The effects of aerobic exercise for persons with migraine and co-existing tension-type headache and neck pain. A randomized, controlled, clinical trial

Does physical activity and inflammation mediate the job stress-headache relationship? A sequential mediation analysis in the ELSA-Brasil study

BACKGROUND

Evidence indicates that physical activity reduces stress and promote a myriad of health-enhancing effects through anti-inflammatory mechanisms. However, it is unknown whether these mechanisms interfere in the association between psychosocial job stress and headache disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To test whether physical activity and its interplay with the systemic inflammation biomarkers high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and acute phase glycoproteins (GlycA) would mediate the associations between job stress and headache disorders.

METHODS

We cross-sectionally evaluated the baseline data from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil) regarding job stress (higher demand and lower control and support subscales), migraine and tension-type headache (ICHD-2 criteria), self-reported leisure-time physical activity, and plasma hs-CRP and GlycA levels. Conditional process analyses with a sequential mediation approach were employed to compute path coefficients and 95 % confidence intervals (CI) around the indirect effects of physical activity and biomarkers on the job stress-headache relationship. Separate models were adjusted for sex, age, and depression and anxiety. Further adjustments added BMI smoking status, and socioeconomic factors.

RESULTS

In total, 7,644 people were included in the study. The 1-year prevalence of migraine and tension-type headache were 13.1 % and 49.4 %, respectively. In models adjusted for sex, age, anxiety, and depression, the association between job stress (lower job control) and migraine was mediated by physical activity [effect = -0.039 (95 %CI: -0.074, -0.010)] but not hs-CRP or GlycA. TTH was associated with higher job control and lower job demand, which was mediated by the inverse associations between physical activity and GlycA [Job Control: effect = 0.0005 (95 %CI: 0.0001, 0.0010); Job Demand: effect = 0.0003 (95 %CI: 0.0001, 0.0007]. Only the mediating effect of physical activity in the job stress-migraine link remained after further adjustments including socioeconomic factors, BMI, smoking, and the exclusion of major chronic diseases.

CONCLUSION

In the ELSA-Brasil study, physical activity reversed the link between job stress and migraine independently of systemic inflammation, while the LTPA-mediated downregulation of GlycA was associated with lower job stress-related TTH.

Advances in Exercise in the Clinical Trials of Migraine: A Scoping Review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aimed to investigate emerging evidence regarding the effectiveness of exercise for migraines, focusing on the results of recent trials. Additionally, it explored the possibility of exercise as a treatment for migraines.

RECENT FINDINGS

Between 2020 and 2023, five, four, one, and two trials were conducted regarding the effect of aerobic exercise, anaerobic exercise, Tai Chi, and yoga, respectively, on migraine; all studies showed significant effects. Two trials on aerobic exercise showed that high-intensity exercise was similar to or slightly more effective than moderate-intensity exercise as a treatment for migraines. Three trials on anaerobic exercise reported its effectiveness in preventing migraines. Regarding efficacy, side effects, and health benefits, aerobic exercises and yoga are potentially beneficial strategies for the prevention of migraines. Further studies are needed to develop evidence-based exercise programs for the treatment of migraines.

Efficacy of various exercise interventions for migraine treatment: A systematic review and network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To compare various exercise modalities' efficacy on migraine frequency, intensity, duration, and disability.

BACKGROUND

Exercise has been shown to be an effective intervention to reduce migraine symptoms and disability; however, no clear evidence exists regarding the most effective exercise modalities for migraine treatment.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed in PubMed, PEDro, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Clinical trials that analyzed the efficacy of various exercise modalities in addressing the frequency, intensity, duration, and disability of patients with migraine were included. Eight network meta-analyses based on frequentist (F) and Bayesian (B) models were developed to estimate the direct and indirect evidence of various exercise modalities. Standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence (CI) and credible intervals (CrI) were calculated for each treatment effect based on Hedge's g and p scores to rank the modalities.

RESULTS

We included 28 studies with 1501 migraine participants. Yoga (F: SMD -1.30; 95% CI -2.09, -0.51; B: SMD -1.33; 95% CrI -2.21, -0.45), high-intensity aerobic exercise (F: SMD -1.30; 95% CI -2.21, -0.39; B: SMD -1.17; 95% CrI -2.20, -0.20) and moderate-intensity continuous aerobic exercise (F: SMD -1.01; 95% CI -1.63, -0.39; B: SMD -1.06; 95% CrI -1.74, -0.38) were significantly superior to pharmacological treatment alone for decreasing migraine frequency based on both models. Only yoga (F: SMD -1.40; 95% CI -2.41, -0.39; B: SMD -1.41; 95% CrI -2.54, -0.27) was significantly superior to pharmacological treatment alone for reducing migraine intensity. For diminishing migraine duration, high-intensity aerobic exercise (F: SMD -1.64; 95% CI -2.43, -0.85; B: SMD -1.56; 95% CrI -2.59, -0.63) and moderate-intensity continuous aerobic exercise (SMD -0.96; 95% CI -1.50, -0.41; B: SMD -1.00; 95% CrI -1.71, -0.31) were superior to pharmacological treatment alone.

CONCLUSION

Very low-quality evidence showed that yoga, high- and moderate-intensity aerobic exercises were the best interventions for reducing migraine frequency and intensity; high- and moderate-intensity aerobic exercises were best for decreasing migraine duration; and moderate-intensity aerobic exercise was best for diminishing disability.

Effects of Yi Jin Jing on juvenile cervical spondylopathy in China: A parallel, randomized, assessor-blinded clinical trial

Background

Cervical spondylopathy is a common musculo-articular disorder, multiple exercises are recommended. Chinese fitness exercises are prevalent and used to treat various diseases.

Aim

To explore the efficacy of Chinese fitness exercise Yi Jin Jing exercise in intervening the cervical spondylopathy in adolescents.

Patients and Methods

The study was conducted in 60 adolescent patients with cervical spondylopathy, with 30 patients in each group.

Methods

The study was conducted in 60 adolescent patients with cervical spondylopathy, with 30 patients in each group. The observation group was required to take Yi Jin Jing exercise, and the control group took the brisk walking exercise. The first week was the preparatory period for the patients, and then the participants were required to do exercises three times a week for at least 30 minutes in the later 3 weeks. Before and after treatment, Neck Disability Index (NDI) scores, pain visual analog scale (VAS) scores, and cervical curvature in both groups were observed, and the incidence of adverse events in both groups was recorded during the trial.

Results

The NDI and VAS scores in both groups statistically decreased after intervention and mildly increased at follow-up, while the reduction in scores of the Yi Jin Jing group was more significant. Cervical curvature in both groups improved on day 28 compared to day 0. There were no adverse reactions during the evaluation period.

Conclusion

The Chinese health-care qigong Yi Jin Jing exercise is more effective than brisk walking in improving the cervical range of motion and relieving pain in adolescents with cervical spondylopathy. Trial registration/Protocol registration: Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000030723).

Neck pain and headache: Pathophysiology, treatments and future directions

INTRODUCTION

Neck pain is a prevalent neurologic and musculoskeletal complaint in the general population and is often associated with primary headache disorders such as migraine and tension-type headache (TTH). A considerable proportion, ranging from 73% to 90%, of people with migraine or TTH also experience neck pain, and there is a positive correlation between headache frequency and neck pain. Furthermore, neck pain has been identified as a risk factor for migraine and TTH. Although the exact underlying mechanisms linking neck pain to migraine and TTH remain uncertain, pain sensitivity appears to play an important role. People with migraine or TTH exhibit lower pressure pain thresholds and higher total tenderness scores compared with healthy controls.

PURPOSE

This position paper aims to provide an overview of the current evidence on the relationship between neck pain and comorbid migraine or TTH. It will encompass the clinical presentation, epidemiology, pathophysiology, and management of neck pain in the context of migraine and TTH.

