Since 1962, various classifications for tension-type headache have been proposed. Currently, classification according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd Edition (beta version) (ICHD-3beta) published in 2013 is recommended.
| Grade A |
Diagnostic classification that forms the basis of guidelines is certainly important for formulating clinical care and treatment policies. The ICHD-3beta is not simply a document based on classification, it also addresses diagnosis and treatment scientifically and practically from all aspects.
The classification of tension-type headache (TTH) is provided by the International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd edition beta version (ICHD-3beta).1)2)
The division of tension-type headache into episodic and chronic types adopted by the first edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (1988)3) is extremely useful. The International Classification of Headache Disorders 2nd edition (ICHD-II) further subdivides the episodic type according to frequency, and states that this is based on the difference in pathophysiology. The former episodic tension-type headache (ETTH) is further classified into 2.1 infrequent episodic tension-type headache (IETTH) with headache episodes less than once per month (<12 days/year), and 2.2 frequent episodic tension-type headache (FETTH) with higher frequency and longer duration (<15 days/month). The infrequent subtype has little impact on the individual, and to a certain extent, is understood to be within the range of physiological response to stress in daily life. However, frequent episodes may cause disability that sometimes requires expensive drugs and prophylactic medication. Headache classified as 2.3 chronic tension-type headache (CTTH) with 15 or more headache episodes per month (≥15 days/month) significantly impacts quality of life (QOL) and causes severe disability in daily living, accompanied by high personal and socio-economic costs.
The classification of tension-type headache excerpted from the ICHD-3beta is shown below.
2. Tension-type headache
2.1 Infrequent episodic tension-type headache
2.1.1 Infrequent episodic tension-type headache associated with pericranial tenderness
2.1.2 Infrequent episodic tension-type headache not associated with pericranial tenderness
2.2 Frequent episodic tension-type headache
2.2.1 Frequent episodic tension-type headache associated with pericranial tenderness
2.2.2 Frequent episodic tension-type headache not associated with pericranial tenderness
2.3 Chronic tension-type headache
2.3.1 Chronic tension-type headache associated with pericranial tenderness
2.3.2 Chronic tension-type headache not associated with pericranial tenderness
2.4 Probable tension-type headache
2.4.1 Probable infrequent episodic tension-type headache
2.4.2 Probable frequent episodic tension-type headache
2.4.3 Probable chronic tension-type headache
1) The Headache Classification Committee of International Headache Society: International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd Edition (beta version). Cephalalgia 2013; 33(9): 659-664.
2) Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society (author), International Headache Classification Promotion Committee of Japanese Headache Society (translator): Japanese Edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd edition (beta version). Igakushoin, 2014. (In Japanese)
3) Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society: Classification and diagnostic criteria for headache disorders, cranial neuralgias and facial pain. of headache. Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society. Cephalalgia 1988; 8(Suppl 7): 1-96.
• Search database: PubMed (2011/12/14)
tension type headache 2458
& classification 519
& history 95
(However, no useful references were identified)
Tension-type headache is diagnosed according to the diagnostic criteria of the International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd Edition (beta version) (ICHD-3beta).
| Grade A |
Diagnostic criteria should address diagnosis and treatment scientifically and practically from all aspects. As with other diseases, it is necessary to diagnose tension-type headache based on diagnostic criteria that fulfill the above requirements. Comments concerning the diagnosis of tension-type headache as well as the diagnostic criteria of the ICHD-3beta1) are given below.
The diagnostic criteria for tension-type headache are shown below.
Subtypes of tension-type headache are mainly diagnosed by their respective frequencies of headache (criterion A) as well as by fulfilling the following criteria (B to E).
B. Headache lasting from 30 minutes to 7 days
C. Headache has at least two of the following characteristics:
1. bilateral location
2. pressing or tightening (non-pulsating) quality
3. mild to moderate intensity
4. not aggravated by routine physical activity such as walking or climbing stairs
D. Both of the following:
1. no nausea or vomiting (anorexia may occur)
2. no more than one of photophobia or phonophobia
However, for chronic tension-type headache
1. no more than one of photophobia, phonophobia or mild nausea
2. neither moderate or severe nausea nor vomiting
E. Not better accounted for by another ICHD-3 diagnosis.
A.
2.1 For infrequent episodic tension-type headache, headache occurring on <1 day per month (<12 days per year)
2.2 For frequent episodic tension-type headache, headache occurring on 1 to 14 days per month (≥12 days and <180 days per year)
2.3 For chronic episodic tension-type headache, headache occurring on ≥15 days per month (≥180 days per year)
2.4 In probable tension-type headache, fulfilling one of the diagnostic criteria for tension-type headache, but not meeting criteria for migraine.
According to the opinions of general clinicians, migraine and tension-type headache often cannot be differentiated by severity and the presence or absence of nausea, vomiting, photophobia and phonophobia. Furthermore, the existence of transitional form or intermediate form of tension-type headache and migraine is also a problem.2)3) In addition, the diagnosis of chronic headache is associated with the issue of medication overuse, and hence differentiation is often difficult. These problems have not been completely solved (see CQ III-5, page 158).
On the other hand, it was criticized that the diagnostic criteria for tension-type headache in the first edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (1988)4) adopted many negative features, which might be picked up by other headache disorders. To address the shortcoming of the first edition, the International Classification of Headache Disorders 2nd Edition (ICHD-II)5) has incorporated items of “probable chronic migraine” and “probable tension-type headache”, which have almost solved the issues. The essential feature of the diagnostic criteria may be considered a reverse of the diagnosis of migraine. Furthermore, in ICHD-II,5) episodic tension-type headache is subdivided into an infrequent subtype with headache episodes less than once per month and a frequent subtype. The infrequent subtype has relatively little impact on the individual and does not draw much attention from the medical profession. However, frequent occurring tension-type headache may be associated with disability that sometimes necessitates treatment with expensive drugs or prophylactic medications. Moreover, headache classified as the chronic subtype is a serious disease, having great impact on quality of life (QOL) and causing severe disability.
The ICDH-3beta1) is not simply a document based on classification, but involves careful scrutiny of almost all the available articles with high level of evidence. Its use for diagnosis is highly recommended.
1) Headache Classification Committee of International Headache Society: International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd Edition (beta version). Cephalalgia 2013; 33(9): 659-664.
2) Cady R, Schreiber C, Farmer K, Sheftell F: Primary headaches: a convergence hypothesis. Headache 2002; 42(3): 204-216.
3) Manzoni GC, Torelli P: Headache screening and diagnosis. Neurol Sci 2004; 25(Suppl 3): S255-257.
4) Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society: Classification and diagnostic criteria for headache disorders, cranial neuralgias and facial pain. Headache Classification Committee of the International Headache Society. Cephalalgia 1988; 8(Suppl 7): 1-96.
5) Headache Classification Subcommittee of the International Headache Society: The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd edition. Cephalalgia 2004; 24(Suppl 1): 9-160.
• Search database: PubMed (2011/12/14)
tension type headache 2458
& classification 519
& history 95
(However, no useful references were identified)
Tension-type headache is the most common headache among the primary headaches, and the prevalence varies widely among surveys. To find the precise prevalence, it is necessary to establish suitable survey methods and correct the problems of diagnosis. The risk factors and triggers of tension-type headache have not been defined. The prognosis of episodic tension-type headache is good in majority of the cases, but there exist some cases of poor outcome with progression to chronic tension-type headache.
| Grade B |
Tension-type headache is the most common primary headache, but is also the least studied. Identifying the risk factors and triggers and knowing the prognosis are important in the treatment of tension-type headache.
Headache societies including the International Headache Society (IHS) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) started the initiative ‘Lifting The Burden: The Global Campaign to Reduce the Burden of Headache Worldwide’. As a part of the initiative, Stovner et al.1) calculated the global prevalence of headache by reviewing the results of headache epidemiological surveys conducted worldwide. According to their study, the percentage of the global population with tension-type headache was 38%, and 46% when adult population was calculated. However, only 12 epidemiological studies on adults with tension-type headache were used in their estimation, and the number was extremely small compared to migraine. Moreover, the prevalence reported in different studies varied greatly: ranging from 21.7% to 86.5% in 1-year prevalence, and 12.9% to 78% in life-time prevalence. In Japan, the epidemiological study conducted by Takeshima et al.2) in Daisen reported 1-year prevalence of 21.7%. This figure was also used in the above-mentioned estimation of global prevalence. Following the report of Stovner et al., several epidemiological studies have been conducted, also showing great variation in prevalence. However, most of the studies do share two common findings: tension-type headache has the highest prevalence among the primary headaches, and the prevalence is higher in women than in men. Although some studies reported significant differences in prevalence depending on factors such as educational level and place of domicile (urban or rural), the results were not consistent among studies. Because the prevalence is high in Europe and low in Africa, a report emphasized the correlation between latitude and prevalence.3) The discrepancy in prevalence has been attributed to survey methodology (personal interview, telephone interview, questionnaire, others).1) To obtain the correct prevalence, apart from establishing appropriate survey methods, it is necessary to address the diagnostic issues such as dual diagnosis of chronic migraine and chronic tension-type headache as well as the differentiation between transformed migraine and chronic tension-type headache.4)
There are few studies on risk factors and triggers of tension-type headache, and these factors have not been established. Obesity, insufficient exercise and smoking have been reported to be independent risk factors.5) On the other hand, there is also report that while obesity is a risk factor for chronification of episodic migraine, it is not a risk factor for tension-type headache.6)
The prevalence of tension-type headache decreases with age, but the decrease is not as marked as for migraine. Although rare, first onset after age 50 has been reported, and the prevalence remains high even among the elderly.7) Although the prognosis is generally favorable for episodic tension-type headache, transition to chronic tension-type headache is found in some cases. Lyngberg et al.8) reported that factors associated with poor outcome for tension-type headache include chronic headache at baseline, coexisting migraine, being single, and sleeping problems.
1) Stovner LJ, Hagen K, Jensen R, Katsarava Z, Lipton R, Scher A, Steiner T, Zwart JA: The global burden of headache: a documentation of headache prevalence and disability worldwide. Cephalalgia 2007; 27(3): 193-210.
2) Takeshima T, Ishizaki K, Fukuhara Y, Ijiri T, Kusumi M, Wakutani Y, Mori M, Kawashima M, Kowa H, Adachi Y, Urakimi K, Nakashima K: Population-based door-to-door survey of migraine in Japan: the Daisen study. Headache 2004; 44(1): 8-19.
3) Prakash S, Mehta NC, Dabhi AS, Lakhani O, Khilari M, Shah ND: The prevalence of headache may be related with the latitude: a possible role of Vitamin D insufficiency? J Headache Pain 2010; 11(4): 301-307.
4) Monteith TS, Sprenger T: Tension Type Headache in adolescence and childhood: Where Are We Now? Curr Pain Headache Rep 2010; 14(6): 424-430.
5) Robberstad L, Dyb G, Hagen K, Stovner LJ, Holmen TL, Zwart JA: An unfavorable lifestyle and recurrent headaches among adolescents: the HUNT study. Neurology 2010; 75(8): 712-717.
6) Bigal ME, Lipton RB: Obesity and chronic daily headache. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2008; 12(1): 56-61.
7) Crystal SC, Grosberg BM: Tension-type headache in the elderly. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2009; 13(6): 474-478.
8) Lyngberg AC, Rasmussen BK, Jrgensen T, Jensen R: Prognosis of migraine and tension-type headache: a population-based follow-up study. Neurology 2005; 65(4): 580-585.
• Search database: PubMed (2011/3/10)
tension type headache 2347
& prevalence 652
& risk factor 205
& prognosis 311
The pathophysiology and the pathogenetic mechanism of tension-type headache remain unknown. Evidence is accumulating supporting the possibility that peripheral pain mechanism plays a role in infrequent episodic tension-type headache and frequent episodic tension-type headache, while central pain mechanism plays a more important role in chronic tension-type headache.
| Grade B |
Tension-type headache is the most common headache among the primary headaches. However, the precise pathogenetic mechanism is still unclear, and tension-type headache is also one of the least studied primary headaches regarding the pathophysiology.
In the past, tension-type headache was considered to be primarily psychogenic. After publication of the first edition of the International Classification of Headache Disorders (1988), many studies were published strongly suggesting a neurobiological basis, at least for the severe subtypes of tension-type headache. This section reviews the evidence for the pathophysiology of tension-type headache.
