Treatment of Post-traumatic Headaches in Children: A Systematic Review

Semin Pediatr Neurol. 2021 Dec:40:100935. doi: 10.1016/j.spen.2021.100935. Epub 2021 Oct 6.

Abstract

Post-traumatic headache is a secondary headache disorder beginning within 7 days of head injury. We conducted a systematic review of the evidence for treatment of post-traumatic headache in children. Of 2169 unique articles screened, 12 were included. Most studies pertained to headaches after concussion. The authors of seven studies examined the effect of medications, 4 studied nonpharmacological therapies, and 1 studied the reduction of medication usage. Much of the evidence came from retrospective chart reviews, had low level of evidence, and had fair risk of bias. High-quality randomized controlled treatment trials are needed to guide the clinical management of this condition.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Concussion*
  • Child
  • Headache
  • Humans
  • Post-Traumatic Headache* / diagnosis
  • Post-Traumatic Headache* / etiology
  • Post-Traumatic Headache* / therapy
  • Retrospective Studies