IMPLICATIONS

The relationship between neck pain and comorbid migraine or TTH is incompletely understood. In the absence of robust evidence, the management of neck pain in people with migraine or TTH relies mostly on expert opinion. A multidisciplinary approach is usually preferred, involving pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic strategies. Further research is necessary to fully dissect the linkage between neck pain and comorbid migraine or TTH. This includes the development of validated assessment tools, evaluation of treatment effectiveness, and exploration of genetic, imaging, and biochemical markers that might aid in diagnosis and treatment.

Physical Therapy in Tension-Type Headache: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

(1) Objective: The aim of this study is to synthesize the effects of physical therapy on pain, frequency, or duration management in the short, medium, and long term in adult patients diagnosed with Tension-type headache (TTH). (2) Background: Tension-type headache (TTH) is the most common headache with migraine and its pathophysiology and treatment has been discussed for years without reaching a consensus. (3) Methods: A systematic review was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020175020). The systematic search for clinical trials was performed in the databases PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PEDro, Scopus, SciELO and Dialnet. Articles were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, regarding the effectiveness of physical therapy interventions on adult patients with TTH published in the last 11 years with a score ≥ 6 in the PEDro Scale (Physiotherapy Evidence Database). (4) Results: In total, 120 articles were identified, of which 15 randomized controlled trials were finally included in order to determine the inclusion criteria. Changes in pain intensity, headache frequency or headache duration of individual studies were described (5) Conclusions: This systematic review shows that there is no standardized physical therapy protocol for the approach to tension headache, although all the techniques studied to date address in one way or another the cranio-cervical-mandibular region. The approach to the cranio-cervical-mandibular region reports significant effects in terms of decreasing the intensity of pain and frequency of headache episodes in the short and medium term. More long-term longitudinal studies are needed.

Pain sensitivity in relation to frequency of migraine and tension-type headache with or without coexistent neck pain: an exploratory secondary analysis of the population study

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate whether coexistent self-reported neck pain influences cephalic and extracephalic pain sensitivity in individuals with migraine and tension-type headache (TTH) in relation to diagnosis and headache frequency.

METHODS

A population of 496 individuals completed a headache interview based on ICHD criteria, providing data collected by self-administered questionnaires, assessments of pericranial total tenderness score (TTS) and pressure pain thresholds (PPT). Stimulus-response (SR) functions for pressure vs. pain were recorded. Presence of neck pain in the past year was assessed by the self-administered questionnaire. We categorized participants by primary headache type. We also categorized participants into 3 groups by headache frequency: chronic (≥15) or episodic (<15 headache days/month) headache and controls. TTS, PPTs and the area under the SR curve were compared between subgroups using Generalized Linear Models with pairwise comparisons controlling for age and sex.

RESULTS

Individuals with chronic followed by episodic headache had higher TTS than controls (overall p≤0.001). The difference between chronic and episodic headache subgroups was significant in the group with neck pain (p≤0.001) but not in the group without neck pain. In individuals with neck pain, mean TTS was higher in coexistent headache (migraine and TTH), 23.2 ± 10.7, and pure TTH, 17.8 ± 10.3, compared to pure migraine, 15.9 ± 10.9 and no headache 11.0 ± 8.3 (overall p<0.001). Temporal and finger PPTs did not statistically differ among the chronic headache, the episodic headache and controls in individuals with and without neck pain. Temporalis and trapezius SR-functions showed that tenderness was increased in individuals with chronic headache to higher degree than in those with episodic headache, and more so in those with neck pain.

CONCLUSIONS

Coexistent neck pain is associated with greater pericranial tenderness in individuals with chronic headache and to a lesser degree in those with episodic headache. Sensitization may be a substrate or consequence of neck pain and primary headache, but a longitudinal study would be needed for further clarification.

A Systematic Review of the Aerobic Exercise Program Variables for Patients with Non-Specific Neck Pain: Effectiveness and Clinical Applications

Studies have shown that aerobic exercise (AE) may improve symptoms related to non-specific neck pain (NNP); however, the variables of the exercise programs and the overall effectiveness of AE have not been evaluated in a systematic review. Therefore, this review aimed to describe and discuss the variables of the AE programs used in clinical trials for patients with NNP. Included studies were analyzed for the selected AE variables such as intensity, frequency, duration, delivery, supervision, and adherence. The PEDro scale was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies. From the literature search, six studies met the inclusion criteria and were evaluated. After reviewing all the included studies, it was found that a range of AE interventions were used such as cycling, brisk walking, aerobics, stationary bike, treadmill running, circuit training, and swimming. Further, the duration was between 30 and 45 min for each session, with or without progressive increases from week to week. The intervention periods ranged from 1 month to 6 months in duration. Most studies used AE three times per week. Furthermore, exercise intensity was measured with either subjective (BORG) or objective measures (heartrate reserve). Justification for the specified intensity and reporting of adverse events was reported only in two studies and differed between studies. Exercise interventions were poorly reported. This review showed that moderate-intensity AE undertaken three times per week, in patients with NNP, may be beneficial for pain and function; however, the development of reporting standards is essential for the successful replication of studies.

Time of Day and Chronotype-Dependent Synchrony Effects Exercise-Induced Reduction in Migraine Load: A Pilot Cross-Over Randomized Trial

Migraines are the most common cause of chronic pain. Effective, non-pharmacological strategies to reduce migraine load, like exercise, are needed, but it is unclear how exercise timing and chronotype modulate the effects. We sought to determine the effects of time-of-day of exercise, and synchrony with one's chronotype, on migraine load. We performed a pilot cross-over randomized trial where participants with chronic migraine completed two one-month exercise interventions, consisting of either morning exercise (before 09:00 a.m.) or evening exercise (after 7:00 p.m.) in a randomized repeated measures cross-over design (Clinical Trial #NCT04553445). Synchrony was determined by exercise time and chronotype (i.e., a morning type participant exercising in the morning is 'in-sync,' while an evening type participant exercising in the morning is 'out-of-sync'). Migraine burden, and anthropometric assessment occurred before and after each month of exercise. Data was analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA with significance accepted at p < 0.05. When comparing morning and evening exercise, there was no significant improvements in any migraine-related parameters. However, when comparing in-sync and out-of-sync exercise, we found that migraine burden was only improved following in-sync exercise, while no benefits were seen in out-of-sync exercise. Our data suggests that exercise timing has limited impact, but synchrony with chronotype may be essential to decrease migraine load in chronic migraineurs.

Efficacy and feasibility of a 12-week Tai Chi training for the prophylaxis of episodic migraine in Hong Kong Chinese women: A randomized controlled trial

Background

Tai Chi has been broadly applied as alternative treatment for many neurological and psychological disorders. Whereas no study using Tai Chi as prophylactic treatment for migraine. The purpose of this study was to preliminarily examine the efficacy and feasibility of a 12-week Tai Chi training on migraine attack prevention in a sample of Chinese women.

Methods

A two-arm randomized controlled trial was designed. Women aged 18 to 65 years and diagnosed with episodic migraine were randomized to either Tai Chi group (TC group) or the waiting list control group. A modified 33-short form Yang-style Tai Chi training with 1 h per day, 5 days per week for 12 weeks was implemented in the TC group, with a 12-week follow up period. The control group received a "delayed" Tai Chi training at the end of the trial. The primary outcome was the differences in attack frequency between 4 weeks before baseline and at the 9-12 weeks after randomization. The intensity and duration of headache were also measured. The feasibility was evaluated by the maintenance of Tai Chi practice and satisfactory level of the participants toward training.