1. Peripheral elements
A high prevalence of pericranial muscle tenderness in tension-type headache patients than in healthy persons has been proven. Moreover, the degree of tenderness is known to correlate with the frequency and intensity of tension-type headache.1) This tendency has been reported to be strong in women.2) On the other hand, muscle tenderness in pericranial and neck-shoulder regions has been reported to be normal in children with tension-type headache.3) However, evaluation of severity of tenderness varies among investigators, and objective assessment is difficult to achieve. For the evaluation of tenderness in tension-type headache, the usefulness of total tenderness score (TTS) and objective assessment using muscle hardness meter has been proven.4)-6) Electromyography also has been used to measure muscle tone in tension-type headache.4)
In a study that examined the effect of administration of botulinum toxin on chronic tension-type headache, although electromyographic improvement in the temporal muscle was observed, headache did not improve.7) Other studies also reported no difference in interstitial lactate concentration in the trapezius muscle at rest and during exercise in patients with chronic tension-type headache compared to healthy controls,8) and also no increase in inflammatory mediators at tender points of the trapezius muscle.9) These findings thus suggest that the pathophysiology of chronic tension-type headache is not associated with hyperactivity, inflammation or metabolic disturbance of pericranial muscles.10)
2. Central elements
Because exercise-induced increase in trapezius muscle blood flow is blunted in patients with chronic tension-type headache, involvement of sympathetic vasoconstriction due to over-excitation of the central nervous system is possible.11) Moreover, increased pain perception was observed in both single and repetitive 2-Hz electrical stimulations, suggesting abnormality in pain control mechanism in the central nervous system.12)
Administration of nitroglycerin that generates nitric oxide in the body is known to induce typical tension-type headache after several hours,13) suggesting that central hypersensitivity to nitric oxide may also be involved in chronic tension-type headache, as in migraine.10) In addition, administration of L-N(G)-methylarginine hydrochloride that inhibits nitric oxide has been shown to reduce muscle tenderness and attenuate headache clinically.14)15) These findings may provide evidence supporting the hypothesis that sensitization of the trigeminal nerve may also be a central element involved in tension-type headache.13)
In normal persons, when the trigeminal nerve is stimulated as an afferent pathway, a muscle contraction inhibitory mechanism mediated by interneurons in the lateral pontine tegmentum connecting with the spinal trigeminal nucleus is known to exist. In some types of tension-type headache, this central muscle contraction inhibitory mechanism has been reported to be deficient.15)16) In chronic tension-type headache, the possibility of secondary involvement of nociceptors in the trigeminal system has been suggested.17)
On the other hand, in episodic tension-type headache, peripheral sensitization of myofascial afferent sensory nerves has been suggested to be a cause of hypersensibility.18)
1) Jensen R, Rasmussen BK, Pedersen B, Olesen J: Muscle tenderness and pressure pain thresholds in headache. A population study. Pain 1993; 52(2): 193-199.
2) Buchgreitz L, Lyngberg A, Bendtsen L, Jensen R: Increased prevalence of tension-type headache over a 12-year period is related to increased pain sensitivity. A population study. Cephalalgia 2007; 27(2): 145-152.
3) Anttila P, Metshonkala L, Mikkelsson M, Aromaa M, Kautiainen H, Salminen J, Viander S, Jppil M, Sillanp M: Muscle tenderness in pericranial and neck-shoulder region in children with headache. A controlled study. Cephalalgia 2002; 22(5): 340-344.
4) Jensen R: Pathophysiological mechanisms of tension-type headache: a review of epidemiological and experimental studies. Cephalalgia 1999; 19(6): 602-621.
5) Sakai F, Ebihara S, Akiyama M, Horikawa M: Pericranial muscle hardness in tension-type headache. A non-invasive measurement method and its clinical application. Brain 1995; 118(Pt 2): 523-531.
6) Ashina M, Bendtsen L, Jensen R, Sakai F, Olesen J: Muscle hardness in patients with chronic tension-type headache: relation to actual headache state. Pain 1999; 79(2-3): 201-205.
7) Rollnik JD, Karst M, Fink M, Dengler R: Botulinum toxin type A and EMG: a key to the understanding of chronic tension-type headaches? Headache 2001; 41(10): 985-989.
8) Ashina M, Stallknecht B, Bendtsen L, Pedersen JF, Galbo H, Dalgaard P, Olessen J: In vivo evidence of altered skeletal muscle blood flow in chronic tension-type headache. Brain 2002; 125(Pt 2): 320-326.
9) Ashina M, Stallknecht B, Bendtsen L, Pedersen JF, Schiffer S, Galbo H, Olesen J: Tender points are not sites of ongoing inflammation─in vivo evidence in patients with chronic tension-type headache. Cephalalgia 2003; 23(2): 109-116.
10) Fumal A, Schoenen J: Tension-type headache: current research and clinical management. Lancet Neurol 2008; 7(1): 70-83.
11) Fernndez-de-las-Peas C, Bueno A, Ferrando J, Eliott JM, Cuadrado ML, Pareja JA: Magnetic resonance imaging study of the morphometry of cervical extensor muscles in chronic tension-type headache. Cephalalgia 2007; 27(4): 355-362.
12) Ashina S, Bendtsen L, Ashina M, Magerl W, Jensen R: Generalized hyperalgesia in patients with chronic tension-type headache. Cephalalgia 2006; 26(8): 940-948.
13) Ashina M, Bendtsen L, Jensen R, Olesen J: Nitric oxide-induced headache in patients with chronic tension-type headache. Brain 2000; 123(Pt 9): 1830-1837.
14) Ashina M, Lassen LH, Bendtsen L, Jensen R, Olsen J: Effect of inhibition of nitric oxide synthase on chronictension-type headache: a randomised crossover trial. Lancet 1999; 353(9149): 287-289.
15) Ashina M, Bendtsen L, Jensen R, Lassen LH, Sakai F, Okesen J: Possible mechanisms of action of nitric oxide synthase inhibitors in chronic tension-type headache. Brain 1999; 122(Pt 9): 1629-1635.
16) Schoenen J, Jamart B, Gerard P, Lenarduzzi P, Delwaide PJ: Exteroceptive suppression of temporalis muscle activity in chronic headache. Neurology 1987; 37(12): 1834-1836.
17) Proietti-Cecchini A, fra J, Maertens de Noordhout A, Schoenen J: Modulation of pressure pain thresholds during isometric contraction in patients with chronic tension-type headache and/or generalized myofascial pain compared to healthy volunteers. J Neurology 1997; 48: A258.
18) Mrk H, Ashina M, Bendtsen L, Olessen J, Jensen R: Induction of prolonged tenderness in patients with tension-type headache by means of a new experimental model of myofascial pain. Eur J Neurol 2003; 10(3): 249-256.
• Search database: PubMed (2011/12/21)
tension type headache & pathophysiology 745
When headache episodes are diagnosed individually, differentiation between transformed migraine and chronic tension-type headache is difficult. The two can be discriminated by a comprehensive approach to diagnosis considering the treatment, headache response and clinical course. Chronic migraine in the International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd Edition (beta version) includes the concept of transformed migraine.
| Grade B |
Although transformed migraine is not described in the International Classification of Headache Disorders 2nd Edition (ICHD-II), it is an important headache disorder encountered in the routine clinical setting. While differentiation between transformed migraine and chronic tension-type headache may be difficult, discrimination of the two is important in the treatment of chronic headaches.
