Introduction: Tension-type headache is one of the most common primary headaches with a high socioeconomic impact on both individuals and society. It causes pain and the development of musculoskeletal disorders that affect the social or occupational environment and the quality of life of the individual. Manual therapy is a commonly used method in clinical settings to reduce the symptoms and impairments associated with tension-type headache. Purpose: The aim of the diploma work was to present the effects of manual therapy on pain, pressure pain threshold, range of motion, functional and emotional disability, and quality of life of the individual with tension-type headache. Methods: English-language literature published between 2011 and 2021 was searched in PubMed, PEDro, and ScienceDirect databases. The search was conducted with key words: tension-type headache, manual therapy, tension headache, manual therapy effects. To select methodologically qualitative research, we summarized how the chosen studies were graded on the PEDro scale. Results: We included eight studies in the analysis. The studies were freely available in full text. The use of manual therapy effectively reduced frequency and pain. The greatest improvements were seen in groups that used manipulative techniques alone or in combination with other techniques. Reduction of pain was also achieved with neuro-mobilization techniques, soft tissue mobilization, and myofascial release. Pressure pain threshold also improved but results regarding the duration of the effect were not consistent. The use of joint manipulation or mobilization and soft tissue techniques improved the range of motion of the cervical spine. Manual therapy techniques had a positive effect on functional and emotional disability, quality of work life, and reduced negative psychosocial symptoms. Discussion and Conclusion: In the studies analysed, the authors reported the effectiveness of manual therapy in reducing pain, increasing cervical spine range of motion, and pressure pain threshold. It also has positive effects on individual disability, psychosocial symptoms, and quality of work life. The most effective approach is a combination of different manual techniques. Further studies with a larger number of subjects are needed to determine the true effects.
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