Pediatric Headache Expertise, Research and Treatment
National Experience in Headache Care
Our specialists are leaders in national and international headache medicine groups. As one of the founding UCNS-accredited Headache Medicine Fellowship programs focused on young people, Cincinnati Children’s trains future specialists and mentors programs across the country and around the world.
Research That Shapes New Care
Our team has received National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding since 2003. We also take part in research sponsored by industry partners. This work helps us study new ways to manage headaches and improve care.
Some patients may have the chance to take part in research studies. These studies help experts learn more about headache treatment. They also help shape care for children and teens in the future.
A Team With a Shared Plan
Headaches can affect many parts of a child’s life, and each child has different needs. Our team brings together Headache Medicine neurologists, pain psychologists and Nurse Practitioners. They work with your family to create a plan based on your child’s needs.
Treatment may include care for current headaches, steps to prevent future headaches or behavioral support. Some children may benefit from Botox or infusion treatment. For severe headaches, our team also offers inpatient care. We work with other specialists when needed.
Care for Families Near and Far
Families come to our center from across the United States and around the world. Some seek a second opinion for severe or hard-to-treat headaches. You do not need to be referred by another doctor to ask about care. We welcome families who contact us directly, as well as referrals from healthcare providers.
Our team also offers headache care at many Cincinnati Children’s neighborhood locations. A program coordinator helps with referrals, visit planning and access to infusion treatment. This support helps families move through the care process.
Expert Care for Every Type of Headache
We evaluate children with migraine, chronic migraine and other headache disorders. This includes headaches after a concussion and New Daily Persistent Headache. Our team also cares for children with severe headaches that have not improved with other treatment.
Your child’s care may begin with a review of their headache history and health needs. Our specialists use this information to guide diagnosis and treatment. They may recommend medicine to ease current pain, preventive treatment or behavioral care. Infusion treatment may also be an option for some children.
The Headache Center cares for about 4,000 patients each year while continually reviewing outcomes to improve care over time.
