Physical-functional alterations in women with chronic migraine

Migraine is a prevalent neurological disorder that significantly impacts quality of life. Despite its considerable burden, the underlying pathophysiology remains poorly understood.

To identify physical-functional alterations in women with chronic migraine.

Twenty-four women (39.2 ± 7.7 years) with chronic migraine were assessed using tools selected for this study. We analyzed pain intensity and perception (Visual Analog Scale - VAS and McGill Pain Questionnaire), motion sickness (Dizziness Handicap Inventory - DHI), panic and agoraphobia (Panic and Agoraphobia Scale - PAS), postural stability (modified Clinical Test of Sensory Integration and Balance - mCTSIB and Dynamic Gait Index - DGI), and quality of life (WHOQOL-BREF).

The prevalence of pain is widely reported, with a mean intensity score of 6.7 ± 1.7, and when assessed using the McGill scale, the total pain index was 60.6 ± 14.7. The DHI showed a score with a median of 34 points, while the PAS scored with a median of 4 points. In the WHOQOL, the Physical and Psychological domains had the worst scores (53.3 ± 17.8 and 58.9 ± 18.7, respectively). The mean DGI score was 21.5 ± 2.3, where 12.5 % of the participants presented a deficit, whose score indicates gait impairment and risk of falls. In the mCTSIB, the mean score was 5.3 ± 1.1. When correlating the uni or multidimensional aspects of pain with quality of life, the pain scores by VAS are significantly associated with the score of total quality of life.

Chronic migraine can alter physical-functional conditions in women.