In 2012, a study by Ali Ghanbari, et. al.,  has shed light on the potential benefits of Positional Release Therapy (PRT) for managing Tension Type Headache (TTH). This common type of headache, often linked to myofascial and trigger point disorders, may find an alternative treatment in PRT, an indirect technique aimed at alleviating trigger points.

The objective of the study was to compare the effectiveness of PRT with routine medical therapy in treating TTH. Researchers enrolled 30 patients, all of whom had active trigger points in their cervical muscles. These patients were randomly assigned to either a PRT group or a medical therapy group.

Participants maintained a daily headache diary to record headache frequency, intensity, and duration, as well as the number of tablets consumed. Additionally, the sensitivity of their trigger points was assessed using a numeric pain intensity scale and a digital force gauge (FG 5020).

Both PRT and medical therapy led to significant reductions in headache frequency, duration, and tablet consumption during the treatment phase. However, only the PRT group sustained these improvements during the follow-up phase. Despite these promising results, neither group experienced a significant reduction in headache intensity. Notably, the sensitivity of trigger points significantly decreased in both groups.

When comparing the two groups, researchers found no significant difference in headache frequency, intensity, duration, or tablet consumption. This suggests that PRT and routine medical therapy are equally effective in managing TTH.

The study concludes that both PRT and medical therapy are effective treatments for TTH. Given its sustained benefits, PRT can be considered a viable treatment option for patients suffering from this debilitating condition.

This research offers hope for those seeking alternative therapies for tension type headaches, presenting PRT as a promising candidate for long-term relief.

Reference: Ghanbari, A., Rahimijaberi, A., Mohamadi, M., Abbasi, L., & Sarvestani, F. K. (2012). The effect of trigger point management by positional release therapy on tension type headache. NeuroRehabilitation, 30(4), 333-339.