Relief through structured, hospital-based treatment

When headaches or migraines become constant, severe or unresponsive to outpatient treatment, a short inpatient stay can help interrupt the pain cycle. Our hospital-based inpatient program, under the direction of Dr. Merle Diamond and the team from Endeavor Health Diamond Headache & Migraine Center, combines medication management with evidence-based behavioral and rehabilitative therapies, providing 24/7 support in a structured environment. You’ll also receive a clear plan to continue progress after discharge. 

A woman discussing her headaches with two clinicians

Our headache and migraine unit is conveniently located at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights. Diamond has been providing leading-edge headache and migraine treatment for more than 40 years to patients in Chicago, the Midwest and throughout the U.S.

Who benefits from inpatient headache care

You may be a candidate for inpatient care if outpatient treatment hasn’t provided enough relief. We commonly admit patients with:

  • Chronic migraine (15+ headache days/month)
  • Status migrainosus (a migraine attack lasting longer than 72 hours)
  • Medication overuse (rebound) headache
  • Cluster headache and other trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias
  • New daily persistent headache
  • Hemiplegic, vestibular and other complex migraine variants
  • Refractory tension-type or mixed-type headache
  • Headache with significant triggers (stress, sleep disruption, nutrition) that require coordinated support

Your provider with the Endeavor Health Diamond Headache & Migraine Center will confirm whether inpatient care is appropriate after a comprehensive evaluation.

What to expect during your stay

Most patients stay for 3-7 days. Your treatment plan is individualized and may include:

  • Medical therapy: Careful adjustment and monitoring of medications to reduce pain and, when needed, safely tapering any that may worsen headaches.
  • Skill-building and education: Daily sessions focused on stress management, sleep routines, posture, gentle movement, relaxation, nutrition and understanding your medications.
  • Rehabilitative therapies: Physical therapy, biofeedback and, when appropriate, complementary therapies like massage or acupuncture to help reduce pain and restore function.
  • Group support: Opportunities to learn coping strategies, understand triggers and connect with others managing chronic headaches. Family participation is welcome.
  • Coordinated team care: Your care team meets daily to track progress and adjust your plan.
  • Planning ahead: Before discharge, you’ll receive a written plan for continuing therapy, medication management and follow-up care.

A typical day

Your schedule may include therapy sessions, group classes, rest and time for reflection. Wearing your own clothes and taking part in daily activities supports recovery and helps you transition these routines back home.

Group of 5 physicians
Your care team

You’ll be supported by a multidisciplinary team, under the direction of Dr. Merle Diamond from the Endeavor Health Diamond Headache and Migraine Center, that may include headache physicians, nurses, psychologists, biofeedback and recreational therapists, dietitians, pharmacists, physical therapists and counselors. Your team works together each day to guide your progress and ensure your treatment plan fits your needs.

After you go home

Inpatient care is the beginning of a longer-term plan. Many patients continue selected therapies after discharge (e.g., biofeedback sessions, behavioral health, physical therapy) and follow up with their Endeavor Health Diamond Headache & Migraine Center provider to adjust medications as needed. You’ll leave with a written plan and the resources to help you keep improving.

Getting started

Before receiving inpatient headache treatment, you’ll first need to schedule an outpatient evaluation. During this visit, your Endeavor Health Diamond Headache & Migraine Center provider will review your headache history, discuss previous treatments and determine whether an inpatient stay is the right next step. If inpatient care is recommended and your schedule allows, same-day admission may be possible.

To make an appointment for an evaluation, call the Endeavor Health Diamond Headache & Migraine Center at 1-800-HEADACHE (1-800-432-3224).

Our location

Northwest Community Hospital
800 W. Central Road
Arlington Heights, IL 60005

Frequently asked questions

After a thorough headache history and evaluation, your Endeavor Health Diamond Headache & Migraine Center provider will recommend whether outpatient care or a short inpatient stay is best for you. If admission is advised, your care team will review timing options with you. Same-day admission may be possible, or a later date can be arranged to fit your schedule.

You’ll take part in a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary program that may include: individualized medications, behavioral health support, biofeedback, physical therapy and education from pharmacists and dietitians. When appropriate, complementary therapies such as massage or acupuncture may be included. You’ll also have daily physician rounds, a posted schedule and a care plan that continues after discharge. 

Bring comfortable street clothes (you’ll be up and participating in activities), toiletries and items for downtime (phone, laptop, book). Pack for 3-7 days.

No. Medications are provided and managed in the hospital. If you take medicines or supplements for other conditions, tell your provider so they can be included in your plan. If you bring personal medications, they’ll be stored safely and returned at discharge.

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Endeavor Health Neurosciences Institute provides advanced care for brain, spine and neurological conditions. With world-class specialists and a commitment to innovation, we’re here to improve lives through compassionate, personalized neurological care.

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