Research: RIABUS and KOLOSOVA

Listed in Issue 53

Abstract

RIABUS and KOLOSOVA, Eastern Europe, analysed the efficiency of electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback (BFB) in the treatment of tension type headache (TTH).

Background

Methodology

50 patients with episodic and chronic TTH were treated by a standard course of BFB therapy (10 sessions). Results were compared with data in a comparison group (12 patients receiving lerivon therapy) and in controls (15 healthy individuals). Outcome measures include severity index, psychological data, amplitude of EMG of frontal, temporal, trapezius, and orbicularis oris muscles.

Results

The best results were obtained in the episodic TTH group 87%. In the chronic TTH group the efficiency was lower: full effect: 26%; partial: 35%; no effect: 39%. The 6-month period following treatment showed that BFB effect was more protracted than that of the pharmacological therapy.

Conclusion

References

Riabus MV and Kolosova OA. Treatment of various forms of tense headaches by biofeedback. Zhurnal Nevrologii I Psikhiatrii Imeni SS Korsakova 99(12): 35-8. 1999.

Comment

The results of the above study indicated that EMB biofeedback treatment of tension headaches had a more long-lasting effect than drugs. I look forward to the day when we are all able to use this technique for our headaches.

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