Surgically inserting a small sponge between the blood vessels and the nerve cells sometimes relieve this pain. Surgery or combinations of antidepressant drugs and mild narcotics like propoxyphene sometimes are effective in treating this condition, and electrical stimulation is thought to hold greatest promise. Back to Top Headache Tension headaches, caused by contractions of muscles in the head and neck muscles, and vascular headaches, resulting from changes in the pressure of blood vessels serving the head, are the most common forms of headache pain. They typically are treated with drugs, although some success has been reported in using biofeedback to control muscle tension. Other treatments, such as hot or cold compresses, can provide temporary relief.
Migraines are intense, throbbing headaches usually on one side of the head.
Research has shown that genetic factors are involved in many migraines, but other factors also may come into play. Different drugs are used to treat migraine pain, but their effectiveness may be affected by when they are used. Some, like the serotonin agonists, which mimic the actions of certain brain chemicals, may work better if taken at the first sign of an oncoming migraine. Low Back Pain Back pain may vary in intensity from a mild ache to crippling agony. Many cases stem from stress on the muscles and ligaments supporting the spine, often associated with obesity and a lack of exercise.