Shaping and generalization procedures in the EMG-biofeedback treatment of tension headaches

The effectiveness of frontalis electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback in the treatment of chronic tension headaches using shaping and generalization procedures, was examined. Following remission, that took place early in the experiment (as a consequence of recording incidence), nine subjects from a sample of 40 patients suffering from chronic tension headaches were randomly assigned to one of two treatment conditions: five to a 'frontalis EMG-biofeedback' group, and four to a control condition designated 'high expectations of cure'. Frontalis EMG headache frequency and duration, personality variables, psychosomatic complaints and medication intake were recorded. Following treatment, results indicated that biofeedback was significantly superior to the control condition in reducing headache. Subjects in the biofeedback group achieved high degree of control over EMG responses under different stress conditions. Progress was maintained at 10 month follow-up.