New guideline on relaxation procedures and behavior therapy appeared

Migraine: guideline on relaxation procedures and behavioral therapy appeared
For the first time, a guideline on relaxation techniques and behavioral therapy interventions for the treatment of migraine has been published. The guideline was developed by a group of authors of the German Migraine and Headache Society (DMKG) and evaluates the current study situation.

Relaxation and behavioral interventions represent a highly effective alternative and complement to drug treatment, according to the authors. The guideline shows: Especially progressive muscle relaxation, cognitive behavioral therapy, endurance sports and biofeedback procedures help the patient.

Physiotherapy, warmth and massages to relieve the symptoms. Picture: animgoberlin - fotolia

In the relaxation procedure, there is a very good evidence for progressive muscle relaxation, which has an advantage over the autogenous training in the easier learning and application.

Although there are still few studies on aerobic endurance sports, concomitant use may be recommended. Very good evidence emerges for the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, which has a positive influence on self-efficacy, control beliefs and expectations.

The use of neurofeedback appears promising in the effective biofeedback process, although the few and exclusively research-based studies do not yet allow a general assessment.

The combination of behavioral and pharmacological treatment is very effective and has the great advantage of preventing or reducing drug overuse. According to guideline authors, a multidisciplinary therapeutic approach is ideal. The guideline can be found here.