“Transformed migraine” as proposed by Mathew1) is not included in the International Classification of Headache Disorders 2nd Edition (ICHD-II), but this headache disorder is widely accepted in routine clinical practice. A large number of patients present with a pattern consisting of infrequent but severe migraine attacks at younger ages, evolving to more frequent but less severe headaches as age advances, with a gradual loss of migraine characteristics. Transformed migraine is generally diagnosed according to the Silberstein-Lipton diagnostic criteria.2)3) These diagnostic criteria include the item of “a history of migraine”, while the current headache diagnostic criteria only specify the frequency and duration of headache attacks. With the Silberstein-Lipton diagnostic criteria, if the headache fulfilled the criteria for migraine in the past, then transformed migraine can be diagnosed even though the present headache has lost all the elements of migraine. In other words, transformed migraine is not diagnosed as a point at one headache episode, but as a line including the past history of headache.
The ICHD-II4) basically diagnoses headache episodes individually, and diagnosis criteria including also the past history are not compatible with ICHD-II. This constitutes the difference in concept between chronic migraine in ICHD-II published in 2004 and transformed migraine.2) The 2004 diagnostic criteria for chronic migraine require that individual headache episodes fulfill the characteristics of migraine. Therefore, for patients who satisfy the Silberstein-Lipton criteria for transformed migraine, if their present headaches have lost all the features of migraine, they are most probably not diagnosed with chronic migraine but with chronic tension-type headache if there is no medication overuse. However, to address the criticism that very few patients fit into the 2004 diagnostic criteria for chronic migraine, the International Headache Society published revised diagnostic criteria for chronic migraine in 2006, to be included in the appendix of ICHD-II.5) According to these criteria, a headache can be diagnosed as chronic migraine if headaches fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for migraine occur on more than 8 days per month, even in the presence of other headaches. Furthermore, in the case that the present headache has no characteristics of migraine but progression to migraine attack is suggested, the criterion “treated and relieved by triptans or ergot before the expected development of migraine symptoms” was added to allow a diagnosis of chronic migraine. Using these criteria, a considerable number of cases of transformed migraine without medication overuse would be diagnosed as chronic migraine. However, if triptan or ergotamine is not effective, then the headache will not be classified as chronic migraine. Eventually, transformed migraine and chronic migraine are not the same entity. In the International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd Edition (beta version) published in 2013,6) chronic migraine includes the concept of transformed migraine.
In conclusion, when headache episodes are diagnosed individually, differentiation between chronic tension-type headache and transformed migraine is difficult, but the two can be discriminated if past history is considered.7) The general treatment strategy for chronic tension-type headache that has evolved from episodic tension-type headache may differ from that for transformed migraine that has lost the migraine features and resembles chronic tension-type headache. When making a diagnosis of chronic tension-type headache, the possibility of transformed migraine has to be borne in mind and a careful clinical interview including past history of headache has to be conducted.
1) Mathew NT: Transformed migraine Cephalalgia 1993; 13(Suppl 12): 78-83.
2) Bigal ME, Tepper SJ, Sheftell FD, Rapoport AM, Lipton RB: Chronic daily headache: correlation between the 2004 and the 1988 International Headache Society diagnostic criteria. Headache 2004; 44(7): 684-691.
3) Siberstein SD, Lipton RB, Solomon S, Mathew NT: Classification of daily and near-daily headaches: proposed revisions to the IHS criteria. Headache 1994; 34(1): 1-7.
4) Headache Classification Subcommittee of the International Headache Society: The International Classification of Headache Disorders: 2nd edition. Cephalalgia 2004; 24(Suppl 1): 9-160.
5) Headache Classification Committee; Olesen J, Bousser MG, Diener HC, Dodick D, First M, Goadsby PJ, Gbel H, Lainez MJ, Lance JW, Lipton RB, Nappi G, Sakai F, Schoenen J, Sliberstein SD, Steiner TJ: New appendix criteria open for a broader concept of chronic migraine. Cephalalgia 2006; 26(6): 742-746.
6) Headache Classification Committee of International Headache Society: International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd Edition (beta version). Cephalalgia 2013; 33(9): 659-664.
7) Manzoni GC, Torelli P: Chronic migraine and chronic tension-type headache: are they the same or different? Neurol Sci 2009; 30(Suppl 1): S81-84.
• Search database: PubMed (2011/3/10)
tension type headache 2347
& transformed migraine 84
Various types of tension-type headache exist, and the types that cause disability in daily living should be treated. Among them, frequent episodic tension-type headache and chronic tension-type headache require treatment. Therapies can be divided into acute treatment and prophylactic treatment, each of which can be pharmacotherapy and non-pharmacotherapy. For acute treatment, attention has to be paid to medication-overuse headache. For prophylactic therapy, occurrence of adverse effects should be monitored.
| Grade A, C |
Tension-type headache is the most common headache among the primary headaches. Among the various types, frequent tension-type headache and chronic tension-type headache cause severe disability in daily living, and are conventionally treated with acute and prophylactic therapies. Comments on the evidence for the necessity and options of these treatments are given in this section.
The International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd Edition (beta version) (ICHD-3beta)1) subdivides episodic tension-type headache into an infrequent subtype with headache episodes less than once per month and a frequent subtype. Tension-type headaches that occur infrequently and improve with over-the-counter (OTC) drugs usually do not require consultation of medical facility, except for the patient’s own reassurance. On the other hand, when headache restricts daily life or when headache frequency and intensity increase, then treatment is required. Furthermore, patients who are taking OTC drugs more than necessary may develop medication-overuse headache or rebound headache, and these patients also require appropriate treatment2)3) (grade A recommendation).
In general, patients who need treatment are those who have frequent episodic tension-type headache or chronic tension-type headache. While central pain mechanisms (including stress, depressed mood, central pain processing abnormality, and central sensitization) play more important roles in chronic tension-type headache, peripheral pain mechanisms (including muscle strain, myofascial factor, and peripheral sensitization) are most likely involved in infrequent episodic tension-type headache. Treatments for central mechanisms such as tricyclic antidepressants, stress management, relaxation training, and acupuncture; and therapies for peripheral mechanisms such as relaxation training and physical therapy have been investigated4) (grade C recommendation).
