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Primary Headache Attributed to External Compression or Traction to the Head: A Narrative Review
Ole Hensel1,2, Torsten Kraya1,3
1University Clinic and Outpatient Clinic for Neurology, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle/Saale, Germany.
Brain and Behavior
|December 31, 2024
Summary
Headaches from external compression or traction are common, particularly in women. Effective treatments are lacking, and these headaches can disrupt daily life.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Headache Medicine
Background:
- Headaches attributed to external physical stimuli are classified under ICHD-3 (Group 4.6).
- This group includes headaches from external compression and external traction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize current knowledge on headaches caused by external physical stimuli.
- To provide a comprehensive overview of compression and traction headaches.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review was performed.
- Medline (PubMed) and other academic sources were utilized for English-language articles.
Main Results:
- Prevalence varies, with higher incidence in women and those with predisposing factors (e.g., helmets, long hair).
- Compression headaches present as pressing sensations; traction headaches involve pulling sensations.
- Headaches are typically mild to moderate, lasting under an hour after stimulus cessation. Effective therapies are not established beyond trigger avoidance.
Conclusions:
- Headaches from external compression and traction are relatively common but underrepresented in literature.
- A lack of comprehensive reviews exists for these headache types.
- If triggers persist, these headaches can significantly interfere with daily activities and work.
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