Frequent Episodic Tension-type Headache Research Articles

Prevalence of cranial autonomic symptoms in frequent episodic tension-type headache: A post hoc analysis of the cross-sectional Migraine in Poland study.

Cranial autonomic symptoms (CASs) include lacrimation, conjunctival injection, rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, facial flushing or sweating, ptosis, and myosis. These symptoms may be associated with trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TACs) and migraine. The aim of the study was to assess whether CASs are also reported by patients with frequent episodic tension-type headache (eTTH). A cross-sectional online survey of a large Polish population was conducted between August 2021 and June 2022. The analysis assessed diagnostic criteria for migraine and eTTH, as well as the presence of allodynia, headache-related disability and symptoms of depression. The survey involved 3,225 respondents (age: 13-80 years, mean (M) = 38.9 years; 87.1% female). A total of 166 individuals met the diagnostic criteria for isolated frequent eTTH without migraine or probable migraine with or without aura. Allodynia was present during the majority of attacks in 40 (24.1%) eTTH subjects, while 86 (51.8%) eTTH respondents reported at least 1 CAS during their headache attacks. The presence of at least 1 CAS was more prevalent in migraine than in eTTH (p = 0.001). The respondents with at least 1 CAS during eTTH attacks reported a higher burden associated with pain (p = 0.024) and higher Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scores (p = 0.016). The prevalence of retrospectively reported CASs was high among individuals with eTTH, which may potentially contribute to diagnostic errors. Cranial autonomic symptoms in eTTH do not appear to be caused by severe pain or central sensitization.

Effects on temporomandibular disorder in the treatment of tension-type headache with acupuncture and therapeutic exercises. A secondary analysis from a randomized controlled trial

Objectives To examine the effects of acupuncture and therapeutic exercise alone and in combination on temporomandibular joint symptoms in tension-type headache and to evaluate the potential interaction of existing temporomandibular dysfunction on the success of headache treatment. Design Pre-planned secondary analysis of a randomized controlled, non-blinded trial. Setting Outpatient clinic of a German university hospital. Subjects Ninety-six Participants with frequent episodic or chronic tension-type headache were randomized to one of four treatment groups. Interventions Six weeks of acupuncture or therapeutic exercise either as monotherapies or in combination, or usual care. Follow-up at 3 and 6 months. Main measures Subjective temporomandibular dysfunction symptoms were measured using the Functional Questionnaire Masticatory Organ, and the influence of this sum score and objective initial dental examination on the efficacy of headache treatment interventions was analyzed. Results Temporomandibular dysfunction score improved in all intervention groups at 3-month follow-up (usual care: 0.05 [SD 1.435]; acupuncture: −5 [SD 1.436]; therapeutic exercise: −4 [SD 1.798]; combination: −3 [SD 1.504]; P = 0.03). After 6 months, only acupuncture (−6 [SD 1.736]) showed a significant improvement compared to the usual care group (P < 0.01). Subjective temporomandibular dysfunction symptoms had no overall influence on headache treatment. Conclusions Only acupuncture had long-lasting positive effects on the symptoms of temporomandibular dysfunction. Significant dental findings seem to inhibit the efficacy of acupuncture for tension-type headache.

Local anesthetic administration for frequent episodic tension-type headache in the elderly

Local anesthetic administration for frequent episodic tension-type headache in the elderly

Effects of acupuncture and medical training therapy on depression, anxiety, and quality of life in patients with frequent tension-type headache: A randomized controlled study