Therapies for tension-type headache are divided into acute (abortive) treatment and prophylactic treatment. Each consists of pharmacotherapy and non-pharmacotherapy4)5) (grade A recommendation).
For acute treatment by pharmacotherapy, medication-overuse headache that results in treatment failure should always be borne in mind, and use for more than 2 to 3 days per week should be avoided1)-3) (grade A recommendation).
Prophylactic therapy should be considered for patients with frequent episodic tension-type headache and patients who do not respond adequately to acute treatment. Especially, for patients who have headaches two or more times per month, prompt initiation of prophylactic therapy should be considered because headache may subsequently increase exponentially6) and the effectiveness of prophylactic therapy may be reduced by frequent use of acute medications.2) However, whether treatment can prevent or delay the progression of infrequent tension-type headache to chronic tension-type headache remains unclear.2) Furthermore, a review reported no prophylactic effect of antidepressants.7) For this reason and considering also adverse effects, if there is no response, a decision has to be made on whether to continue medication for three months (6 months the longest) or discontinue treatment4)5) (grade A recommendation).
On the other hand, stress and mental strain are risk factors of tension-type headache,8)9) while depressive and anxiety disorders are risk factors of progression to chronic headache.10) Moreover, compared to headache-free subjects, patients with migraine and chronic tension-type headache are 2 to 5 times more likely to have depressive and anxiety disorders as comorbidities.11)-14) These psychiatric disorders also require treatment (grade C recommendation).
Regarding treatment for oromandibular dysfunction, since headache-free subjects may also have oromandibular dysfunction, this aspect has not been analyzed adequately. However, since oromandibular dysfunction is a risk factor of tension-type headache, treatment should be considered15)-17) (grade C recommendation).
Other factors that may induce tension-type headache include inadequate exercise and prone posture, and basic treatment should be considered (grade C recommendation).
When encountering cases in which diagnosis of headache type is difficult or treatment effect is inadequate, referral to an expert is recommended.2)
1) The Headache Classification Committee of International Headache Society: International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd Edition (beta version). Cephalalgia 2013; 33(9): 659-664.
2) Loder E, Rizzoli P: Tension-type headache. BMJ 2008; 336(7635): 88-92.
3) Dodick D, Freitag F: Evidence-based understanding of medication-overuse headache: clinical implications. Headache 2006; 46(suppl 4): S202-211.
4) Fumal A, Schoenen J: Tension-type headache: current research and clinical management. Lancet Neurol 2008; 7(1): 70-83.
5) Bendtsen L, Evers S, Linde M, Mitsikostas DD, Sandrini G, Schoenen J; EFNS: EFNS guideline on the treatment of tension-type headache-report of an EFNS task force. Eur J Neurol 2010; 17(11): 1318-1325.
6) Scher AI, Stewart WF, Ricci JA, Lipton RB: Factors associated with the onset and remission of chronic daily headache in a population-based study. Pain 2003; 106(1-2): 81-89.
7) Verhagen AP, Damen L, Berger MY, Passchier J, Koes BW: Lack of benefit for prophylactic drugs of tension-type headache in adults: a systematic review. Fam Pract 2010; 27(2): 151-165.
8) Spierings EL, Ranke AH, Honkoop PC: Precipitating and aggravation factors of migraine versus tension-type headache. Headache 2001; 41(6): 554-558.
9) Rasmussen BK: Migraine and tension-type headache in a general population: precipitating factors, female hormones, sleep pattern and relation to lifestyle. Pain 1993; 53(1): 65-72.
10) Smitherman TA, Rains JC, Penzien DB: Psychiatric comorbidities and migraine chronification. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2009; 13(4): 326-331.
11) Breslau N: Psychiatric comorbidity in migraine. Cephalalgia 1998; 18(Suppl 22): 56-61.
12) Heckman BD, Holroyd KA: Tension-type headache and psychiatric comorbidity. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2006; 10(6): 439-447.
13) Pompili M, Di Cosimo D, Innamorati M, Lester D, Tatarelli R, Martelletti P: Psychiatric comorbidity in patients with chronic daily headache and migraine: a selective overview including personality traits and suicide risk. J Headache Pain 2009; 10(4): 283-290.
14) Saunders K, Merikangas K, Low NC, Von Korff M, Kessler RC: Impact of comorbidity on headache-related disability. Neurology 2008; 70(7): 538-547.
15) Jensen R, Rasmussen BK, Pedersen B, Lous I, Olesen J: Prevalence of oromandibular dysfunction in a general population. J Orofac Pain 1993; 7(2): 175-182.
16) Forsell H, Kirveskari P, Kangasniemi P: Changes in headache after treatment of mandibular dysfunction. Cephalalgia 1985; 5(4): 229-236.
17) Schokker RP, Hansson TL, Ansink BJ: The results of treatment of the masticatory system of chronic headache patients. J Craniomandib Disord 1990; 4(2): 126-130.
• Search database: PubMed (2011/12/21)
tension headache & treatment 646
tension (type) headache & treatment 1215
Pharmacotherapy is the mainstay of acute treatment for tension-type headache. Medications are primarily analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and their efficacy has been proven. There is little evidence on differential use of these drugs. It is important to always pay attention to medication-overuse headache that results in treatment failure. Specifically, use for more than 2 to 3 times per week should be avoided.
| Grade A-C |
Tension-type headache is the most commonly encountered headache in routine clinical care, and occupies the largest fraction of functional headache. Various pharmacotherapies are the mainstay of acute treatment for tension-type headache. However, acute pharmacotherapy should be used with caution so as not to induce medication-overuse headache.
Pharmacotherapy using analgesics and NSAIDs is the main acute treatment for tension-type headache.1)-7) The representative analgesic is acetaminophen, and the representative NSAIDs aspirin, mefenamic acid, and ibuprofen are recommended (grade A recommendation). However, since adverse effects such as gastrointestinal disturbance and hematopoietic disturbance may occur, caution has to be exercised during administration. For pregnant women with onset of tension-type headache, acetaminophen is selected also from the safety viewpoint.
Combination therapy with caffeine, which is known to be an effective acute medication, is fast-acting but can cause dependence, with a risk of inducing medication-overuse headache.8) A recent report has indicated the effectiveness of selective cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitor for the treatment of episodic tension-type headache.9)
Representative drugs and the recommendation grades are listed below.
