CONDITION

Chronic Headaches & Migraines

Chronic headaches and migraines are more than just occasional discomfort—they’re often debilitating and impact every part of daily life. At Silver Pain Centre in Toronto, we provide personalized, OHIP-covered treatment plans that target the underlying causes and help patients manage pain more effectively.

What are Chronic Headaches & Migraines?

Chronic headaches refer to headaches that occur 15 or more days per month, lasting for at least three months. Migraines are a neurological condition that typically cause severe, throbbing head pain often accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light or sound, and visual disturbances.

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Pain may be one-sided or affect the entire head

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Migraine attacks can last 4 to 72 hours

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Triggered by stress, hormonal changes, sleep disruption, or diet

Why Do Chronic Headaches/Migraines Occur?

Chronic headaches and migraines often stem from a combination of biological, environmental, and lifestyle-related factors. These types of pain can be complex and persistent, making it important to understand the underlying causes. Common triggers and contributing conditions include:

  • Muscle Tension or Cervical Spine Issues: Tightness in the neck, shoulders, or upper back, often caused by poor posture or previous injuries, can lead to tension-type headaches or headaches originating from the neck.

  • Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuations in estrogen and other hormones—commonly experienced during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause—can trigger migraine episodes, especially in women.

  • Neurological Hypersensitivity: Some individuals have an overly sensitive nervous system that responds strongly to stimuli like bright lights, loud noises, certain foods, or changes in weather—common triggers for migraines.

  • Stress or Sleep Irregularities: High levels of stress and inconsistent sleep patterns can disrupt your body’s natural rhythms, contributing to headache frequency and severity. Both physical and emotional stress are key factors in chronic headache disorders.

  • Post-Traumatic or Post-Whiplash Syndromes: A history of head or neck trauma, including concussions or whiplash injuries, can lead to long-term changes in the nervous system and ongoing headache symptoms.

    At Silver Pain Centre, we perform a comprehensive clinical assessment to uncover the root causes of your chronic headaches or migraines. By identifying your specific triggers and pain pathways, we can develop a personalized treatment plan designed to reduce frequency, intensity, and improve your overall quality of life.

    How we Diagnose and Treat at Silver Pain Centre

    At Silver Pain Centre, we begin with a comprehensive history and physical exam. Diagnostic imaging may be used if necessary to rule out secondary causes. From there, we develop a treatment plan that may include
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    Image-guided nerve blocks targeting the head and neck

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    Botox (Onabotulinum toxin) injections for chronic migraine (pending insurance or Section 8 approval)

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    Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for cervical nerves

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    Medication optimization or tapering plans

    When to Seek Help & How We Can Support You

    If you’re experiencing headaches that persist for more than 15 days per month, last several hours or longer, or don’t respond to over-the-counter treatments, it’s time to seek specialized care. Chronic headaches and migraines can worsen over time and may signal an underlying neurological or musculoskeletal issue that requires expert evaluation.

    At Silver Pain Centre, we provide comprehensive, OHIP-covered consultations designed to help you find lasting relief. Here’s how we make a difference:

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    Collaborative Care

    Your case is reviewed by a team of physicians, surgeons, and pain specialists working together to create a personalized treatment plan.
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    Fast Access

    We review self-referrals within 72 hours to minimize wait times and get you the care you need quickly.
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    Advanced Diagnostics

    Our North York facility uses image-guided tools such as ultrasound and fluoroscopy to precisely identify pain sources.
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    Non-Surgical Options

    From nerve blocks to Botox for migraines, we offer targeted treatments tailored to your needs.

    Book A Consultation By Completing A Self-Referral Today!

    If you’re experiencing chronic headaches or migraines, don’t wait. Our team of physicians and pain specialists at Silver Pain Centre will review your self-referral within 72 hours and guide you through an OHIP-covered consultation—either in person or virtually.