Effects of Progressive Muscle Relaxation Training Applied in Addition to Aerobic Exercise Training in Individuals With Migraine Diagnosis

Effects of Progressive Muscle Relaxation Training Applied in Addition to Aerobic Exercise Training in Individuals With Migraine Diagnosis

Aim: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of progressive muscle relaxation training, in addition to aerobic exercise training, on pain, disability, quality of life, psychological status, and functional capacity in individuals diagnosed with migraine.

Methods: The study population comprises migraine patients who presented to the Neurology Clinic of Mardin Training and Research Hospital. Participants meeting the inclusion criteria will be randomized into two groups: an exercise group and a control group. The exercise group will receive both aerobic exercise and progressive muscle relaxation training, while the control group will receive only aerobic exercise. Participants' physical and demographic characteristics, as well as migraine-associated symptoms, will be assessed and recorded. Pain characteristics will be evaluated using a pain diary and pressure pain threshold measurements of the head and neck muscles. Disability will be assessed with the Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS). Quality of life will be measured using the Headache Impact Test (HIT-6). Psychological status will be evaluated with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Functional capacity will be assessed clinically using the 6-Minute Walk Test.

Participants in both groups will receive sessions under the supervision of a physiotherapist, three sessions per week for 12 weeks. The aerobic exercise program will consist of a warm-up, a main exercise phase (loading program), and a cool-down period. Progressive muscle relaxation training will be implemented as part of the relaxation training protocol.

The inclusion criteria are listed as follows:

• Having been diagnosed with migraine by a specialist neurologist.
• Experiencing at least 3 migraine attacks per month.
• Being between the ages of 18 and 65.
• Volunteering to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria listed as follows:

• Being pregnant.
• Having any neurological disease other than migraine.
• Having other secondary headaches in addition to migraine.
• Having a recent history of head or neck trauma.
• Participating in a regular exercise program in the last 6 months.
• Having a history of malignancy.
• Having a disease or disability that may prevent aerobic exercise.