Introduction: Migraine is a common neurological disorder that causes great distress to individuals. In its acute phase migraine can be treated with pharmacological or non-pharmacological agents. Prophylactic medications are therefore a widely used and effective method of relieving migraine, although potential side effects must be considered. Consequently, many non-pharmacological treatment options have been proposed. One of these is exercise, which is already used to treat other chronic disorders. Recent clinical research using various exercise protocols has been shown to be effective in treating migraine, but the exact role of exercise in migraine prevention is still unclear. Possible mechanisms through which exercise positively effects migraine include opioids, the endocannabinoid system, inflammatory and psychological factors. However, direct comparisons between the effects of different exercise interventions on migraine are still lacking. Purpose: The aim of this work was to investigate and compare the effects of aerobic exercise and resistance training and to evaluate exercise as a possible option to alleviate migraine. Methods: A literature search was conducted in the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases. Six randomized controlled trials involving an aerobic or resistance training program were included in this literature review. Results: Statistically significant results were obtained in all studies, however they differed depending on the exercise program chosen. Aerobic exercise had a statistically significant effect on migraine frequency and quality of life, and, at moderate intensity, also on migraine duration and intensity as well as anxiety. Resistance training significantly reduced all migraine indices and improved quality of life along with anxiety and depression. Discussion and conclusion: Exercise as a non-pharmacological treatment option for migraine has been shown to be effective in alleviating the curse and symptoms without inducing adverse effects. Both aerobic and anaerobic exercise have been shown to have a positive effect on migraine indices, physical performance and overall well-being in individuals with migraine. Resistance training and high-intensity aerobic training were found to be the most effective among the exercises compared. Further research is needed in the future to focus on the comparison of aerobic and resistance training in migraineurs and to investigate and reduce the possible mechanisms of action of physical activities in migraine patients.
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