Results

Eighty-two women were randomized, finally 40 in TC group and 33 in control group were involved in the analysis. On average, women in TC group had 3.0 times (95% CI: -4.0 to -2.0, P < 0.01) and 3.6 days (95% CI: -4.7 to -2.5, P < 0.01) reduction of migraine attack per month. Compared with the control group, the differences were statistically significant (-3.7 attacks/month, 95% CI: -5.4 to -1.9; and -3.0 migraine days/month, 95% CI: -4.5 to -1.5; both P < 0.001). The intensity and duration of headache had 0.6 (95% CI: -1.2 to -0.0, P < 0.05) units and 1.2 (IQR: -5.0 to 1.1, P < 0.05) hours reduction in TC group, respectively. Most of the participants (69.2%-97.4%) were satisfied with the training. At the end of 24 weeks, on average, the participants maintained 1.5 times of practice per week and 20 min for each practice.

Conclusion

The 12-week Tai Chi training significantly decreased the frequency of migraine attack. It was acceptable and practicable among female migraineurs.

Clinical trial registration

www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT03015753.

Efficacy of the Digital Therapeutic sinCephalea in the prophylaxis of migraine in patients with episodic migraine: study protocol for a digital, randomized, open-label, standard treatment controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The German government implemented the Digital Healthcare Act in order to bring Digital Therapeutics into standard medical care. This is one of the first regulatory pathways to reimbursement for Digital Therapeutics (DTx). The Digital Therapeutic sinCephalea is intended to act as a prophylactic treatment of migraine by reducing the migraine days. For this, sinCephalea determines personalized nutritional recommendations using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data and enables the patients to follow a personalized low-glycemic nutrition. Migraine is a headache disorder with the highest socioeconomic burden. Emerging evidence shows that CGM-based personalized nutritional recommendations are of prophylactic use in episodic migraine. However, prospective data are yet missing to demonstrate clinical effectiveness. This study is designed to fill this gap.

METHODS

Patients between 18 and 65 years of age with proven migraine and a minimal disease severity of 3 migraine days per month are included. After a 4-week baseline phase as a pre-study, patients are randomized to the DTx intervention or a waiting-list control. The objective of the study is to show differences between the intervention and control groups regarding the change of migraine symptoms and of effects of migraine on daily life.

DISCUSSION

To our knowledge, this is the first systematic clinical trial with a fully digital program to enable patients with migraine to follow a personalized low-glycemic nutrition in order to reduce their number of migraine days and the migraine-induced impact on daily life. Designing a clinical study using a digital intervention includes some obstacles, which are addressed in this study approach.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

German Registry of Clinical Studies (Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien) DRKS-ID DRKS00024657. Registered on March 8, 2021.

Effects on neuromodulation, acupuncture, and aerobic exercises on migraine and tension-type headache outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Headache disorders are common diseases that cause a social burden. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of various non-pharmacological treatments to address or prevent acute headaches, including neuromodulation, acupuncture, and aerobic exercises in patients with episodic migraine and tension-type headache (TTH).

METHODS

We performed a systematic search of the electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, WANFANG MEDICINE ONLINE, and Chinese Medical Journal database using Stata/SE 14.0 to obtain weighted mean differences (WMDs). The outcomes included monthly headache days, headache intensity, headache duration, days per month of acute medication use, and the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey.

RESULTS

Of 872 identified articles, 27 were included in the meta-analysis. Neuromodulation was associated with reduced headache days (WMD: -1.274, 95% CI [-1.914, -0.634], P < .001), duration (WMD: -2.2, 95% CI [-3.32, -0.107], P < .001) and medication consumption (WMD: -1.808, 95% CI [-2.546, -1.071], P < .001) in cases of migraine. Acupuncture was associated with the alleviation of headache days (WMD: -0.677, 95% CI [-0.932, -0.422], P < .001) and intensity (WMD: -0.893, 95% CI [-1.573, -0.212], P = .01) in cases of migraine and acute medication use (WMD: -3.29, 95% CI [-4.86, -1.72], P < .001) in cases of TTH. Aerobic exercise was associated with reduced headache duration (WMD: -5.1, 95% CI [-8.97, -1.22], P = .01) in cases of TTH. The risk of bias for included articles was moderate.

CONCLUSIONS

There is low- and moderate-quality evidence that neuromodulation, acupuncture, and aerobic exercises are associated with attenuated headache symptoms in patients with episodic migraine or TTH. However, high-quality studies are needed to draw more detailed conclusions.

Physical Activity Level, Depression, Anxiety, and Self-Perceived Health in Spanish Adults with Migraine: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Of all neurological disorders, migraine is the second most prevalent in the world and the most disabling, affecting approximately 15% of the general population. It is characterized by recurrent headaches, along with other symptoms and comorbidities such as depression and anxiety, compromising the sufferer's perception of health. Physical activity is a preventive treatment for migraine and its comorbidities. The aim is to analyze the relationship between migraine and physical activity levels (PAL) in the adult Spanish population, as well as PAL and depression, anxiety, and self-perceived health (SPH) in people with migraine.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted including 17,137 participants, 1972 with migraine, using data from the Spanish National Health Survey. Non-parametric statistical tests were performed: z-test for independent proportions (to analyze intergroup differences) and chi-square test (to analyze dependence between categorical variables).

RESULTS

Migraine was related to PAL (p < 0.001). Inactive people had a higher prevalence of migraine than active and very active people (p < 0.05). PAL was related to depression, anxiety, SPH, and analgesic use in people with migraine (p < 0.001). Inactive people had a higher prevalence of depression, anxiety, analgesic use, and negative SPH than active and very active people (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing PA in the population could reduce the prevalence of migraine. In people with migraine, inactivity could worsen SPH and increase depressive and anxious symptoms.

What is the efficacy of aerobic exercise versus strength training in the treatment of migraine? A systematic review and network meta-analysis of clinical trials

Background

Multiple clinical trials with different exercise protocols have demonstrated efficacy in the management of migraine. However, there is no head-to-head comparison of efficacy between the different exercise interventions.

Methods

A systematic review and network meta-analysis was performed involving all clinical trials which determined the efficacy of exercise interventions in reducing the frequency of monthly migraine. Medical journal search engines included Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus spanning all previous years up to July 30, 2022. Both aerobic and strength/resistance training protocols were included. The mean difference (MD, 95% confidence interval) in monthly migraine frequency from baseline to end-of-intervention between the active and control arms was used as an outcome measure. Efficacy evidence from direct and indirect comparisons was combined by conducting a random effects model network meta-analysis. The efficacy of the three exercise protocols was compared, i.e., moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, high-intensity aerobic exercise, and strength/resistance training. Studies that compared the efficacy of migraine medications (topiramate, amitriptyline) to exercise were included. Additionally, the risk of bias in all included studies was assessed by using the Cochrane Risk of Bias version 2 (RoB2).

Results

There were 21 published clinical trials that involved a total of 1195 migraine patients with a mean age of 35 years and a female-to-male ratio of 6.7. There were 27 pairwise comparisons and 8 indirect comparisons. The rank of the interventions was as follows: strength training (MD = -3.55 [− 6.15, − 0.95]), high-intensity aerobic exercise (-3.13 [-5.28, -0.97]), moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (-2.18 [-3.25, -1.11]), topiramate (-0.98 [-4.16, 2.20]), placebo, amitriptyline (3.82 [− 1.03, 8.68]). The RoB2 assessment showed that 85% of the included studies demonstrated low risk of bias, while 15% indicated high risk of bias for intention-to-treat analysis. Sources of high risk of bias include randomization process and handling of missing outcome data.

Conclusion

Strength training exercise regimens demonstrated the highest efficacy in reducing migraine burden, followed by high-intensity aerobic exercise.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s10194-022-01503-y.