To compare the effects of acupuncture and medical training therapy in combination or individually with usual care on quality of life, depression, and anxiety in patients with tension-type headache. In this single-center, prospective, randomized, controlled, unblinded trial, 96 adults (38.7(+/-13.3) years of age; 75 females/20 males/one dropout) with frequent episodic or chronic tension-type headache were randomized to one of four treatment groups (n = 24). The treatment groups received six weeks of either acupuncture or medical training therapy as monotherapies or in combination (12 interventions each), or usual care. We assessed depressiveness (PHQ-9), anxiety (GAD-7), and health-related quality of life (SF-12) as secondary outcome parameters at baseline, six weeks, three months, and six months after initiation of treatment. Linear mixed models were calculated. Both, acupuncture (baseline to six-weeks change scores: mean: -2(standard deviation: 2.5 points), three months: -2.4(2.4), six-months -2.7(3.6)) and the combination of acupuncture and medical training therapy (-2.7(4.9), -2.2(4.0), -2.2(4.2)) (each within-group p < .05) significantly reduced depressiveness-scores (PHQ-9) to a greater extent than medical training therapy (-0.3(2.0), -0.5(1.6), -0.9(2.6)) or usual care alone (-0.8(2.9), 0.1(2.8), 0.2(3.6)). We found similar results with anxiety scores and the physical sum scores of the SF-12. No severe adverse events occurred. Acupuncture and the combination of acupuncture and medical training therapy elicit positive effects on depression, anxiety, quality of life, and symptom intensity in patients with episodic and chronic tension-type headache. Acupuncture appears to play a central role in mediating the therapeutic effects, underscoring the clinical relevance of this treatment. An additive benefit of the combination of both therapies does not appear to be relevant.Trial registration: Registered on 11 February 2019. German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00016723.

A Study on Prevalence of Trigger Factors and Associated Disorders in Tension-type Headache.

To study the prevalence of trigger factors and associated disorders in tension-type headache (TTH). Trigger factors have been widely studied in the context of migraine, but very few studies have investigated trigger factors in the context of TTH. A total of 400 patients above the age of 15 years fulfilling the third edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD 3) criteria of frequent episodic tension-type headache (FETTH) and chronic tension-type headache (CTTH) were enrolled and evaluated using a questionnaire. Details regarding demographics, headache characteristics, triggers, and associated symptoms were obtained. Associated psychiatric disorders were also recorded. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and statistical analysis was done using SPSS 22 trial version. Chi-square test and Fischer's exact test were used for statistical analysis and subgroup comparison. Out of 400 patients, 360 (90%) were found to have triggers. The mean headache intensity on visual analog scale (VAS) was 6.7. The most common trigger factor was emotional stress among both males and females. There was a statistically significant difference in the frequency of trigger factors between men and women for emotional stress, sunlight, sleep deprivation/insomnia, noise, weather change, studying, fried food, and hypersomnia. Psychiatric comorbidity was found in 29% of individuals, with sleep disorder being the most common. TTH has been an underrated diagnosis despite being an extremely common disorder. The trigger factors are less studied and their interactions are lesser known. The diagnostic criteria as per ICHD 3 make TTH a diagnosis of exclusion, rather than a positive diagnosis of inclusion. The trigger factors must be included in the diagnostic criteria in future versions of ICHD and associated psychiatric disorders should be sought for and treated simultaneously for better management and quality of life.

Relationship Between Frequency Of Tension Type Headache (TTH) In Epilepsy With Cognitive Function

Background : Epilepsy is a chronic disease that increases the risk of interictal headaches, one of which is tension type headache (TTH). TTH in epilepsy is triggered by recurrent neurogenic inflammation and central sensitization leading to pericranial tenderness. Recurrent neurogenic inflammation can affect cognitive function. The frequency of TTH in epilepsy is thought to be related to cognitive function score.Objective : Analyzing the relationship between the category of TTH frequency, onset of epilepsy, seizure frequency, age and education with cognitive score.Methods : Our study is an analytic observational study with a cross sectional design that took place from April to September 2021. The subjects of the study were epilepsy patients suffering from TTH at Dr. Kariadi Hospital, Semarang who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Patients’s data was obtained by filling out a questionnaire form. Assessment of the category of TTH frequency used ICHD-3 beta 2013 criteria. Assessment of cognitive function used the MoCA-Ina score. Data was analyze with Spearman correlation test, the results were significant if the p value &lt;0.05.Results : Forty one epilepsy patients consist of 14 infrequent episodic TTH, 14 frequent episodic TTH and 13 chronic TTH. There was significant relationship between the MoCA-Ina score and the TTH frequency category (r=0,362; p=0,02), and education level (r=0,493; p=0,001). There was a weak relationship between the MoCA-Ina score and the onset of epilepsy or seizure frequency, while there was no relationship with age.Conclusion : There was a moderate relationship between the TTH frequency in epilepsy with cognitive function. Keywords : epilepsy, tension type headache (TTH), Montreal Cognitive Assesment - Indonesian version (MoCA-Ina)

