Assessment and Management of Tension-Type Headaches

Tension-type headache (TTH) is a bilateral, nonthrobbing, band-like headache considered the most common headache disorder and prevalent neurologic disorder worldwide. Despite the widespread prevalence of TTH, the pathophysiology remains elusive, with current research indicating a complex mix of physiologic, psychological, and environmental systems that contribute to the initiation and perpetuation of TTH. The mainstay treatment for acute episodes includes simple analgesics, while more chronic and frequent episodes require preventative therapy with lifestyle and behavioral modification, psychobehavioral treatments, integrative health, and pharmacologic therapy such as tricyclic agents or antidepressants.