Relationship between Self-Efficacy and Headache Impact, Anxiety, and Physical Activity Levels in Patients with Chronic Tension-Type Headache: An Observational Study

Background

Chronic tension-type headache is the primary headache with the highest prevalence. The present study is aimed at analyzing the associations between patient self-efficacy and headache impact with pain characteristics, kinesiophobia, anxiety sensitivity, and physical activity levels in subjects with chronic tension-type headache.

Materials and Methods

An observational descriptive study was carried out. A total sample of 42 participants was recruited at university environment with diagnosis of tension-type headache. Headache characteristics (frequency, intensity, and duration), physical activity levels, pain related-self-efficacy, kinesiophobia, anxiety sensitivity, and headache impact were measured.

Results

The HIT-6 (61.05 ± 6.38) score showed significant moderate positive correlations with the ASI-3 score (17.64 ± 16.22; r = 0.47) and moderate negative correlations with the self-efficacy in the domains of pain management (31.9 ± 10.28; r = −0.43) and coping with symptoms (53.81 ± 14.19; r = −0.47). ASI-3 score had a negative large correlation with self-efficacy in the domains of pain management (r = −0.59), physical function (53.36 ± 7.99; r = −0.55), and coping with symptoms (r = −0.68). Physical activity levels showed positive moderate correlations with the self-efficacy in the domain of physical function (r = 0.41). Linear regression models determined that the self-efficacy and anxiety sensitivity with showed a significant relationship with the HIT-6 score (R² = 0.262; p = 0.008) and with the ASI-3 score (R² = 0.565; p < 0.001). In addition, no correlations were found between pain intensity, duration or frecuency with psychosocial factors, or headache impact.

Conclusions

The present study showed that patients with chronic tension-type headache had a great negative impact on daily tasks and physical activity levels, which were associated with higher anxiety levels and lower self-efficacy.

A Digital Therapeutic Allowing a Personalized Low-Glycemic Nutrition for the Prophylaxis of Migraine: Real World Data from Two Prospective Studies

Migraine is a headache disorder associated with a high socioeconomic burden. The digital therapeutic sinCephalea provides an individualized low-glycemic diet based on continuous glucose measurement and is intended to provide a non-pharmacological migraine prophylaxis. We performed two prospective studies with migraine patients who used sinCephalea over a period of 16 weeks. The patients used a headache diary and recorded their migraine-related daily life impairments using the assessment tools HIT-6 and MIDAS for a pre versus post comparison. In addition, continuous glucose data of patients were compared to healthy controls. In both studies, patients reported a reduction of headache and migraine days as well as reductions in HIT-6 and MIDAS scores. More specifically, migraine days decreased by 2.40 days (95% CI [−3.37; −1.42]), HIT-6 improved by 3.17 points (95% CI [−4.63; −1.70]) and MIDAS by 13.45 points (95% CI [−22.01; −4.89]). Glucose data suggest that migraine patients have slightly increased mean glucose values compared to healthy controls, but drop into a glucose range that is below one’s individual standard range before a migraine attack. In conclusion, sinCephalea is a non-pharmacological, digital migraine prophylaxis that induces a therapeutic effect within the range of pharmacological interventions.

Artificial intelligence analysis to explore synchronize exercise, cobalamin, and magnesium as new actors to therapeutic of migraine symptoms: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Migraine is recognized as a complex neurological disorder that has imposed a social burden. We assessed the signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms based on the in silico analysis and predicted drug candidates by the biomedicine approach. Moreover, we evaluated high-intensity interval training and vitamin B12 + magnesium on women's migraine attacks and inflammatory status.

METHODS

This study computed differential gene expression in migraine syndrome and the dimension network parameters visualized by software. Moreover, we proposed the functional mechanism and binding energy of essential micronutrients on macromolecules based on drug discovery. In this clinical trial, 60 cases were randomized to four groups, including applied high-intensity interval training (HIIT), cases consumed supplementation vitamin B12 and magnesium (Supp), cases applied high-intensity interval training, and consumed supplementation (HIIT + Supp), and migraine cases for 2 months. Serum levels of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) were measured at baseline and at the end of the study. In addition, migraine disability assessment score (MIDAS), frequency, intensity, and duration were recorded before and during interventions.

RESULTS

In silico study revealed the association between inflammation signaling pathways and pathogenesis of migraine attacks as a remarkable pathomechanism in this disorder. Furthermore, serum concentrations of CGRP were significantly declined in the HIIT + Supp compared with other groups. In addition, MIDAS, frequency, intensity, and duration were reduced in the HIIT + Supp group compared with the other groups.

CONCLUSION

We found that the synergistic effects of cobalamin and magnesium followed by regular exercise could silence the inflammation signaling pathway, and a combination of HIIT + Supp could ameliorate migraine pain.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials; IRCT code: IRCT20170510033909N12. Approval Data: 2021/06/02.

Physical Activity is Associated with Less Analgesic Use in Women Reporting Headache-A Cross-Sectional Study of the German Migraine and Headache Society (DMKG)

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this analysis is to determine whether regular physical activity is associated with less analgesic use in men and women suffering from headache disorders based on population-based cross-sectional data.

METHODS

We used data from a random general population sample in Germany that comprised 2477 participants aged ≥ 14 years. A standardized questionnaire addressing headache and headache treatment was filled in during the face-to-face survey.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine percent of the participants reported headache. Of these, 37.5% of men and 33.6% of women were physically active. Of the participants with headache, 43.3% reported taking analgesics on < 2 days a month, 40.7% on 2-5 days a month, 10.1% on 6-10 days a month, and 5.9% on > 10 days a month. Frequent headache, severe impact of headache on daily life, and depressive symptoms were associated with higher analgesic use in both men and women. For women, physical inactivity was associated with the frequency of analgesic use adjusted for sociodemographic and headache-related variables. For men, results did not suggest any association between physical inactivity and frequency of analgesic use.

CONCLUSIONS

There are both sex-unspecific and sex-specific factors associated with analgesic use among men and women with headache. In women with increased analgesic use, promoting physical activity may reduce analgesic use. For men, education about the therapeutic effects of physical activity for headaches is an important resource.

Clinical Efficacy of Epidural Injections of Local Anesthetic Alone or Combined with Steroid for Neck Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Aims

To compare the effectiveness of cervical epidural injections of local anesthetic with vs. without a steroid.

Methods

Three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane library) were used to search and assess all clinical randomized controlled trials regarding the clinical efficacy of epidural injections from January 01, 2009, to October 31, 2020. Cochrane review criteria and the Interventional Pain Management Techniques-Quality Appraisal of Reliability and Risk of Bias Assessment instrument were used to evaluate the methodologic quality of the included studies. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed according to best evidence synthesis principles and by single-arm meta-analysis, respectively.

Results

Based on the search criteria, 4 RCTs were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed in the single-arm meta-analysis. Treatment with lidocaine alone or with the steroid resulted in decreases of 4.46 and 4.29 points, respectively, in pain scores and of 15.8 and 14.46 points, respectively, in functional scores at 6 months. Similar trends were observed at the 1-year follow-up: pain scores decreased by 4.27 and 4.14 points, while functional scores decreased by 15.94 and 14.44 points in patients with neck pain who received lidocaine without or with the steroid, respectively. In the 3 studies that reported 2-year follow-up data, patients with neck pain treated with lidocaine or lidocaine + steroid showed 4.2- and 4.14-point decreases, in pain score and 15.92- and 14.89-point decreases, respectively, in functional scores.

Conclusions

The studies showed level I (strong) evidence for short- and long-term improvements in pain relief and functionality with cervical epidural injections of local anesthetic alone or with a steroid in the management of neck pain.

Exercise and Manual Therapy for the Treatment of Primary Headache: An Umbrella and Mapping Review

OBJECTIVE

The main aim of this study was to assess through systematic review the efficacy of exercise and manual therapy (MT) interventions in individuals with primary headache.

