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Updated: Jul 2, 2026

Subcutaneous Trigeminal Nerve Field Stimulation for Refractory Facial Pain
Published on: May 10, 2017
The role of extraocular and facial muscle trigger points in cephalalgia
Cristin A McMurray1, Zahid H Bajwa
1Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Arnold Pain Management Center, One Brookline Place, Suite 105, Brookline, MA 02445, USA.
Abstract:
Trigger points play a part in the development and maintenance of chronic headache states. This article reviews the physiology of trigger points, with a focus on the -latest understanding of their biochemistry. The importance of facial muscle and extraocular muscle trigger points is only beginning to be understood; the data exploring their role in headache are reviewed. The concept of central sensitization and the way in which it relates to trigger points and headache is explained, along with treatment strategies for helping patients with their pain.
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