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Relaxation therapy for tension headache in the elderly: a prospective study
J G Arena1, N E Hightower, G C Chong
1Biofeedback and Psychophysiological Disorders Clinic, Veterans Administration Medical Center, Augusta, Georgia 30910.
Psychology and Aging
|March 1, 1988
Summary
Progressive muscle relaxation therapy significantly reduced headache activity in elderly individuals. This prospective study suggests relaxation therapy is an effective treatment for tension headaches in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Psychology
Background:
- Tension-type headaches are common in the elderly population.
- Previous studies on headache treatment in the elderly are mostly retrospective.
- The efficacy of relaxation therapy for tension headaches in older adults remains under-investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of an 8-week progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) therapy regimen.
- To assess the impact of PMR on headache activity in elderly individuals with tension-type headaches.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 10 elderly subjects diagnosed with tension-type headaches.
- Subjects underwent an 8-week progressive muscle relaxation therapy program.
- Headache activity was assessed at baseline and 3 months post-treatment.
Main Results:
- Seven out of 10 subjects experienced a 50% or greater decrease in overall headache activity.
- Significant improvements were observed in the number of headache-free days.
- Reductions in peak headache activity and medication index were also statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- Progressive muscle relaxation therapy appears to be an effective intervention for reducing headache activity in elderly patients with tension-type headaches.
- This prospective study provides evidence supporting the use of PMR in geriatric headache management.
- Relaxation therapy offers a promising, non-pharmacological treatment option for older adults suffering from chronic headaches.