Psychological disturbances research!

Here is a list of research articles that relate to how psychological disturbances can trigger tension-type headaches and the effectiveness of certain management strategies! 

Click on title which will open up the research article! 

(Krøll et al., 2021) - The effects of aerobic exercise for persons with migraine and co-existing tension-type headache and neck pain. A randomized, controlled, clinical trial

• RCT on aerobic exercise in migraine and co-existing tension-type headache and neck pain

• Exercise group completed aerobic exercises such as bike/cross-trainer/brisk walking for 45 minutes for 3 times per week

• Significant improvement in fitness, migraine burden and ability to engage in physical activity because of reduced impact of tension-type headache and neck pain

(Leistad et al., 2006) - Stress-Induced Pain and Muscle Activity in Patients with Migraine and Tension-Type Headache

• Recorded deep pain and surface electromyographic (EMG) responses to stress

• 60 min cognitive stress followed by 30 min relaxation

• TTH patients had higher pain responses in temporalis and frontalis (similar for trapezius and splenius)

• Delayed EMG recovery in trapezius in those with THH

(Zhao et al., 2026) - Comparative effects of exercise modalities on depression, anxiety, and stress in university students: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

• Review of RCTs - university students older than 18 years, structured exercise for at least 4 weeks, valid measure of depressive, anxiety symptoms and percieved stress

• Suggests 30-59 mins frequently associated with benefits for depression and anxiety, more at 30 mins or longer for stress

• Moderate to vigorous intensity and higher weekly frequency showed favourable outcomes.