[Physical analgesic therapy in the elderly. Its interest in the management of headaches]

A FREQUENT AND DISABLING AFFECTION: Headaches in elderly patients are far more frequent that what is generally presumed; their prevalence is estimated of between 25 and 54% after the age of 70. They must be treated because of the potential impact on the patients' mental, functional and social status. NON-MEDICINAL ANALGESIC TREATMENTS: Various treatments have demonstrated their efficacy on different types of headache and are recommended in the international consensuses. This is notably the case with electrotherapy, cryotherapy, massage and biofeedback the correct use by physiotherapists of which leads to a decrease in the pain, duration and frequency of the attacks, and improves the quality of life of these patients. OTHER PHYSICAL TREATMENTS: Techniques such as acupuncture, relaxation, manual therapy or postural training are less documented but can be proposed. Most of them, alone or in supplement to medicinal treatment, are particularly adapted to elderly patients and limit the need for drugs, the side effects and interactions of which may have severe consequences in fragile patients and those suffering from multiple diseases.