An update on the management of post-traumatic headache

Abstract

Recent studies from the UK give the debate about how to deal best with patients suffering from whiplash injury new impetus. Following whiplash injury, about 90% of patients complain about head and/or neck pain, as well as dizziness, sleep problems and anxiety. These symptoms are often referred to as whiplash-associated disorders. In the majority of cases, these complaints develop within a few days or weeks following the accident. However, 30–50% of patients experience prolonged symptoms for more than 6 months, with headache as the main complaint. In accordance with the bio-psycho-social model of chronic post-traumatic headache, the following treatment options have been suggested: (1) proper patient education with detailed explanation of the condition; (2) support of normal movement; (3) avoiding immobilization; (4) resumption of work; and (5) targeted physiotherapy. Based on current study data, intensified physiotherapy seems not to be superior to standard therapy with simple patient education and can therefore not be recommended considering cost–benefit aspects.