METHODS

In this umbrella review, 2 authors reviewed systematic reviews by searching the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, MEDLINE, PEDro, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Systematic reviews that evaluated the effectiveness of MT. Exercise-based interventions, or both in patients with primary headaches were included. Methodological quality was analyzed using the ROBIS scale, and the strength of evidence was established according to the Grading Criteria of the Physical Activity Guidelines Advisory Committee.

RESULTS

Thirty-one systematic reviews containing 79 trials and involving 9103 patients were included. The 7 exercise-related systematic reviews reported beneficial effects on primary headache based on unclear to moderate evidence. Of the 23 MT-related systematic reviews, 11 reported enhanced effectiveness compared with usual care; however, overall heterogeneity and risk of bias were high. Systematic reviews that evaluated the effectiveness of MT, exercise-based interventions, or both in patients with primary headaches were included.

CONCLUSION

Results show that exercise could be an effective therapy for the treatment of primary headache, with moderate to limited quality of evidence regarding the positive effects in terms of pain intensity and frequency and duration of headache. Moderate quality of evidence was found regarding the ability of MT to reduce pain intensity in patients with tension-type headaches, but quality of evidence was limited in terms of frequency of headache and disability and pain reduction in patients with migraine.

IMPACT

Exercise could be an effective treatment in patients with primary headache. Manual therapy showed limited evidence to reduce pain intensity in patients with tension-type headache. It is not possible to establish a preferential exercise protocol or MT program, so psychosocial and behavioral variables need to be considered in future studies.

The use of virtual complementary and integrative therapies by neurology outpatients: An exploratory analysis of two cross-sectional studies assessing the use of technology as treatment in an academic neurology department in New York City

Background

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, about half of patients from populations that sought care in neurology tried complementary and integrative therapies (CITs). With the increased utilization of telehealth services, we sought to determine whether patients also increased their use of virtual CITs.

Methods

We examined datasets from two separate cross-sectional surveys that included cohorts of patients with neurological disorders. One was a dataset from a study that examined patient and provider experiences with teleneurology visits; the other was a study that assessed patients with a history of COVID-19 infection who presented for neurologic evaluation. We assessed and reported the use of virtual (and non-virtual) CITs using descriptive statistics, and determined whether there were clinical characteristics that predicted the use of CITs using logistic regression analyses.

Findings

Patients who postponed medical treatment for non-COVID-19-related problems during the pandemic were more likely to seek CITs. Virtual exercise, virtual psychotherapy, and relaxation/meditation smartphone applications were the most frequent types of virtual CITs chosen by patients. In both studies, age was a key demographic factor associated with mobile/virtual CIT usage.

Interpretations

Our investigation demonstrates that virtual CIT-related technologies were utilized in the treatment of neurologic conditions during the pandemic, particularly by those patients who deferred non-COVID-related care.

Regular Aerobic Exercise Attenuates Pain and Anxiety in Mice by Restoring Serotonin-modulated Synaptic Plasticity in the ACC

PURPOSE

Clinical studies found that regular aerobic exercise has analgesic and anti-anxiety effects; however, the underlying neural mechanisms remain unclear. Multiple studies have suggested that regular aerobic exercise may exert brain-protective effects by promoting the release of serotonin, which may be a pain modulator. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is a key brain area for pain information processing, receiving dense serotonergic innervation. As a result, we hypothesized that exercise may increase the release of serotonin in the ACC, thus improving pain and anxiety behaviours.

METHODS

Integrative methods were used, including behavioural, electrophysiological, pharmacological, biochemical, and genetic approaches, to explore the effects of regular aerobic exercise and the underlying neural mechanisms.

RESULTS

Regular aerobic exercise in the form of voluntary wheel running for 30 minutes daily for 15 days showed significant effectiveness in relieving pain and concomitant anxiety in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced chronic inflammation pain models. c-Fos staining and multielectrode array recordings revealed alterations in neuronal activities and synaptic plasticity in the ACC. Moreover, systemic pharmacological treatment with 4-chloro-DL-phenylalanine (PCPA) to deplete endogenous serotonin and local delivery of serotonin to the ACC revealed that exercise-related serotonin release in the ACC bidirectionally modulates pain sensitization and anxiety behaviours by modulating synaptic plasticity in the ACC. Furthermore, we found that 5-HT1A and 5-HT7 receptors mediated the serotonin modulation effects under conditions of regular aerobic exercise through local infusion of a selective antagonist and shRNA in the ACC.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results reveal that regular aerobic exercise can increase serotonin release and modulate synaptic plasticity in the ACC, ultimately improving pain and concomitant anxiety behaviours through the functions of the 5-HT1A and 5-HT7 receptors.

Effects of Different Therapeutic Exercise Modalities on Migraine or Tension-Type Headache: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis with a Replicability Analysis

The primary aim of this study was to review the effect of exercise in comparison with a non-active treatment on pain intensity, frequency of headache episodes, headache duration, quality of life, medication use, and psychological symptoms, in patients with migraine or tension-type headache (TTH). A systematic search was conducted in various electronic databases to identify all relevant studies: Medline (PubMed), PEDro, EBSCO and Google Scholar. Clinical trials assessing the effects of exercise interventions in patients with primary headaches were selected. Methodological quality was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool and PEDro scale and qualitative analysis was based on classifying the results into levels of evidence according to the GRADE. 19 studies (2776 participants; 85% female) were included. The meta-analysis showed statistically significant differences in pain intensity for aerobic training in patients with migraine (SMD = -0.65; 95% CI = -1.07 to -0.22, very low certainty evidence) and for strength training in patients with TTH (SMD = -0.84; 95% CI = -1.68 to- -0.01, very low certainty evidence). Statistically significant differences were also found in the medication use (SMD = -0.51; 95% CI = -0.85 to -0.17, low certainty evidence). Low transparency, replicability and high risk of bias were found. Aerobic training has a small to moderate clinical effect on pain intensity and medication use on migraine patients, with very low to low certainty of evidence. Strength training showed a moderate clinical effect with very low quality of evidence in patients with TTH. Exercise could be considered as clinically relevant for the management of patients with primary headaches, but the presence of low certainty of evidence and low transparency and replicability limited its clinical application. PERSPECTIVE: This article presents current evidence about exercise interventions in patients with primary headaches, including migraine and tension-type headache. Existing findings are reviewed, and relevant data are provided on the effectiveness of each exercise modality, as well as its certainty of evidence and clinical applicability.

Physical inactivity and headache disorders: Cross-sectional analysis in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)

BACKGROUND

Physical inactivity has been linked to headache disorders but estimates based on the current World Health Organization physical activity guidelines are unknown.

OBJECTIVE

To test the associations between headache disorders and physical inactivity in the ELSA-Brasil cohort.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional analysis, linear (continuous variables) and logistic regression models (categorical variables) tested the associations of physical activity levels in the leisure time, commuting time, and combined leisure time physical activity + commuting time physical activity domains with headache disorders, adjusted for the effects of sociodemographic data, cardiovascular risk variables, psychiatric disorders, and migraine prophylaxis medication.

RESULTS

Of 15,105 participants, 14,847 (54.4% women) provided data on physical activity levels and headache. Higher physical activity levels (continuous values) in the leisure time physical activity domain associated with lower migraine and tension-type headache occurrence and lower headache attack frequency, while in the commuting time physical activity domain it associated with more frequent headache attacks. Compared to people who met World Health Organization physical activity levels in the leisure time physical activity or combining leisure time physical activity + commuting time physical activity domains (i.e. ≥150 min.wk^-1 of moderate and/or ≥75 min.wk^-1 of vigorous physical activity), physical inactivity associated with higher migraine occurrence, while somewhat active (i.e. not meeting World Health Organization recommendations) associated with higher migraine and tension-type headache occurrence. Physical inactivity in the commuting time physical activity domain associated with higher tension-type headache in men and lower migraine in women. Physical inactivity within vigorous leisure time physical activity intensity, but not moderate leisure time physical activity, associated with higher migraine, mostly in women. Finally, physical inactivity associated with higher headache attack frequency regardless headache subtype.

