any solution provided by your doctor seems worth a shot. If you have a history of migraines and have attempted to reduce them, you understand how complex and individual getting a solution can be. Most treatment options involve medications and some even involve needles – all come with side effects. What if there was an option that could reduce your pain for up to three months with no medication, needles or side effects and takes only 15-30 minutes to complete? An SPG block might be an effective treatment for you.
What is an SPG?
To understand the SPG block treatment and how it works, we must first explain what the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) is and its role in migraines.
The sphenopalatine ganglion is a cluster of nerves that sit in the back of the nasal cavity. This cluster contains two types of nerves:
- Sensory nerves: These allow us to perceive stimuli
- Autonomic nerves: These are responsible for the bodily processes we don’t think about, like organ function.
Our nervous system is like a highly interconnected highway system, and the SPG is no exception. This cluster lies closely to neural systems in the brain and brain stem that doctors believe are the source of migraines in many patients. Because the SPG itself is not located inside the brain, it is easily accessible and therefore a great place to supply pain relief in migraine sufferers.
How does the SPG block work?
SPG block, or sphenopalatine ganglion block, is a treatment involving an anesthetic (numbing) drip into the back of the nasal cavity where the SPG resides. The dip is administered twice via a catheter, a small plastic tube, one time in each nostril. Patients can experience pain relief immediately and the anesthetic’s full-effects between 15 to 90 minutes.
Think the SPG block may work for you?
For more information on this procedure and other migraine treatment options, schedule an appointment, call us today at 206-316-8286.