THE EFFECT OF EMG-BIOFEEDBACK IN THE TREATMENT OF TENSION-TYPE HEADACHE: A PILOT STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: aim, primary thesis. A tension-type headache (TTH) is the most common type
of idiopathic headache. EMG-biofeedback is a non-invasive rehabilitation technique in which the measurements
of muscle tension are monitored in order to improve muscle control and reduce health disorders. The aim of
the study was to assess the potential effectiveness of EMG-biofeedback therapy on the course of tension-type
headache in young adults.
Materials and methods. The uncontrolled study included 21 patients (11 men, 10 women) aged 20-27 years
(mean = 23.05 ± 1.93 years) with episodic tension-type headaches diagnosed based on ICHD-II. Each of the
patients underwent 15 EMG-biofeedback training sessions lasting 22 minutes aimed at reducing trapezius muscle
tension. The measured parameters were muscle tension registered before and after the biofeedback training
sessions. Additionally, pain intensity and frequency along with subjective dorsal muscle tension on a 5-point scale
were assessed.
Results.After the series of 15 EMG-biofeedback training sessions, headache intensity decreased in 52% of the
patients. These results correlated with reduced muscle tension (p < 0.012) and decreased subjective assessment
of dorsal muscle tension (p < 0.05). Headache frequency decreased in 66% of the patients, but these results were
not statistically significant (p=0.055).
Conclusions. This study confirms the effectiveness EMG-biofeedback training as an additional therapy technique
in the treatment of tension-type headache in young adults.