The role of perinatal factors in the development of primary headaches in children

In both children and adult patients, migraine and tension type headache (TTH) are the most common primary headaches, they affect about 15% and 21% of the world’s population, respectively. The role of genetic, psychosocial, hormonal factors is traditionally considered in the genesis of primary headaches. Obviously, neurobiological factors including early brain damage, genetic predisposition are involved in the formation of the pathophysiological basis of primary headaches, which interact with a complex of other factors, including external (psychosocial) factors, leading to changes in the pain mechanisms both at the peripheral and central levels. The literature review presents up-to-date data on the influence of pre- and perinatal factors on the risk of developing primary headaches. Intrauterine growth retardation, smoking and alcohol consumption by mothers during pregnancy are analyzed as risk factors for the development of migraine in children. The connection between the manifestations of increased neuroexcitability in children in the first 6 months with the development of primary headaches in subsequent periods of life is considered. The data of comparison of the results of the assessment of early anamnesis in clinical groups of patients with frequent episodic and chronic TTH are presented. The review examines the possible mechanisms of functional disorders of the nervous system that lead to the occurrence of primary headaches in the future. It is necessary to continue research on the role of perinatal factors in the genesis of primary headaches, to clarify the prognosis regarding the possible chronization of pain syndromes and develop differentiated approaches to the treatment tactics for these patients.

Primary Headache among Elderly People of Lahore

Background: Headache is a most common complaint seen among patients visiting neurologist and general physicians. The incidence of headache was reported between 12–50 percent among elderly people. Headache has ability to affect adversely the life quality of patients, limits community and domestic activities and hence, carries a significant disability burden. Objective: The objective of the study is to investigate the primary headache among elderly people of Lahore. Material and Methods: It was a prospective cross-sectional study conducted in Lahore General Hospital, Lahore. Patients aged 18 years and above referred to Neurology Outpatient Department of LGH for headache were included. The participants were divided into 2 groups: aged 18 to 64 years (younger patients) and aged &gt;65 years (elderly patients). Results: Among 90 younger respondents the mean age was 28.7+5.3 years while among 75 elderly respondents the mean age was 75.6+8.7 years. In younger and elderly groups, 8.9% &amp; 38.7% patients had mild headache, 47.8% &amp; 21 28.0% had moderate headache and 43.3% &amp; 25 33.3% patients had severe headache, respectively. In younger and elderly groups, 54.5% &amp; 10.7% patients had migraine without aura, 14.5% &amp; 6.6% had migraine with aura, 11.1% &amp; 4.0% had chronic migraine, 10.0% &amp; 20.0% patients had infrequent and frequent episodic tension-type headache, 3.3% &amp; 22.7% patients had chronic tension-type headache, 1.1% &amp; 2.7% patients had cluster headache, 1.1% &amp; 8.0% had trigeminal neuralgia, 0.0% &amp; 2.7% had glossopharyngeal neuralgia and 4.4% &amp; 22.6% patients had unspecified headache, respectively. Conclusion: Study concluded that among elderly patients, headache was started any time while mild headache, chronic tension-type headache, unspecified headache, throbbing/pulsating and &lt;15 headache days per month were more prevalent among elderly patients. Keywords: Primary headache, elderly, people, intensity

