Changes in Clinical Parameters in Patients with Tension-type Headache Following Massage Therapy: A Pilot Study

摘要: Investigations into complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches to address stress, depression, anxiety of those experiencing chronic pain are rare. The objective this pilot study was assess the value a structured massage therapy program, with focus on myofascial trigger points, psychological measures associated tension-type headache. Participants were enrolled in an open-label trial using baseline control four 3-week phases: baseline, (two periods) follow-up phase. Eighteen subjects episodic or headache evaluated at intervals State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Perceived Stress Scale. Daily Inventory administered over 7-day periods during final week massage. Twice weekly, 45-minute sessions commenced following phase continued for 6 weeks. A significant improvement all detected timeframe study. Post hoc evaluation indicated depression trait weeks massage, but not 3 reduction number events deemed stressful as well their respective impact detected. This provides evidence affective distress population, suggesting need more rigorously controlled studies TTH.