1. Analgesics and NSAIDs (grade A recommendation)
(1) acetaminophen 500 mg
(2) aspirin 500 to 1,000 mg
(3) ibuprofen 200 to 800 mg
(4) ketoprofen 25 mg
(5) naproxen 200 to 600 mg
(6) diclofenac 12.5 to 50 mg
(7) loxoprofen 60 mg
All taken as needed
2. Caffeine 65 to 200 mg taken as needed (useful when used in combination) (grade B recommendation)
3. Selective COX-2 inhibitors (grade C recommendation)
1) Headache Classification Subcommittee of the International headache Society: The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd edition. Cephalalgia 2004; 24(Suppl 1): 9-160.
2) Bezov D, Ashina S, Jensen R, Bendtsen L: Pain perception studies in tension-type headache. Headache 2011; 51(2): 262-271.
3) Loder E, Rizzoli P: Tension-type headache. BMJ 2008; 336(7635): 88-92.
4) Bendtsen L, Jensen R: Treating tension-type headache-an expert opinion. Expert Opin pharmacother 2011; 12(7): 1099-1109.
5) Fumal A, Schoenen J: Tension-type headache: current research and clinical management. Lancet Neurol. 2008; 7(1): 70-83.
6) Bendtsen L, Evers S, Linde M, Mitsikostas DD, Sandrini G, Schoenen J; EFN: EFNS guideline on the treatment of tension-type headache—report of an EFNS task force. Eur J Neurol 2010; 17(11): 1318-1325.
7) Fumal A, Schoenen J: Tension-type headache: current research and clinical management. Lancet Neurol 2008; 7(1): 70-83.
8) Dodick D, Freitag F: Evidence-based understanding of medication-overuse headache: clinical implications. Headache 2006; 46(suppl 4): S202-211.
9) Packman E, Packman B, Thurston H, Tseng L: Lumiracoxib is effective in the treatment of episodic tension-type headache. Headache 2005; 45(9): 1163-1170.
• Search database: PubMed (2011/12/21)
tension headache & treatment 654
tension (type) headache & treatment 1208
Prophylactic therapy for tension-type headache can be broadly divided into pharmacotherapy and non-pharmacotherapy. Pharmacotherapy using mainly antidepressants, and non-pharmacotherapies using electromyographic biofeedback therapy, physical therapy, acupuncture, exercise therapy (exercise to relax neck and occipital muscles), psychotherapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (such as lifestyle guidance) are being conducted. Regarding the treatment duration for pharmacotherapy using mainly antidepressants, assess the outcome after around 3 months (the longest 6 months) and decide whether to continue or discontinue medication. On the other hand, evidence for the treatment duration for non-pharmacotherapies have not been established.
| Grade A-C |
Prophylactic therapies for tension-type headache comprise pharmacotherapy and non-pharmacotherapy. Pharmacotherapy is conducted mainly using antidepressants. In contrast, non-pharmacotherapy attempts to reduce headache utilizing combinations of various modalities such as electromyographic biofeedback therapy, physical therapy, acupuncture, exercise therapy (exercise to relax neck and occipital muscles), psychotherapy, and lifestyle guidance.
Among the different types of tension-type headache, prophylactic therapy is used for episodic tension-type headache (especially the frequent subtype) and chronic tension-type headache. In episodic tension-type headache, since not only increased craniocervical muscle tension induces pain but central pain mechanisms are also involved,1)2) pain processing dysfunction caused by psychological stress or emotional disturbance is presumed to be the fundamental problem. From this point of view, treatment with oral antidepressants is most frequently used as a treatment with high level of evidence.3)-8) Especially, prophylactic therapy using tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline is recommended (grade B recommendation). Tetracyclic antidepressants are also sometimes selected because they can be used in combination with muscle relaxants such as tizanidine and eperison, with also the merit of few adverse effects.
For chronic tension-type headache also, first a history should be taken on whether there is medication overuse; and in the case of overuse, in principle medication is discontinued or tapered. Pharmacotherapy for chronic tension-type headache also mainly uses muscle relaxants and antidepressants. Since chronic tension-type headache is often evolved from episodic tension-type headache, the tricyclic antidepressant amitriptyline is especially effective as a prophylactic medication. For treatment, start from a low dose of 5 to 10 mg/day, and titrate up to around 30 mg/day, but pay attention to adverse effects such as thirst and constipation. In chronic tension-type headache, headache per se is a stressor, and tends to cause secondary depression or anxiety. And, these psychological factors may further exacerbate headache, leading to refractory headache. For patients who have developed refractory headache, explain to the patients about the relationship between psychological stress and headache. At the same time, in additional to tricyclic or tetracyclic antidepressants for the treatment of depression as for episodic tension-type headache, selection and use of appropriate serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) or noradrenergic and specific serotonergic antidepressant (NaSSA) is recommended. For patients who complain of strong anxiety, use of anxiolytic in treatment provides prompt relief. The effectiveness of anxiolytic was investigated in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of etizolam and mefenamic acid combination therapy in 144 patients with frequent or infrequent tension-type headache. While no overall significant difference for etizolam was detected, headache and shoulder pain were improved significantly in female and young patients treated with etizolam and mefenamic acid combination compared to mefenamic acid alone.9)
Studies in recent years have found that among patients with chronic tension-type headache, some manifest headache as a somatic symptom of psychiatric disorder,10) and the prevalence of such cases is high. The majority are somatoform disorders such as somatization disorder and pain disorder, emotional disorders such as major depression and dysthymia, and anxiety disorders such as panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. These are secondary headaches [International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (beta version); A12. Headache attributed to psychiatric disorder], and treatment in corroboration with psychosomatic specialist or psychiatrist is recommended.
No evidence can be found for the therapeutic effect of greater occipital nerve block that has long been used for the treatment of chronic tension-type headache. Several studies investigating the effectiveness of botulinum toxin11)-14) reported no therapeutic effect for episodic tension-type headache, and therapeutic effect for chronic tension-type headache only when relatively large doses were injected at specific sites. It should be noted that when botulinum toxin is chosen to treat tension-type headache, fast-acting effect should not be expected. Other non-pharmacotherapies7), used for prophylactic therapy15)-17) include electromyographic biofeedback therapy (grade A recommendation) and exercise for headache relief (grade B recommendation), as well as cognitive behavioral therapy, neck acupressure, acupuncture, Tiger Balm, percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS), and hypnotherapy, all of which are grade C recommendation.
Representative drugs used in prophylactic therapy are shown below.
