Assessing pain sensitivity in tension-type headache patients
Are Signs of Central Sensitization Present in Tension-type Headache?
University Ghent · NCT06323720
This study is testing whether people with tension-type headaches have different pain sensitivity compared to healthy individuals to better understand their condition.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 66 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Ghent (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Ghent, East-Flanders) |
| Trial ID | NCT06323720 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to evaluate the presence of central sensitization in patients suffering from tension-type headaches. Participants will complete baseline questionnaires and undergo quantitative sensory testing to measure pain sensitivity. The study will compare the results of tension-type headache patients with healthy controls to determine if central sensitization is a distinguishing factor in this condition. The findings could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of tension-type headaches.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 with a confirmed diagnosis of tension-type headache.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of headaches or conditions affecting central nervous system sensitivity may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of tension-type headaches and lead to improved treatment strategies for patients.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on central sensitization in various pain conditions, this specific approach in tension-type headaches is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Diagnosis of tension headache according to globally recognized criteria (ICHD-3) or verified by a physician 2. Diagnosis of tension headache confirmed by a questionnaire (Headache Screening Questionnaire) 3. Not pregnant or given birth in the past year since a change in hormone levels can affect pain experience 4. Adults between the ages of 18 and 65 5. Proficient in the Dutch language Exclusion Criteria: 1. Other diagnosis of headache or a mixed form 2. Other existing condition involving central nervous system sensitivity 3. Other structural neurological syndromes 4. Any condition involving the brain in the past 5. Procedure on the head, neck, or shoulder in the past 3 years 6. Currently suffering from a psychiatric condition 7. Athletes competing at a competitive level 8. Not proficient in the Dutch language 9. Currently pregnant.
Where this trial is running
Ghent, East-Flanders
- Ghent University — Ghent, East-Flanders, Belgium (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jessica Van Oosterwijck, Prof — Revalidatiewetenschappen en kinesitherapie
- Study coordinator: Jessica Van Oosterwijck, Prof
- Email: jessica.vanoosterwijck@ugent.be
- Phone: +32 9 332 69 19
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Tension-Type Headache