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Migraines can be a debilitating condition, and finding effective treatments is crucial for those who suffer from them. A recent study published in Pain Physician compared two common approaches for managing migraines: greater occipital nerve blocks (GONBs) and greater occipital nerve pulsed radiofrequency (GONPRF), both performed with ultrasound guidance.

The study, conducted at a single center, involved patients diagnosed with migraines who experienced attacks frequently and had not found relief from preventive medications. The patients were divided into two groups. One group received repeated GONBs, administered weekly for four weeks. The other group underwent GONPRF. Both procedures targeted the greater occipital nerve at the C2 level using a proximal technique guided by ultrasound. The researchers then tracked the duration, frequency, and severity of headaches, as well as any side effects, for three months following the treatments.

The results indicated that while both treatments provided some relief, GONPRF demonstrated a significantly greater reduction in headache duration, frequency, and severity compared to GONBs. Patients in the GONPRF group experienced shorter headache durations, fewer headache attacks, and lower pain scores. The study concluded that ultrasound-guided proximal GONPRF offers a more effective and longer-lasting solution for migraine patients, providing relief for at least three months. This research suggests GONPRF may be a preferable option, particularly for those who cannot attend weekly treatments, offering a promising avenue for managing this challenging condition. Side effects were reported as mild and transient in both groups.

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