CONCLUSION

Physical inactivity and unmet World Health Organization physical activity levels associate with primary headaches, with heterogeneous associations regarding headache subtype, sex, physical activity domain/intensity, and headache frequency in the ELSA-Brasil study.

Effectiveness of Exercise and Manual Therapy as Treatment for Patients with Migraine, Tension-Type Headache or Cervicogenic Headache: An Umbrella and Mapping Review with Meta-Meta-Analysis

The aim of the study was to perform a mapping and umbrella review with meta-meta-analysis (MMA) to synthesise and critically evaluate the effectiveness of manual therapy (MT) and aerobic exercise (AE) in relation to pain intensity, frequency, disability and quality of life in patients with migraines, tension-type headaches (TTH) and cervicogenic headaches (CGH). A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, PEDro, Scielo and Google Scholar up to December 2020. A total of 18 articles met the inclusion criteria, and only 8 were included in the quantitative analysis. The MMA showed results in favour of the interventions in terms of pain intensity and quality of life in migraine, TTH and CCH. Data were also in favour of the intervention in terms of pain frequency in migraine and in terms of disability in TTH. However, there were no significant effects on pain frequency in TTH and CGH. The results showed moderate evidence to suggest that AE reduces pain intensity in patients with migraine. In addition, the evidence in favour of MT or a mixed intervention (including therapeutic exercise) was also moderate in terms of reducing pain intensity in patients with TTH.

Recent advancements in tension-type headache: a narrative review

INTRODUCTION

Tension-type headache (TTH) is the most common primary headache disorder with a prevalence of up to 78% in general population and huge expenses in terms of health service. Despite its high incidence and impact on life's quality the knowledge on the pathophysiology and efficacious treatment of TTH was still limited.

AREAS COVERED

In recent years, a series of studies highlighted the heterogeneous nature of this pathology that seems to be determined by a complex interaction between genetic, environmental, and neuromuscular factors, which result in nociceptive system activation. In this setting, alongside the simple analgesic therapies used during the acute attack, a series of therapeutic options based on newly acquired experiences have taken hold.

EXPERT REVIEW

Not having a single substrate or a typical site of pathophysiology, TTH must be analyzed in a global and multidisciplinary way. Herein, we perform a narrative review of the most recent advancement stimulating the concept of this disease as the tip of the iceberg of a more complex individual malaise secondary to different alterations. Strategies based solely on symptomatic drugs should therefore be avoided by experienced personnel and treatment should aim at taking charge of the patient considering the processes behind this complex pathology.

Genetics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, management, and prevention of migraine

Migraine is a neurological ailment that is characterized by severe throbbing unilateral headache and associated with nausea, photophobia, phonophobia and vomiting. A full and clear mechanism of the pathogenesis of migraine, though studied extensively, has not been established yet. The current available information indicates an intracranial network activation that culminates in the sensitization of the trigemino-vascular system, release of inflammatory markers, and initiation of meningeal-like inflammatory reaction that is sensed as headache. Genetic factors might play a significant role in deciding an individual's susceptibility to migraine. Twin studies have revealed that a single gene polymorphism can lead to migraine in individuals with a monogenic migraine disorder. In this review, we describe recent advancements in the genetics, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, management, and prevention of migraine. We also discuss the potential roles of genetic and abnormal factors, including some of the metabolic triggering factors that result in migraine attacks. This review will help to accumulate current knowledge about migraine and understanding of its pathophysiology, and provides up-to-date prevention strategies.

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.

Exercise in Treatment of Migraine Including Chronic Migraine

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

With this review, we aimed to investigate the effect of exercise on migraine and explored the possibility of exercise as a treatment option for migraine.

RECENT FINDINGS

A close association of physical activity and exercise with migraine has been reported in clinical and population-based studies. Recent randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of aerobic exercise as a migraine-preventive treatment have revealed a notable improvement in migraine symptoms. Data on the effect of anaerobic exercise and exercise for flexibility, coordination, and relaxation on migraine are currently insufficient to make any recommendations. Possible pathways for the attenuation of migraine by exercise include the endogenous opioid and cannabinoid systems, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, inflammation, and behavioral/psychological factors. Regarding efficacy, side effects, and health benefits, aerobic exercise is a potentially beneficial strategy in the preventive treatment of migraine. Further studies are needed to delineate an evidence-based exercise program for migraine treatment.

Lifestyle Modifications to Help Prevent Headache at a Developmental Age

Headache is the world's seventh most significant cause of disability-adjusted-life in people aged between 10 and 14 years. Therapeutic management is based on pharmacological approaches and lifestyle recommendations. Many studies show associations between each migraine-promoting lifestyle, behavioral triggers, frequency, and intensity of headaches. Nevertheless, the overall aspects of this topic lack any definitive evidence. Educational programs advise that pediatric patients who suffer from migraines follow a correct lifestyle and that this is of the utmost importance in childhood, as it will improve quality of life and assist adult patients in avoiding headache chronicity, increasing general well-being. These data are important due to the scarcity of scientific evidence on drug therapy for prophylaxis during the developmental age. The "lifestyle recommendations" described in the literature include a perfect balance between regular sleep and meal, adequate hydration, limited consumption of caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol, regular physical activity to avoid being overweight as well as any other elements causing stress. The ketogenic diet is a possible new therapeutic strategy for the control of headache in adults, however, the possible role of dietary factors requires more specific studies among children and adolescents. Educational programs advise that the improvement of lifestyle as a central element in the management of pediatric headache will be of particular importance in the future to improve the quality of life of these patients and reduce the severity of cephalalgic episodes and increase their well-being in adulthood. The present review highlights how changes in different aspects of daily life may determine significant improvements in the management of headaches in people of developmental age.

The intersection of COVID-19, school, and headaches: Problems and solutions

OBJECTIVE

To equip clinicians with recommendations specific to concerns related to the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which impact the physical, emotional, and social health of youth with headache disorders.

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 has affected societies on a global scale including children and youth with chronic headache disorders. Many concerns are predicted to arise in the 2020-2021 school year, whether classes are conducted in-person or virtually.

METHODS

Clinical impressions were combined with a review of the literature, although limited due to the recent nature of this issue.

RESULTS

We describe recommendations to support caregivers and youth as they face changes expected with the return to school in the fall of 2020.

CONCLUSION

Although there are significant concerns for caregivers and youth with migraine given the context of changes related to the pandemic, there are many recommendations that can help minimize exacerbations of the physical, emotional, and social health of youth with chronic migraine.

The effects of two different intensities of aerobic training protocols on pain and serum neuro-biomarkers in women migraineurs: a randomized controlled trail

OBJECTIVES

We have a weak understanding of how aerobic training may influence migraine, and the optimal parameters for exercise regimens as migraine therapy are not clear. The objectives of this study were to assess, first, effects of two different intensities of aerobic exercise on migraine headache indices; second, serum neuro-biomarker in women migraineurs.

METHODS

A total of 45 non-athlete female migraine patients were selected by a neurologist and randomly divided into three groups: control (CON), moderate-intensity aerobic training (MOD T), and high-intensity aerobic training (HIGH T). Before and after the training protocol, body composition factors, migraine pain indices, VO₂max, and serum Adenylate-Cyclase Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) and Substance P (SP) were measured. Exercise training protocol includes two different intensities of aerobic exercise: Moderate (13-15 Borg Scale, 60-80% HRmax) and High (15-17 Borg Scale, 65-95% HRmax).

