SUMMARY
Research in the Neuroimaging of Headache Disorders Laboratory of Todd J. Schwedt, M.D., uses advanced MRI techniques to study migraine, post-traumatic headache and concussion. Dr. Schwedt applies structural measures such as regional morphometrics, diffusion tensor imaging and T2* to examine these conditions. He also uses functional measures, including event-related functional MRI and resting state functional connectivity.
The goal of Dr. Schwedt's research is to identify imaging biomarkers that can assist in classifying, treating and prognosticating outcomes for people with migraine, post-traumatic headache and concussion.
Focus areas
- Pain processing in migraine. Dr. Schwedt uses functional MRI to investigate the atypical processing of pain that is present in people with migraine and post-traumatic headache. Techniques include quantitative sensory testing and functional MRI during painful thermal stimulation. This allows for the identification of brain areas where atypical pain processing occurs among those with migraine or post-traumatic headache.
- Brain functional and structural connectivity. Dr. Schwedt uses diffusion tensor imaging and resting state functional connectivity analyses to determine the structural and functional organization of the brain in the presence of disease.
- Modeling data for classification and prognosis. With the help of research collaborators with expertise in advanced modeling, Dr. Schwedt develops multivariate models that assist with the classification and prognosis of migraine and post-traumatic headache. These models are developed using a combination of data types, such as:
- Patient and disease characteristics.
- Longitudinal clinical symptoms.
- Blood-based biomarkers.
- Imaging findings.
- Clinical trials. Another major focus area for Dr. Schwedt is initiating, developing and conducting clinical trials. He leads single-center and multicenter clinical trials investigating treatments for migraine and post-traumatic headache.
Significance to patient care
Dr. Schwedt and his team in the Neuroimaging of Headache Disorders Laboratory study how the brain senses and responds to pain. Their research shows how different parts of the brain work together in people with migraine, post-traumatic headache and concussion. The team also develops tools that look at many factors to help group patients and predict their outcomes.
Professional highlights
- American Headache Society:
- Member, Executive committee, 2018-present.
- President, 2024-2026.
- Mayo Clinic:
- Director, Clinicians Engaged in Research Faculty Development Program, 2023-present.
- Associate chair, Neurology Research, 2017-present.
- Research Career Impetus Award, 2026-2030.
- Investigator of the Year, 2021.