1. Antidepressants/antiepileptic drugs
1) Tricyclic antidepressants
(1) amitriptyline 5 to 75 mg/day (grade A recommendation)
(2) clomipramine 75 to 150 mg/day (grade B recommendation)
2) Tetracyclic antidepressants (grade B recommendation)
(1) maprotiline 75 mg/day
(2) mianserin 30 to 60 mg/day
3) NaSSA
mirtazapine 30 mg/day (grade B recommendation)
4) Antiepileptic drug
topiramate (grade C recommendation)
2. Anxiolytics
(1) alprazolam 0.4 to 1.2 mg/day (grade B recommendation)
(2) etizolam 0.5 to 1 mg/day (grade B-C recommendation for combination therapy)
(for both, avoid continuous use)
3. Muscle relaxants
(1) tizanidine 3 to 6 mg/day (grade B recommendation)
(2) eperison 150 mg/day (grade C recommendation)
1) Jensen R: Peripheral and central mechanisms in tension-type headache: an update. Cephalalgia 2003; 23(Suppl 1): 49-52.
2) Bendtsen L: Sensitization: its role in primary headache. Curr Opin Investig Drugs 2002; 3(3): 449-453.
3) Headache Classification Subcommittee of the International headache Society: The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd edition. Cephalalgia 2004; 24(Suppl 1): 9-160.
4) Pielsticker A, Haag G, Zaudig M, Lautenbacher S: Impairment inhibition in chronic tension-type headache. Pain 2005; 11(1-2): 215-223.
5) Mathew NT: Tension-type headache. Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep 2006; 6(2): 100-105.
6) Fumal A, Schoenen J. Tension-type headache: current research and clinical management. Lancet Neurol 2008; 7(1): 70-83.
7) Bendtsen L, Evers S, Linde M, Mitsikostas DD, Sandrini G, Schoenen J; EFNS: EFNS guideline on the treatment of tension-type headache-report of an EFNS task force. Eur J Neurol 2010; 17(11): 1318-1325.
8) Verhagen AP, Damen L, Berger MY, Passchier J, Koes BW: Lack of benefit for prophylactic drugs of tension-type headache in adults: a systematic review. Fam Pract 2010; 27(2): 151-165.
9) Hirata K, Tatsumoto M, Araki N, Takeshima T, Igarashi H, Shibata K, Sakai F: Multi-center randomized control trial of etizolam plus NSAID combination for tension-type headache. Intern Med 2007; 46(8): 467-472.
10) Heckman BD, Holroyd KA: Tension-type headache and psychiatric comorbidity. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2006; 10(6): 439-447.
11) Evers E, Olesen J: Botulinum toxin in headache treatment: the end of the road? Cephalalgia 2006; 26(7): 769-771.
12) Zwart JA, Bovim G, Sand T, Sjaastad O: Tension headache: botulinum toxin paralysis of temporal muscles. Headache 1994; 34(8): 458-462.
13) Schulte-Mattler WJ, Krack P; BoNTTH Study Group: Treatment of chronic tension-type headache with botulinum toxin A: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter study. Pain 2004; 109(1-2): 110-114.
14) Silberstein SD, Gbel H, Jensen R, Elkind AH, Degryse R, Walcott JM, Turkel C: Botulinum toxin type A in the prophylactic treatment of chronic tension-type headache: a multicentre, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study. Cephalalgia 2006; 26(7): 790-800.
15) Arianne PV, Leonie D, Marjolein YB, Jan P, Bart WK: Behavioral treatments of chronic tension-type headache in adults? Are they benefical? CNS Neurosci Ther 2009; 15(2): 183-205.
16) van Ettekoven H, Lucas C: Efficacy of physiotherapy including a craniocervical training programme for tension-type headache; a randomized clinical trial. Cephalalgia 2006; 26(8): 983-991.
17) Hopton A, MacPherson H: Acupuncture for chronic pain: is acupuncture more than an effective placebo? A systematic review of pooled data from meta-analyses. Pain Pract 2010; 10(2): 94-102.
• Search database: PubMed (2011/12/21)
tension headache & treatment654
tension (type) headache & treatment1208
Non-pharmacotherapies for tension-type headache include psycho-behavioral therapy, physical therapy, acupuncture, and Tiger Balm®, and those with proven usefulness warrant recommendation as treatment method. Among them, combined use of electromyographic biofeedback (psycho-behavioral therapy) and relaxation training is recommended.
| Grade A |
Non-pharmacotherapies for tension-type headache include psycho-behavioral therapy, physical therapy, acupuncture, and Tiger Balm®, and only those that are proven useful would warrant recommendation. The evidence for the effectiveness of non-pharmacotherapy for tension-type headache is reviewed and commented.
Non-pharmacotherapies comprise the following:
A. Psycho-behavioral therapy (grade A or C recommendation)
(1) electromyographic biofeedback (grade A recommendation)
(2) cognitive behavioral therapy (grade C recommendation)
(3) relaxation training (grade C recommendation)
(4) hypnotherapy (grade C recommendation)
B. Physical therapy (grade C recommendation)
(1) exercise program
*Exercise for relief of headache (grade B recommendation)
(2) massage, neck acupressure
(3) ultrasound and electrical stimulation
(4) improvement of posture
(5) oromandibular treatment
(6) hot and cold packs
C. Acupuncture (grade C recommendation)
D. Tiger Balm® (grade C recommendation)
Psycho-behavioral therapies consist of electromyographic (EMG) biofeedback, cognitive behavioral therapy, relaxation training and hypnotherapy.
In EMG biofeedback, an electromyograph is used to present the action potential of muscles to the patient, so that the patient becomes aware of the muscle tension and try to control it. This method is considered effective. Active use of EMG biofeedback combined with relaxation training achieves long-term efficacy more easily.1) However, it is not clear whether the effect differs depending on the subtype of tension-type headache.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is an approach to enable patient to recognize the relationship between stress and headache. Various exercises are used. The method is considered effective, but clear evidence is lacking at present.2)3)
Relaxation training includes breathing exercise and meditation. Evidence for effectiveness is inconclusive.2)
The effectiveness of hypnotherapy is unknown.2)4)
Many of the physical therapies are difficult to evaluate precisely, but study has suggested the effectiveness of exercise program, and this approach is recommended also because of low cost.5) Exercise for relief of headache has level 4 evidence, based on expert opinion and experience. However, because of few adverse effects and low cost, exercise for relief of headache is given grade B recommendation. In addition, combined use with massage, relaxation and exercise program is effective.6)7) Other treatments are also widely used, but there are no report clearly showing effectiveness. Spinal manipulation has been used, but no effectiveness is demonstrated and this method is not recommended.
Acupuncture is effective for short-term outcome (up to three months), and is speculated to be more effective in the long term.8)9). However, further study is needed.
