Paediatric Headache: A New Perspective on Treatment

Abstract

Headache is a widespread pain problem in children and adolescents in a large number of countries. Data on its prevalence and its association with other pain problems and somatic and psychological symptoms is presented. The paper focuses on treatments for headache outside the standard medical canon, which are grounded in the biopsychosocial model of pain. The main interventions evaluated in this field are relaxation training, biofeedback and cognitive behavioural therapy. A currently expanding area of research on Internet-based self-management programs is described. There is evidence of high improvement rates due to psychological treatments and their sustainability. The status of evidence is reviewed and perspectives in this field are discussed.