Sleep disorders in children and adolescents with tension-type headaches

Introduction. Tension-type headache (TTH) represents a widespread and recurrent disease in adults, children, and adolescents, adversely affecting the quality of life, learning achievements, and social functioning. In recent publications, a high incidence of comorbid disorders in patients with TTH is discussed, in particular sleep disorders. The aim of the study was to assess the nature and prevalence of sleep disorders in children and adolescents with frequent episodic TTH and chronic TTH. Materials and methods. One hundred fifty patients aged from 8 years to 16 years 11 months with TTH were examined. Of them, 91 (49 boys, 42 girls) had frequent episodic TTH, 59 (26 boys, 33 girls) had chronic TTH. There was used Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children including 26 questions for parents. Results. The present study confirms the high incidence of sleep disorders among TTH children and adolescents. TTH was diagnosed in 129 (86.0%) out of 150 patients. The most frequently diagnosed varying degrees of severity (clinically relevant and borderline, when assessing sleep disorders in children) were insomnia (disorders of initiating and maintaining sleep) - in 65.3% of patients (including 60.4% with frequent episodic TTH and 72.9% with chronic TTH), excessive somnolence - in 74.7% (67.1% and 86.4%), sleep breathing disorders - in 26.7% (23.1% and 32.2%), disorders of arousal/nightmares - in 46.0% (42.9% and 50.8%), sleep-wake transition disorders - in 65.3% (67.1% and 62.7%), sleep hyperhidrosis - in 31.3% (26.4% and 39.0%). Thus, all sleep disorders (except for sleep-wake transition disorders) were significantly more common among the patients with chronic TTH. At the same time, in the subgroup of patients with TTH and any sleep disorders, significantly more prominent indicators of the frequency, the intensity of TTH and its negative impact on the daily activity were revealed, compared to patients with TTH lacking sleep disorders. Conclusion. The results of the assessment of children and adolescents with TTH show that when planning preventive therapy for TTH and evaluating its results, not only main clinical characteristics of TTH should be taken into account, but also the manifestations and severity of comorbid disorders, including sleep disorders observed in most patients with TTH. The revealed prevalence of various sleep disorders in the subgroup of patients with chronic TTH confirms that sleep disorders and anxiety disorders refer to significant risk factors for the transition of TTH to a chronic form, and such patients need more active multimodal treatment.

Особенности болевого синдрома у пациентов с эпизодической и хронической головной болью напряжения

Актуальность. Головная боль напряжения (ГБН) — наиболее распространенный в популяции тип головной боли (ГБ). Некоторые исследования показали, что мышечное напряжение значительно возрастает с увеличением частоты ГБН, болезненность мышц может расти во время приступов ГБ. Высказано предположение, что непрерывный ноцицептивный вклад периферических миофасциальных структур может вызвать центральную сенсибилизации и, возможно, хронизацию ГБ. Целью исследования было изучение особенностей болевого синдрома у пациентов с эпизодической и хронической головной болью напряжения. Материалы и методы. Было обследовано 108 пациентов (55 мужчин, 53 женщины) с диагнозами «частая эпизодическая головная боль напряжения» (ЭГБН) (группа I, n = 64) и «хроническая головная боль напряжения» (ХГБН) (группа II, n = 44). Проводилось клинико­неврологическое обследование, пальпация перикраниальных и шейных мышц с обеих сторон с подсчетом числа болезненности перикраниальных мышц (ЧБПМ) и числа болезненности мышц шеи (ЧБМШ) для каждого пациента и их среднее значение в группе. Для оценки субъективной выраженности боли использовался метод визуальной аналоговой шкалы (ВАШ), для качественной характеристики боли — болевой опросник Мак­Гилла. Результаты. Пациенты обследованных групп по интенсивности ГБ по ВАШ существенно не отличались, показатель был в пределах умеренного с тенденцией к более выраженному в группе II. В обеих группах при пальпации перикраниальных и шейных мышц с обеих сторон болезненность при пальпации в основном была в пределах от слабой до умеренной, кроме трапециевидной и ременной мышц головы, где болезненность носила характер от умеренной до выраженной. В группе I по сравнению с группой II выявлено достоверное превышение показателя ЧБПМ и ЧБМШ слева, ЧБПМ справа и не отмечено различий между ЧБМШ групп I и II справа. У пациентов с ЭГБН выраженность мышечной болезненности снижалась с возрастом, были выше показатели, описывающие сенсорные и психоэмоциональные характеристики боли, выявлена положительная корреляционная связь между болезненностью перикраниальных мышц и интенсивностью и частотой ГБ в месяц. У пациентов с ХГБН обнаружены корреляционные связи между интенсивностью, средней продолжительностью ГБ в месяц и сенсорными и психоэмоциональными характеристиками боли, что может свидетельствовать о вовлечении центральных и периферических ноцицептивных механизмов в патогенез хронической ГБН. Выводы. Наличие мышечной болезненности, сенсорные и психоэмоциональные характеристики ГБ необходимо учитывать при планировании лечебных и реабилитационных стратегий, что будет препятствовать прогрессированию и хронизации ГБ и способствовать повышению качества жизни пациентов.