Topical application of Tiger Balm® or peppermint oil on the forehead is reported to be superior to placebo.10)
1) Nestoriuc Y, Rief W, Martin A: Meta-analysis of biofeedback for tension-type headache: efficacy, specificity, and treatment moderators. J Consult Clin Psychol 2008; 76(3): 379-396.
2) Verhagen AP, Damen L, Berger MY, Passchier J, Koes BW: Behavioral treatments of chronic tension-type headache in adults: are they beneficial? CNS Neurosci Ther 2009; 15(2): 183-205.
3) Silver N: Headache (chronic tension-type). Am Fam Physician 2007; 76(1): 114-116.
4) Krner-Herwig B: Chronic pain syndromes and their treatment by psychological interventions. Curr Opin Psychiatry 2009; 22(2): 200-204.
5) Fricton J, Velly A, Ouyang W, Look JO: Does exercise therapy improve headache? a systematic review with meta-analysis. Curr Pain Headache Rep 2009; 13(6): 413-419.
6) Torelli P, Jensen R, Olesen J: Physiotherapy for tension-type headache: a controlled study. Cephalalgia 2004; 24(1): 29-36.
7) van Ettekoven H, Lucas C: Efficacy of physiotherapy including a craniocervical training programme for tension-type headache; a randomized clinical trial. Cephalalgia 2006; 26(8): 983-991.
8) Linde K, Allais G, Brinkhaus B, Manheimer E, Vickers A, White AR: Acupuncture for tension-type headache. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2009 ;(1): CD007587.
9) Hopton A, MacPherson H: Acupuncture for chronic pain: is acupuncture more than an effective placebo? A systematic review of pooled data from meta-analyses. Pain Pract 2010; 10(2): 94-102.
10) Fumal A, Schoenen J: Tension-type headache: current research and clinical management. Lancet Neurol 2008; 7(1): 70-83.
• Search database: PubMed (2011/12/21)
tension headache & treatment 646
tension (type) headache & treatment 1215
At the present time, the effectiveness of botulinum toxin (BTX) for tension-type headache has not been established. Most of the adverse effects of BTX are due to excessive pharmacological action, and no serious effects have been reported. Therefore, BTX may be used to reduce symptoms of chronic tension-type headache when other treatments have failed. However, BTX is not fast-acting and is currently not covered by health insurance in Japan.
| Grade C |
The pathogenetic mechanisms of tension-type headache remain unclear. Several hypotheses have been proposed. (1) Hypersensitivity to pain in craniocervical tissues (especially increased muscle tone) has been proposed as the peripheral factor. (2) Changes in central pain sensitivity (especially lowering of pain threshold and amplification of normal central nociceptive input) due to continuous excessive nociceptive input from the periphery have been proposed as the central factor. The latter is considered to occur more commonly in chronic tension-type headache.
In tension-type headache, the major action of BTX, which is reducing muscle tone, is expected to improve the peripheral factor. In addition, inhibition of input from muscle spindle may also improve the central factor. Since these effects persist for several months (usually 3-4 months), BTX can be expected to be useful as a prophylactic therapy, but not as a fast-acting agent.
In this section, the effectiveness of BTX in tension-type headache is evaluated.
Since Zwart et al.1) first reported the effect of BTX on tension-type headache in 1994, a large number of reports have appeared. The earlier reports were mostly open-label studies. Recently, randomized placebo-controlled double-blind studies have been conducted.2)-7) Among them, two reports corresponding to level I evidence have been published.2)3)
A study of BTX treatment in 112 patients with chronic tension-type headache comparing headache at 6 weeks before treatment and 12 weeks after treatment found no significant difference between BTX (500 mouse unit) and placebo.2) A study in 300 patients with chronic tension-type headache reported no difference in headache improvement at day 60 after treatment between all BTX doses and placebo, but less decrease in days with headache with 150 U BTX compared to placebo.3) However, this study reported 50% reduction in headaches at day 90 in the other dose groups.
Other studies suggested a tendency of symptom improvement up to 12 weeks but no significant difference,4)5) and a reduction in headache after a prolonged observation period of 240 days.6)
Based on the above reports, the conclusion in American and European countries is that BTX is not effective for chronic tension-type headache, at least by short-term treatment.8)
However, there are issues regarding the evaluation of effectiveness of BTX therapy; differences in total dose and site of injection among studies. On one hand, increasing the dose does not achieve effectiveness. On the other hand, two methods of administration are used: injection at a specified site (fixed method), and injection at the site of pain (follow the pain method). In the future, comparative studies including control subjects and using a fixed injection method should be conducted to examine the usefulness of BTX for tension-type headache.
Adverse effects were reported in 2.5 to 25% of subjects treated with BTX, mainly as transient or mild muscular weakness. Safety is rated as totolerable.8)
1) Zwart JA, Bovim G, Sand T, Sjaastad O: Tension headache: botulinum toxin paralysis of temporal muscles. Headache 1994; 34(8): 458-462.
2) Schulte-Mattler WJ, Krack P; BoNTTH Study Group: Treatment of chronic tension-type headache with botulinum toxin A: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicenter study. Pain 2004; 109(1-2): 110-114.
3) Silberstein SD, Gbel H, Jensen R, Elkind AH, Degryse R, Walcott JM, Turkel C: Botulinum toxin type A in the prophylactic treatment of chronic tension-type headache: a multicentre, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study. Cephalalgia 2006; 26(7): 790-800.
4) Ondo WG, Vuong KD, Derman HS: Botulinum toxin A for chronic daily headache: a randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel design study. Cephalalgia 2004; 24(1): 60-65.
5) Padberg M, de Bruijn SF, de Haan RJ, Tavy DL: Treatment of chronic tension-type headache with botulinum toxin: a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Cephalalgia 2004; 24(8): 675-680.
6) Silberstein SD, Stark SR, Lucas SM, Christie SN, Degryse RE, Turkel CC; BoNTA-039 Study Group: Botulinum toxin type A for the prophylactic treatment of chronic daily headache: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Mayo Clin Proc 2005; 80(9): 1126-1137.
7) Relja M, Telarovi S: Botulinum toxin in tension-type headache. J Neurol 2004; 251(suppl 1): l12-14.
8) Naumann M, So Y, Argoff CE, Childers MK, Dykstra DD, Gronseth GS, Jabbari B, Kaufmann HC, Schurch B, Silberstein SD, Simpson DM; Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology: Assessment: Botulinum neurotoxin in the treatment of autonomic disorders and pain (an evidence-based review): report of the Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology. Neurology 2008; 70(19): 1707-1714.
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Headache & botulinum 379
{tension type headache} & botulinum 114