Migraines: Carpal Tunnel of the Head?

Carpal tunnel syndrome and migraine headaches are two chronic conditions that debilitate individuals with crippling hand pain and head pain, disrupting day-to-day life.

A migraine is a throbbing, pulsating, concentrated sensation of pain in the head. Migraines can last for days, bringing nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to sound and light.

New research has uncovered a link between the two conditions. Researchers believe that      both might qualify as “compression neuropathy disorders.”

While carpal tunnel syndrome has always been classified as a “compression neuropathy    disorder”, migraine headaches have not been a part of that category.

Recent studies may change that. Researchers found evidence of an “extracranial component  to migraine pathogenesis.”This means that migraines may fall into the compression neuropathy disorder category after all.

Additionally, a study that was published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery-Global Open, showed that patients with CTS have double the chance of having migraine headaches as well.

Interestingly enough, the association is a two-way street, meaning patients with migraines were much more likely to have CTS as well. This indicates a definite link between the two conditions and may very well lead to further research on migraine headaches as a compression neuropathy disorder.

Some patients with chronic migraine have had relief with nerve decompression and surgical release in certain areas of the head and neck. Likewise, botulinum toxin injections (Botox), have had some success in relieving migraine headaches, which can also be said for certain hand pain and finger pain disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

There has also been some debate as to whether nerve decompression surgery may help with both conditions.

At Hand Surgery Specialists of Texas (former Brown Hand Center), we have carpal tunnel surgeons and hand specialists ready to assist in getting rid of hand, wrist, and finger pain. We aim to improve your overall quality of life, allowing you to use your hands the way they were meant to be used.

Additionally, HSST has partnered with the Migraine Relief Center , conveniently located in the same office. If you are suffering from one or both of these conditions, make an appointment. Make today the last day that you are held back because of CTS or chronic migraine headaches.

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The Hand Surgery Specialists of Texas offers diagnosis and treatment for hand, wrist, and elbow problems in Houston, using the most advanced and minimally invasive medical techniques. Our orthopedic hand specialists and hand and finger surgeons are waiting to provide you with excellent care at one of our hand care centers in River Oaks, Webster, North Houston, Katy/Sugarland, or Baytown

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