Perceived fear and exercise difficulty in patients with migraine and their association with psychosocial factors: a cross-sectional study
Abstract
Purpose Although pharmacological treatments for migraine have advanced, non-pharmacological approaches, such as exercise, offer additional benefits. However, many patients avoid physical activity due to fear of symptom exacerbation. This study aims to identify the most threatening and difficult exercises for patients with migraine and examine the relationship between exercise perceptions and factors such as physical activity levels, kinesiophobia, catastrophizing, and self-efficacy. Methods This cross-sectional study explored the perceived fear and difficulty of nine exercises shown via video demonstrations, and their association with psychological variables in patients with migraine. Participants aged 18–65 with physician-diagnosed migraines completed self-report measures of physical activity, kinesiophobia, catastrophizing, fear-avoidance beliefs, headache impact, neck disability, and self-efficacy. Results A total of 110 patients with migraine participated (88% women), with a mean age of 36 years. Chronic migraine was reported by 53% of participants. Significant differences in perceived fear and difficulty were observed across the nine exercises (p < 0.001), with jumping and spine extension rated as the most fear-inducing and difficult exercises, respectively. Beta regression models showed that the physical activity level, measured by the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF), was negatively associated with fear of jumping and…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 110 participants or records.
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