RESULTS

Moderate-intensity aerobic training (MOD T) reduced headache intensity, frequency, and duration in women with migraine (p < 0.001, for all). Also, high-intensity aerobic training (HIGH T) reduced headache intensity, frequency, and duration (p < 0.001, for all). However, for headache intensity and duration, MOD T was effective rather than HIGH T (p < 0.001; p ≤ 0.05, respectively). In addition, neither MOD T nor HIGH T could not alter PACAP and SP contents (p = 0.712; p = 0.249, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrated that either MOD T or HIGH T could modify migraine pain indices but neither MOD T nor HIGH T could not alter the PACAP and SP contents in women with migraine.

Predicting the outcome of the greater occipital nerve block - an observational study on migraine patients with and without musculoskeletal cervical impairment

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The importance of neck pain and the trigeminocervical complex in migraine is of high pathophysiological interest since a block to the greater occipital nerve is more effective for some primary headaches than others. This observational study hypothesised that the response to manual palpation of the upper cervical spine predicts the efficacy of the greater occipital nerve-block.

METHODS

We divided patients, scheduled by a neurologist to receive a greater occipital nerve-block to reduce their migraine symptoms, into three groups: Patients with no pain response to manual palpation of the neck, patients with local pain, and those with referred pain to the head. Primary outcome was the percentage change in headache frequency. Additionally, items from the quantitative sensory testing protocol were included.

RESULTS

Eighty-seven chronic migraine patients were recruited consecutively from a specialised outpatient clinic and 71 were included for analyses and stratified into the three groups: No pain (n = 11), local pain (n = 28), and referred pain to the head (n = 32). Overall, patients experienced a reduction of 1.9 headache days per month (SD 3.4, p < 0,0001). The groups differed significantly in the percentage change of headache frequency (p = 0.041) with the "no pain" group showing the largest reduction. The pressure-pain-threshold over C2 and headache on the day of the intervention influenced the outcome significantly (R² 0,27, p = 0,00078). No serious adverse events occurred. Sixty-five percent of the patients had headaches during the examination. The groups did not differ regarding the distribution of patients with neck-pain in absence of migraine at baseline (p = 0.618).

CONCLUSION

Patients that were less sensitive to palpation in the cervical region and headache-free on the day of the intervention improved more after the greater occipital nerve-block.Registration: Registered a priori at the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00015995).

Diagnosis and treatment of migraine: Russian experts' recommendations

Migraine is one of the most common types of headache, which can lead to a significant decrease in quality of life. Researchers identify migraine with aura, migraine without aura, and chronic migraine that substantially reduces the ability of patients to work and is frequently concurrent with mental disorders and drug-induced headache. The complications of migraine include status migrainosus, persistent aura without infarction, migrainous infarction (stroke), and a migraine aura-induced seizure. The diagnosis of migraine is based on complaints, past medical history, objective examination data, and the diagnostic criteria as laid down in the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3 rd edition. Add-on trials are recommended only in the presence of red flags, such as the symptoms warning about the secondary nature of headache. Migraine treatment is aimed at reducing the frequency and intensity of attacks and the amount of analgesics taken. It includes three main approaches: behavioral therapy, seizure relief therapy, and preventive therapy. Behavioral therapy focuses on lifestyle modification. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, simple and combined analgesics, triptans, and antiemetic drugs for severe nausea or vomiting are recommended for seizure relief. Preventive therapy which includes antidepressants, anticonvulsants, beta-blockers, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, botulinum toxin type A-hemagglutinin complex and monoclonal antibodies to calcitonin gene-related peptide or its receptors, is indicated for frequent or severe migraine attacks and for chronic migraine. Pharmacotherapy is recommended to be combined with non-drug methods that involves cognitive behavioral therapy; progressive muscle relaxation; mindfulness; biofeedback; post-isometric relaxation; acupuncture; therapeutic exercises; greater occipital nerve block; non-invasive high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation; external stimulation of first trigeminal branch; and electrical stimulation of the occipital nerves (neurostimulation).

Physical exercise enhances vulnerability to migraine headache associated with CGRP up-expression in trigeminal nucleus caudalis of stressed rats

OBJECTIVES

There is conflicting evidence on the effect of physical exercise on migraine development. Present study investigated the impact of treadmill exercise on migraine - associated symptoms and changes in calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) expression in rats with and without maternal deprivation stress (MD).

METHODS

Two days after birth, the male Wistar pups were randomly divided into four groups (n = 6) as follows: intact, exercise, MD, and MD plus exercise. The animals in the MD groups were separated from their dams 4 h per day for 2 weeks. At 8 weeks of age, the rats were exercised on a motor-driven treadmill for 4 weeks. Then, nitroglycerin (NTG) (5 mg/kg/IP) was used to induce migraine and pain-related symptoms were recorded for 90 min. NTG-related thermal hyperalgesia was measured by tail flick and hot plate methods. Finally, immunofluorescence staining of CGRP in trigeminal subnucleus caudalis (Vc) was performed.

RESULTS

NTG - produced a significant headache symptoms and thermal hypersensitivity, which were aggravated following physical exercise in stressed or unstressed groups. Besides, NTG administration increased CGRP expression in the Vc of rats. Such effect was overpowered by treadmill running only in rats exposed to MD stress.

CONCLUSION

These findings highlight the worsening effects of treadmill exercise for migraine in rats with and without MD stress. However, inflammatory response can further exacerbate in stressed rats.

Neck treatment compared to aerobic exercise in migraine: A preference-based clinical trial

Objectives:

The main objective of this study was to compare the effectiveness of aerobic exercise with physiotherapy. A second objective was to evaluate whether patients with pain referred to the head during manual palpation will benefit more from physiotherapy than patients with local or no pain.

Methods:

A total of 103 patients with migraine received physiotherapy ( n = 79) or supervised aerobic exercise ( n = 24) according to their preference as an add-on treatment. Both groups had the same contact time with a specialized physiotherapist. The primary outcome measure was headache frequency during the 4 weeks after the intervention. Eighty-seven patients were analyzed at the primary end point ( n = 69 in the physiotherapy group; n = 18 in the aerobic exercise group). A follow-up assessment was conducted 3 months after the final intervention.

Results:

During the initial assessment of the upper cervical spine, 17 patients reported no pain, 45 local pain, and 25 referred pain to the head. Patients in the physiotherapy group had a mean reduction of 1.8 days (standard deviation (SD) 6.07), while patients in the aerobic exercise group had a mean reduction of 1.2 days (SD 4.27) at the primary end point. This difference was not statistically significant ( p = 0.8). The largest improvement was noted in the group that showed referred pain to the head and received physiotherapy (2.13 days (SD 7.82)). Only patients in the physiotherapy group reported a subjectively perceived general improvement.

Conclusions:

Patients had a strong preference for physiotherapy. Both groups showed small reductions in headache frequency. Effects were superior after physiotherapy but not statistically significant. Patients with pain referred to the head responded best to a physiotherapy intervention.

The Role of Positive Health Behaviors in the Relationship Between Early Life Stress and Migraine

BACKGROUND

The use of diet and physical activity in alleviating the burden of migraine is unclear, therefore, more scientific study on the role of positive health behaviors in migraine management is needed.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the potential moderating influence of positive health behaviors on the early life stress-migraine relationship in a sample of the Canadian adult population.

METHODS

This study used data from the 2011-2012 Canadian Community Health Survey - Annual Component, a National cross-sectional survey. Adults ≥18 years of age residing in British Columbia were surveyed about stressors experienced as children/teenagers (eg, parental divorce and substance abuse exposure). Migraine was self-report of health-professional diagnosis. Positive health behaviors were measured using an index of transportation and leisure time physical activity, and self-reported frequency of vegetable and fruit consumption. Population survey weights were employed throughout and analytic models were adjusted for known confounders (n_unweighted  = 11,910).

