Neuroscience Institute: Headache Clinic Scope of Services

Which conditions does the Headache Clinic treat?

Our clinic specializes in the diagnosis and management of primary headaches including:

·         Migraines: Chronic migraine, refractory migraine, episodic migraine

·         Post-traumatic headache

·         New daily persistent headache (NDPH)

·        Trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TCAs): cluster headache,   paroxysmal hemicrania, hemicrania continua, SUNCT, SUNA

·       Cranial neuralgias: trigeminal neuralgia, occipital neuralgia, and glossopharyngeal neuralgia

·        Chronic intractable tension type headache

·        Headaches due to low or high intracranial pressure

What treatments are provided at the Headache Clinic?

We offer our patients pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments using a multidimensional and individualized approach. The goal of treatment is to help patients manage their headaches and to improve quality of life.

·        Pharmacological treatment: acute and preventive treatment for headaches

·       Procedural treatment: Botox injections for chronic migraine, occipital nerve blocks, trigeminal nerve blocks, sphenopalatine ganglion blocks, trigger point injections

·       Complementary treatment: headache preventive supplements

·       Lifestyle modification

What conditions and treatments are NOT provided at the Headache Clinic?

We do not offer narcotics for headache treatment. When patients present to us on those types of medications, we collaborate with the prescribing providers to help patients wean off of those medications when possible. Although neck and shoulder pain are commonly associated with primary headaches, evaluation and management of neck and/or shoulder pain are often deferred to primary care. We do not provide evaluation for disability.

Who is the provider and where is the clinic located?

Alexey Shikuev, MD, is the Headache Clinic neurologist. The clinic is on the main VMC campus in the Northwest Pavilion Neuroscience Institute. The phone is 425.690.3585 and the fax is 425.690.9585.

How do I consult with the Headache Clinic about a potential referral?

We see patients on a referral basis only. Referrals directed to Dr. Shikuev will be reviewed by the clinic and the appointment will be made selectively depending on the need for specific treatments.