Nutrient Status in Patients with Frequent Episodic Tension-Type Headache: A Case-Control Study

ObjectiveTo investigate the relationship between frequent episodic tension-type headache (FE-TTH) and 25-hydroxyvitamin-D (25(OH)D), folate, vitamin B12, and magnesium. Design-MethodsA prospective case-control study involving adults with FETTH and age-sex matched healthy controls (HC) was performed. Individuals under the responsibility of the three provincial Health Centres of the prefecture of Trikala (Central Greece) were recruited during their regular check-up visits. The relationship between FETTH and serum levels of 25(OH)D, vitamin B12, folate, and magnesium was investigated (primary outcomes). Demographics, daily habits, somatometrics, psychometric and sleep quality measurements, laboratory indices, cardiovascular comorbidities and medications taken were also recorded and compared (secondary outcomes). Potential associations of the above-listed parameters with headache parameters (headache frequency, severity and analgesic consumption) were also examined (secondary outcomes). ResultsBetween September and December 2020, 30 patients with FETTH and 30 HC were successfully recruited. Demographics, comorbidities, regular medications, smoking habits, alcohol and coffee consumption, body mass index measurements, markers of systemic inflammation, folate and vitamin B12 levels were similar between the two groups (P>0.05). Lower serum 25(OH)D was both univariately (P<0.001) and multivariately [OR= 0.72, 95%CI=(0.55, 0.94) per 1ng/ml increase] associated with FETTH, while serum magnesium was found lower in FETTH only according to the univariate approach (P=0.036). Higher levels of depression (P=0.050) and anxiety (P=0.020), as well as poor quality of sleep (P=0.008), were univariately associated with FETTH. Only the effect of anxiety remained significant following the multivariate logistic regression [OR=7.90, 95%CI=(1.00, 62.47)]. Headache parameters were not associated with any one of the assessed variables. DiscussionLower serum 25(OH)D was related to the presence of FETTH. This finding could imply a potential role for vitamin D in the pathophysiology of TTH.

Evaluation of Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio, Platelet-to-Lymphocyte Ratio, and C-Reactive Protein in Tension-Type Headache Patients

Objectives A tension headache is the most common type of headache, and its causes are multifactorial. A relationship has been shown between migraine headaches and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and C-reactive protein (CRP). In this study, we investigated the NLR, PLR, and serum CRP levels in frequent episodic tension-type headache (FETTH) and chronic tension-type headache (CTTH) patients. Materials and Methods This retrospective study included 64 patients with FETTH, 80 patients with CTTH, and 60 healthy controls who were followed up in the neurology clinic. Hematological parameters were compared between the patient and control groups. Results In CTTH patients, platelets, NLR, PLR, and CRP values were statistically higher than in FETTH patients and patients in the control group. In FETTH patients, the PLR value was higher than in patients in the control group, but there was no statistically significant difference in NLR and CRP values between FETTH patients and patients in the control group. Also, there was no correlation between these values and age and gender. Conclusion Increase platelet count might have an effect on tension-type headache pathophysiology. Systemic inflammation parameters were shown to be significantly higher in CTTH patients. More comprehensive studies are needed to evaluate the effect of systemic inflammation on the chronicity of tension headaches.

Céphalées de tension

Tension type headache (TTH) has a higher prevalence than migraine; thus it is a frequent reason for consultation and it must not be denied. The diagnostic criteria of TTH defined by the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD) are non-specific, especially allowing to contrast with migraine, because tension type headache is a heterogeneous entity of multifactorial origin. So, explorations are sometimes necessary to exclude a secondary headache. A distinction is made between infrequent and frequent episodic TTH and chronic TTH. Depending on the type of TTH studies suggest different pathophysiological mechanisms. We retain an activation of peripheral myofascial structures and a central sensitization phenomenon. The management is based on the treatment of the pain with NSAIDs, sometimes associated with a prophylactic treatment for frequent and chronic TTH. Patients suffering from chronic TTH justify multidisciplinary management to prevent the risk of chronicization and analgesics abuse.

Tension-type headache.

