Brief mindfulness-based therapy for chronic tension-type headache: A randomized controlled pilot study

Abstract

Background: Mindfulness-based therapy (MBT) has been demonstrated to be effective for reducing chronic pain symptoms; however, the use of MBT for Chronic Tension-Type Headache (CTH) exclusively has to date not been examined. Typically, MBT for chronic pain has involved an 8-week program based on Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. Recent research suggests briefer mindfulness-based treatments may be effective for chronic pain. Aims: To conduct a pilot study into the efficacy of brief MBT for CTH. Method: We conducted a randomized controlled trial of a brief (6-session, 3-week) MBT for CTH. Results: Results indicated a significant decrease in headache frequency and an increase in the mindfulness facet of Observe in the treatment but not wait-list control group. Conclusion: Brief MBT may be an effective intervention for CTH. © British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies 2013.