What non-pharmacological treatments are effective for managing headaches in patients with a history of medication overuse?

Effective non-pharmacological treatments for managing headaches in patients with a history of medication overuse include the use of a headache diary to monitor headache frequency, triggers, and treatment impact, which supports active patient involvement in management.

Withdrawal of the overused medication is the primary treatment, accompanied by close follow-up and support during the withdrawal phase to manage potential worsening of symptoms and withdrawal effects.

Additional non-drug approaches include consideration of acupuncture, physiotherapy, regular exercise, and biofeedback techniques, which may help reduce headache frequency and intensity by addressing muscle tension and associated factors.

Assessment and management of associated conditions such as stress, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances are also important components of non-pharmacological management.