Tension-type headache (TTH) is the most prevalent neurological disorder worldwide and is characterized by recurrent headaches of mild to moderate intensity, bilateral location, pressing or tightening quality, and no aggravation by routine physical activity. Diagnosis is based on headache history and the exclusion of alternative diagnoses, with clinical criteria provided by the International Classification of Headache Disorders, third edition. Although the biological underpinnings remain unresolved, it seems likely that peripheral mechanisms are responsible for the genesis of pain in TTH, whereas central sensitization may be involved in transformation from episodic to chronic TTH. Pharmacological therapy is the mainstay of clinical management and can be divided into acute and preventive treatments. Simple analgesics have evidence-based effectiveness and are widely regarded as first-line medications for the acute treatment of TTH. Preventive treatment should be considered in individuals with frequent episodic and chronic TTH, and if simple analgesics are ineffective, poorly tolerated or contraindicated. Recommended preventive treatments include amitriptyline, venlafaxine and mirtazapine, as well as some selected non-pharmacological therapies. Despite the widespread prevalence and associated disability of TTH, little progress has been made since the early 2000s owing to a lack of attention and resource allocation by scientists, funding bodies and the pharmaceutical industry.

Combination of acupuncture and medical training therapy on tension type headache: Results of a randomised controlled pilot study.

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to compare the effects of acupuncture and medical training therapy alone and in combination with those of usual care on the pain sensation of patients with frequent episodic and chronic tension-type headache.DesignThis was a prospective single-centre randomised controlled trial with four balanced treatment arms. The allocation was carried out by pre-generated randomisation lists in the ratio 1:1:1:1 with different permutation block sizes.SettingThe study was undertaken in the outpatient clinic of Rehabilitation Medicine of the Hannover Medical School.Participants and interventions: Ninety-six adult patients with tension-type headache were included and randomised into usual care (n = 24), acupuncture (n = 24), medical training (n = 24), and combination of acupuncture and medical training (n = 24). One patient was excluded from analysis because of withdrawing her/his consent, leaving 95 patients for intention to treat analysis. Each therapy arm consisted of 6 weeks of treatment with 12 interventions. Follow-up was at 3 and 6 months.Main outcome measuresPain intensity (average, maximum and minimum), frequency of headache, responder rate (50% frequency reduction), duration of headache and use of headache medication.Clinical results: The combination of acupuncture and medical training therapy significantly reduced mean pain intensity compared to usual care (mean = −38%, standard deviation = 25%, p = 0.012). Comparable reductions were observed for maximal pain intensity (−25%, standard deviation = 20%, 0.014) and for minimal pain intensity (−35%, standard deviation = 31%, 0.03). In contrast, neither acupuncture nor medical training therapy differed significantly from usual care. No between-group differences were found in headache frequency, mean duration of headache episodes, and pain medication intake. At 3 months, the majority of all patients showed a reduction of at least 50% in headache frequency. At 6 months, significantly higher responder rates were found in all intervention groups compared to usual care.ConclusionsIn contrast to monotherapy, only the combination of acupuncture and medical training therapy was significantly superior in reduction of pain intensity compared to usual care.Trial registration: Registered on 11 February 2019. German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00016723.

FREQUENT EPISODIC TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE IN STUDENTES OF PHYSIOTHERAPY COURSE

Introduction: Frequent episodic tension-type headache (FETTH), is described as frequent episodes of pain, located on both sides of the head, as a feeling of pressure or tightening, from mild to moderate intensity which may last from 30 minutes to seven days. The pain does not worsen with routine physical effort and may present photophobia or phonophobia. In this case, headache is one of the most common reasons for the complaint of children and adolescents, and it is a major problem among college students because it leads to the loss of study days and a decrease in academic performance. Objective: The aim of the present study was to conduct a survey on the prevalence of FETTH in students of Physiotherapy course of Centro Universitário do Triângulo (Unitri). Method: The research was done with the students registered in Physiotherapy course, in the second half of 2015, from the application of a questionnaire about the International Classification of Headache, according to the diagnostic criteria for FETTH. Result: Among the students, 18 (7.5%) presented FETTH, based on these classification criteria, but it was expected that 50% of the students expose symptoms indicative of TTHEF. Conclusion: It is concluded that FETTH is a type of headache that is not very prevalent in the academic context of the Physiotherapy course of the referred institution.

