Diaphragm Relaxation Techniques, Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises for Migraine Patients

A Comparative Study of Diaphragm Relaxation Techniques, Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercises, and Manual Therapy on Pain and Quality of Life in Individuals With Migraine

Migraine is a neurological disease characterized by recurring headaches. It is a significant public health problem of the top reasons for disability throughout the world. This study is planned to compare the effects of relaxation techniques of the diaphragm (midsection), diaphragmatic respiration exercises, and manual therapy applications on the severity and intensity of pain and lquality of life. 42 patients diagnosed with migraine aged between 18 and 60 participated in the study. Patients were divided into 3 groups; diaphragm relaxation group (DG), manual therapy group (MG) and control group (CG). 2 types of evaluation were carried out, one of which was pre-treatment and the other was post-treatment. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Megill-Melzack Pain Questionnaire, Headache Impact Test (HITS), and SF-36 Life Quality Scale were used. How long the attacks of patients before and after the treatment lasted and monthly attack numbers were recorded.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Willingness to participate voluntarily and having signed informed consent
• Aged between 18 and 60 years
• Diagnosed with migraine
• Not receiving migraine prophylactic treatment
• At least primary school graduate

Exclusion Criteria:

• Using antidepressant medication
• Experiencing other types of headaches alongside migraine
• Undergoing prophylactic treatment for migraine
• Showing signs of vertebral artery or internal carotid artery involvement
• Having vertigo
• Having decompensated blood pressure
• Participated in a neck physiotherapy program within the last 3 months
• Lacking the mental capacity to complete the HIT-6 scale and illiterate
• Pregnant individuals or those who became pregnant during the study period