In a subset of patients, post-traumatic headache presents not with a typical migraine or tension-type pattern, but as a primary stabbing headache phenotype — a clinically distinct presentation with a targeted evidence-based approach.
This protocol addresses post-traumatic headache in patients whose predominant headache character meets the profile of a primary stabbing headache phenotype. Identifying this phenotype is the critical first step, as it drives a specific therapeutic direction that differs from standard post-traumatic headache management.
The primary clinical target is resolution of the stabbing headache episodes. Successful treatment is defined by cessation of the stabbing pattern.
The structured protocol centres on a specific anti-inflammatory agent with demonstrated effectiveness in this phenotype. The complete regimen — including dosing, sequencing, and monitoring — is available in the full protocol.
DOI: 10.1111/head.14795Digital