More Recent Concepts on Treatment of Headache

Headaches in Children

“…(It should be routine now to examine the neck physically and the X-rays of the cervical spine in every headache in children as well as in adults ). [1][2][3][4] Eyes were checked for possible refractive error or ocular disturbance. Many times, repeated examinations were carried out at frequent intervals especially in those children who had headaches of short duration.…”

“…However, at this point it must be emphasized again that the physical examination is not completed until the neck is examined physically and X-rays of the cervical spine studied, because the neck must be considered prime suspect in every headache case of unknown origin in children as well as in adults. 4 THE NECK MUST be examined for any muscle spasm, restriction of movement or localized tenderness especially over the lateral side of the cervical spine either unilateral or bilateral. Roentgenographic examination may reveal characteristic loss or reversal of the normal lordotic curve of the cervical spine ( Fig.…”

“…Nevertheless, the occurrence of headaches of cervical origin very often may be delayed for days, weeks or months after the original accident. [1][2][3][4][6][7][8][9][10]…”

“…In some cases, where the child is very apprehensive or the symptoms are not relieved by office traction, it may be necessary to hospitalize the child for intermittent traction for 7-14 days and then complete treatment at the office. [1][2][3][4] Children tolerate traction extremely well once the apprehensiveness and fear are removed.…”