Migraine Science
New Insights into Migraine Pathophysiology
Posted on July 06 2024,
Stay in the Loop on the Latest in Migraine:
CSD Phase
Cortical Spreading Depression (CSD)
CSD Phase
Wave of Brain Activity Suppression
NEW
CSF Phase
CSF Proteome Alterations
~11% of CSF proteome altered after CSD
CSF Phase
Up-regulation of Trigeminal-activating Proteins
CSF Phase
CGRP in CSF
Known to increase during migraine attacks
NEW
Trigeminal Phase
CSF Flow into Trigeminal Ganglion
Newly discovered pathway for pain signaling
NEW
Trigeminal Phase
New Zone without Epineural Sheath
Area in trigeminal ganglion allowing direct CSF contact
NEW
Trigeminal Phase
Nonsynaptic Brain-Trigeminal Signaling
Direct communication between the CNS and PNS via CSF
Trigeminal Phase
Altered CSF Contacts Trigeminal Neurons
Pain Phase
Activation of Trigeminal Nerve Cells
Pain Phase
Headache/Migraine Pain
Pain Phase
Migraine Attack Symptoms Experienced
Resolution Phase
Temporary Process
Resolution Phase
CSF Proteome Normalizes
Resolution Phase
Decrease in Pain Signals
Resolution Phase
Migraine Attack Subsides
Reference: Rasmussen et al. (2024). Cortical spreading depression opens a paravascular space in the trigeminal ganglion. Science, 385(6320), 80-85. DOI: 10.1126/science.adq3498
Wed, Jul 22, 26
The Best Roller for Migraine: How to Choose One That Actually Works
Not all migraine rollers are created equal. Here is what actually matters in a migraine roller, what to avoid, and why CROWN is our top lavender-free pick.
Read MoreWed, Jul 22, 26
Acupuncture for Migraine Without Aura: What Sham-Controlled Trials Actually Show
A 2026 meta-analysis pooled only sham-controlled trials and found acupuncture modestly reduced migraine frequency and pain intensity in adults with migraine without aura. Certainty of the evidence was low to...
Read MoreMon, Jul 20, 26
Migraine Treatment in Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Migraine hits hardest during the reproductive years. Here is what the latest evidence says about which migraine medications are safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, from triptans and NSAIDs to topiramate,...
Read More