RESULTS

The weighted prevalence of migraine was 9.7% (95% CI: 9.1%, 10.2%). Odds of migraine increased as number of stressors increased: 1 early life stressor (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.39), and ≥ 2 early life stressors (OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.29, 1.76), compared to no stress. There was evidence of effect modification by physical activity (χ² (4) = 16.02, P < .001). The association between 1 early life stressor and migraine was lower for those who were physically active (moderately active: OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 0.90, 1.61; active: OR = 0.82, 95% CI: 0.61, 1.11). This difference was not apparent for those who experienced 2 or more early life stressors (moderately active: OR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.28, 2.17; active: OR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.21, 1.99). Across all levels of early life stress, physically active respondents had lower odds of migraine than moderately active respondents. There was no effect modification by vegetable, fruit, and total fruit/vegetable consumption.

CONCLUSIONS

Stressors experienced early in life are associated with migraine, and physical activity may ameliorate this relationship, particularly for those with exposure to a minimal level of early life stress. A higher dose of physical activity may yield greater benefit than a less intensive dose (ie, moderate activity level). However, the cross-sectional nature of this study precludes us from inferring causality, and future investigation requires prospectively collected data.

Exploring Natural Clusters of Chronic Migraine Phenotypes: A Cross-Sectional Clinical Study

Heterogeneity in chronic migraine (CM) presents significant challenge for diagnosis, management, and clinical trials. To explore naturally occurring clusters of CM, we utilized data reduction methods on migraine-related clinical dataset. Hierarchical agglomerative clustering and principal component analyses (PCA) were conducted to identify natural clusters in 100 CM patients using 14 migraine-related clinical variables. Three major clusters were identified. Cluster I (29 patients) - the severely impacted patient featured highest levels of depression and migraine-related disability. Cluster II (28 patients) - the minimally impacted patient exhibited highest levels of self-efficacy and exercise. Cluster III (43 patients) - the moderately impacted patient showed features ranging between Cluster I and II. The first 5 principal components (PC) of the PCA explained 65% of variability. The first PC (eigenvalue 4.2) showed one major pattern of clinical features positively loaded by migraine-related disability, depression, poor sleep quality, somatic symptoms, post-traumatic stress disorder, being overweight and negatively loaded by pain self-efficacy and exercise levels. CM patients can be classified into three naturally-occurring clusters. Patients with high self-efficacy and exercise levels had lower migraine-related disability, depression, sleep quality, and somatic symptoms. These results may ultimately inform different management strategies.

Physical therapy and migraine: musculoskeletal and balance dysfunctions and their relevance for clinical practice

BACKGROUND

Migraine is a primary headache with high levels of associated disability that can be related to a variety of symptoms and comorbidities. The role of physical therapy in the management of migraine is largely unknown. Therefore, the aim of this review is to highlight and critically discuss the current literature and evidence for physical therapy interventions in individuals with migraines.

METHODS

A narrative review of the literature was performed.

RESULTS

Physical therapists assessing and treating patients with migraine should focus on two primary aspects: (1) musculoskeletal dysfunctions, and (2) vestibular symptoms/postural control impairment. Signs and symptoms of musculoskeletal and/or vestibular dysfunctions are prevalent among individuals with migraines and different disability levels can be observed depending on the presence of aura or increment of the migraine attacks.

CONCLUSION

A proper physical examination and interview of the patients will lead to a tailored treatment plan. The primary aim regarding musculoskeletal dysfunctions is to reduce pain and sensitization, and physical therapy interventions may include a combination of manual therapy, exercise therapy, and education. The aim regarding postural control impairment is to optimize function and reduce vestibular symptoms, and interventions should include balance exercises and vestibular rehabilitation. However, consistent evidence of benefits is still lacking due to the lack of and therefore need for tailored and pragmatic clinical trials with high methodological quality.

Visceral Origin: An Underestimated Source of Neck Pain. A Systematic Scoping Review

The diagnosis of neck pain is challenging. Many visceral disorders are known to cause it, and clinical practice guidelines recommend to rule them out during neck pain diagnosis. However, the absence of suspicion of any cause impedes one from establishing that specific aetiology as the final diagnosis. To investigate the degree of consideration given to visceral aetiology, a systematic search of trials about neck pain was carried out to evaluate their selection criteria. The search yielded 309 eligible articles, which were screened by two independent reviewers. The PEDro scale score was used to assess the methodological quality of the studies. The following information was retrieved: number of authors affiliated to a clinical or non-clinical institution, number of citations in the Web of Science, study aims, characteristics of participants, and eligibility criteria. The top 15 most cited trials, and the 15 most recent studies about treatment efficacy in neck pain, published in first quartile journals of the Journal Citation Reports, were selected. Females represented 67.5% of participants. A single study was of poor methodological quality (4/10). Based on the eligibility criteria of the articles that were systematically reviewed, it would appear that visceral aetiology was not considered in eighty percent of the trials on neck pain, showing a low level of suspicion both in research and clinical settings.

Cardiovascular fitness and risk of migraine: a large, prospective population-based study of Swedish young adult men

OBJECTIVES

To examine the longitudinal relationship between cardiovascular fitness in young adult men and future risk of migraine and to estimate eventual differential effects among categories of body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure.

DESIGN

National, prospective, population-based cohort study.

SETTING

Sweden 1968-2014.

PARTICIPANTS

18-year-old Swedish men (n=1 819 828) who underwent mandatory military conscription examinations during the years 1968-2005.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOMES

The primary outcome was the first dispensation of prescribed migraine-specific medication, identified using the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register. The secondary outcome was documented migraine diagnosis from the Swedish National Hospital Register.

RESULTS

During follow-up, 22 533 men filled a prescription for migraine-specific medication. After confounding adjustment, compared with high cardiovascular fitness, low and medium fitness increased the risk of migraine-specific medication (risk ratio (RR)_low: 1.29, 95% CI 1.24 to 1.35; population attributable fraction: 3.6%, 95% CI 1.7% to 5.3% and RR_medium: 1.15, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.19; population attributable fraction: 8.0%, 95% CI 4.0% to 11.7%). To assess potential effect measure modification, stratified analyses of these association by levels of BMI and blood pressure showed that lower fitness levels increased risk of migraine across all groups except among underweight men or men with high diastolic blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

Young men with a lower cardiovascular fitness had a higher long-term risk of developing pharmacological prescription-requiring migraine. This study contributes with information regarding risk factors for migraine in men, an understudied population in migraine research.

The effect of aerobic exercise on the number of migraine days, duration and pain intensity in migraine: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

In patients with frequent migraine, prophylactic treatments are used. Patients often request non-pharmacological alternatives. One treatment option can be aerobic exercise. The value of aerobic exercise as prophylactic treatment however needs to be determined.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to investigate the result of aerobic exercise on the number of migraine days, duration and pain intensity in patients with migraine. After screening three online databases, PubMed, Cochrane library and Web of Science, using predefined in- and exclusion criteria, six studies were retained. Pooling of data was performed when possible.

RESULTS

Significant reductions in the number of migraine days after aerobic exercise treatment were found with a mean reduction of 0.6 ± 0.3 migraine days/month. Other outcomes were too variable to pool due to heterogeneity of outcome measurements. Unpooled data revealed small to moderate reductions in attack duration (20-27%) and pain intensity (20-54%) after aerobic exercise intervention. Various exercise intensities are applied.

CONCLUSION

There is moderate quality evidence that in patients with migraine aerobic exercise therapy can decrease the number of migraine days. No conclusion for pain intensity or duration of attacks can be drawn. Effect sizes are small due to a lack of uniformity. For future studies, we recommend standardized outcome measures and sufficiently intense training programs.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

CRD42018091178 .