| abstract |
A new non-invasive, non-toxic, non-sedating method for treatment of vascular headaches (migraine and cluster), tension headache, atypical (chronic) facial pain, allergic rhinitis and cervical muscle spasm is presented. This method comprises the application of cold or frozen water or saline (0-4 C.), cold metal, or ice to the area of tenderness associated with the plexus formed by the posterior and middle superior alveolar branches of the ipsilateral maxillary nerve, as well as to other branches of the trigeminal nerve. The cold or frozen water or saline can be applied indirectly when contained in small bags, tubes or packs made of plastic film, latex, silicone, or the like. Metal tubes can also be used which have been chilled by either running cold water or ice ice through their hollow interiors. Preferably plastic tubes encasing a column of ice, which ice can be extruded gradually by the patient or clinician by means of a plunger inserted into the tubes are used. Alleviation of pain is noted within a short period of the onset of the treatment. Repeated treatment even during pain-free periods offers protracted benefits, i.e., prevention or amelioration of the headaches or other conditions. |