Systematic review of randomized clinical trials of complementary/alternative therapies in the treatment of tension-type and cervicogenic headache

Vernon H, McDermaid CS, Hagino CComplement Ther Med1999 Sep;7(3):142-55

OBJECTIVES: To conduct a systematic review of the randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) of complementary/alternative (CAM) therapies in the treatment of non-migrainous headache (i.e. excluding migraine, cluster and organic headaches). DESIGN: Systematic review with quality scoring and evidence tables.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Number of RCTs per therapy, quality scores, evidence tables. RESULTS: Twenty-four RCTs were identified in the categories of acupuncture, spinal manipulation, electrotherapy, physiotherapy, homeopathy and other therapies. Headache categories included tension-type (under various names pre-1988), cervicogenic and post-traumatic. Quality scores for the RCT reports ranged from approximately 30 to 80 on a 100 point scale.

CONCLUSION: RCTs for CAM therapies of the treatment of non-migrainous headache exist in the literature and demonstrate that clinical experimental studies of these forms of headache can be conducted. Evidence from a sub-set of high quality studies indicates that some CAM therapies may be useful in the treatment of these common forms of headache.

SOTO | USA > SOT Literature > Headache > Tension Headaches > Systematic review of randomized clinical trials of complementary/alternative therapies in the treatment of tension-type and cervicogenic headache

Editor Recommends
Most Read Articles

Editor Recommends

This SOT Literature Page and all its contents herein are published by SOTO-USA solely for the purpose of education. All rights reserved by SOTO-USA to accept, reject or modify any submission for publication. The opinions stated in the electronically printed material herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the opinions of SOTO-USA or other individuals associated with SOTO-USA. SOTO-USA does not guarantee or make any representation that the printed material contained herein is valid, reliable or accurate. SOTO-USA does not assume any responsibility for injury arising from any use or misuse of the printed material herein. The printed material contained herein is assumed to be from reliable sources and there is no implication that the printed material herein present the only, or the best methodologies or procedures for the care or treatment of conditions discussed. It is incumbent upon the reader to verify the accuracy of any diagnosis and treatment information contained herein, and to make modifications as new information and/or research arises.