Эффективность динамической электронейростимуляции у подростков с частой эпизодической или хронической головной болью напряжения: результаты двойного слепого рандомизированного плацебо-контролируемого исследования

Эффективность динамической электронейростимуляции у подростков с частой эпизодической или хронической головной болью напряжения: результаты двойного слепого рандомизированного плацебо-контролируемого исследования

Evaluation of neurodynamic responses in women with frequent episodic tension type headache

BackgroundCurrent theories associated with the cause of tension type headache are mostly focused on muscle tissues. No study has investigated the presence of role of nerve tissues in this population. ObjectiveOur aim was to examine the responses to different mechanical provocation tests of the nerve tissues in women with tension type headache when compared to healthy women. DesignA case-control cross-sectional study. MethodsDifferences in range of motion and sensory responses (intensity and location) during the Passive Straight-Leg Raise Test (SLR), Long Sitting Slump test (LSS) and Seated Slump test (SLT) were assessed in 32 women with frequent episodic tension type headache (FETTH) and 32 age-matched healthy women. ResultsWomen with FETTH demonstrated bilateral and significantly reduced range of motion in all tests (P < 0.001) and also higher sensory responses in the LSS and SLT (both P < 0.001), but not in the SLR (all P > 0.422), compared to the healthy women. The location of sensory responses was also significantly different for the SLT (P < 0.05). ConclusionThe current study observed generalized lower mechanical pain thresholds to different provocation tests of the nerve tissues in women with FETTH supporting the presence of heightened nerve sensitivity to mechanical stimuli in this population. Future trials should investigate the efficacy of neurodynamic techniques in the clinical evolution of TTH.

Widespread Pressure Pain Sensitivity over Nerve Trunk Areas in Women with Frequent Episodic Tension-Type Headache as a Sign of Central Sensitization.

Previous studies reported the presence of widespread pressure pain sensitivity in patients with tension-type headache. However, most of the studies assessed pressure pain sensitivity over muscle tissue. Our aim was to investigate the difference in pressure pain sensitivity over musculoskeletal and nerve symptomatic and distant areas between women with frequent episodic tension-type headache (FETTH) and healthy subjects. Thirty-two women with FETTH and 32 matched healthy women participated. Pressure pain threshold (PPT) was bilaterally assessed over several nerve trunks (greater occipital, median, radial, ulnar, common peroneal, tibialis posterior) and musculoskeletal structures (temporalis muscle, C5/C6 joint, tibialis anterior) by an assessor blinded to the subject's condition. A four-week headache diary was used to collect the intensity, frequency, and duration of headache. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale was used to determine anxiety and depressive levels. Analysis of covariance found lower widespread and bilateral PPTs over all nerve trunks and musculoskeletal structures in women with FETTH pain (P < 0.001). No significant effect of anxiety and depressive levels on PPTs was found (all P > 0.222). PPT over the temporalis muscle was significantly negatively correlated with headache intensity. This study found widespread pressure pain hypersensitivity over both nerve trunks and musculoskeletal structures in women with FETTH, suggesting that the presence of central altered nociceptive processing is not just restricted to musculoskeletal areas, for example, muscles, but also pain evoked from directly provoking the nerve trunks by pressure. It is also possible that nerve tissue treatment could lead to a decrease in central sensitization and headache features.

Association of bruxism and anxiety symptoms among military firefighters with frequent episodic tension type headache and temporomandibular disorders.

To assess the presence of bruxism and anxiety among military firefighters with frequent episodic tension-type headache and painful temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). The sample consisted of 162 individuals aged 18 to 55 years divided into four groups. Headache was diagnosed in accordance with the International Classification of Headache Disorders-III. The Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders questionnaire was used to classify TMDs and awake bruxism; sleep bruxism was diagnosed in accordance with the International Classification of Sleep Disorders-3; and anxiety was classified using the Beck Anxiety Inventory. In statistical models, a significance level of 95% was used. The chi-square test was used to assess anxiety. Associations were found among frequent episodic tension-type headache, painful TMDs, awake bruxism and anxiety (p < 0.0005). Sleep bruxism was not a risk factor (p = 0.119) except when associated with awake bruxism (p = 0.011). Anxiety and awake bruxism were independent risk factors for developing frequent episodic tension-type headache associated with painful TMDs; only awake bruxism was a risk factor for frequent episodic tension-type headache with non-painful TMDs.