This pilot study evaluated the effect of computer animated
relaxation therapy in children between 7 and 13 years with
tension-type headache and the children's experiences with the
therapy. The
therapy consisted of an uncontrolled nine-session course in modified
progressive relaxation therapy assisted by computer animated surface EMG provided from the trapezius muscles and with the physiotherapist as a participant observer. Outcome measures were (a)
headache frequency and intensity, (b) pericranial tenderness, (c) tension patterns, and (d) evaluations assessed at baseline and at 3 months follow up. Nine children, mean age 10.9 (SD 1.7) years, diagnosed with frequent episodic or chronic
tension-type headache completed the course. The results showed a mean improvement of 45% for
headache frequency at 3 months follow up versus baseline and a significant reduction in
headache frequency for all participants and in Total Tenderness Score for children with frequent episodic
tension-type headache. The children expressed a growing understanding of body reactions and an acquired ability to deactivate and regulate these reactions. Computer animated SEMG seems an applicable learning strategy for young
headache sufferers. This study suggests that children below the age of 13 need both the dialog and guidance from a participant observer in order to achieve body awareness.