An Evidence-based Practice Project: Using Cryotherapy for Headaches

Abstract

This evidence-based practice project addresses the use of cryotherapy as an intervention in reducing the symptom of pain in patients with headaches. A literature review was conducted using PubMed, ProQuest Nursing and Allied Health, Cochrane Reviews, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL). The articles identified were evaluated to determine evidence level and quality. Seven articles were determined to be eligible to answer the following PICO question: In patients with headaches (P), how does cryotherapy (I) compare to standard care (C) with pain (O)? A total of seven articles were used in the review. Level I, II, IV, and V articles were identified ranging from high quality (A) to good quality (B). Each article focused on using cryotherapy in treating pain during headaches, either in conjunction with other analgesia or on its own. Each article identified an overall positive effect on pain. There is compelling evidence to treat a headache with cryotherapy. The recommendation includes using an ice or cool gel pack in conjunction with the standard treatment of headache to relieve headache pain.