Comparing two techniques for treating cervicogenic headaches
Comparison of Suboccipital Muscle Inhibition Technique vs Rocabado Exercises on Cervicogenic Headache
This study is testing whether a new muscle relaxation technique works better than specific exercises for helping people aged 20 to 50 with chronic cervicogenic headaches feel better.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Riphah International University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad) |
| Trial ID | NCT06938256 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of the Suboccipital Muscle Inhibition technique compared to Rocabado exercises in treating cervicogenic headaches. Conducted at the National Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine in Islamabad, it involves a randomized control trial with 40 participants aged 20 to 50 years who have chronic cervicogenic headaches. Participants are divided into two groups, each receiving one of the interventions over a six-month period, with data collected at baseline and after two weeks using various assessment tools. The study aims to determine which method provides better relief from headache symptoms and improves quality of life.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 20 to 50 years with a history of chronic cervicogenic headaches lasting more than three months.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of headaches, serious pathologies, or contraindications to manual therapy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide effective non-pharmacological treatment options for patients suffering from cervicogenic headaches.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes for similar manual therapy techniques in headache relief, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Participants with a history of chronic CGH (\>3 months) * CGH pain intensity between 3 and 8 on NPRS * Participants who had a unilateral headache that do not shift side (ipsilateral neck pain/stiffness) * Pain at least once a week in the previous three months, chronic, episodic, and duration one hour to weeks (non-throbbing pain starts in the neck). * CGH due to cervical spine dysfunction * Neck pain followed by headache * Patients with neck stiffness and movement restriction were included. * Flexion Rotation Test results that are positive with a restriction of more than 10 degrees. Exclusion Criteria: * Participants with other types of headache migraine, sinus, tumor, neural, or temporomandibular joint issues) * Cervicogenic headache patients with mixed headache or any diagnosed serious pathology of alar ligament and vertebra basilar artery insufficiency * Any contraindications to manual and manipulative therapy (fracture, instability, osteoporosis, arthropathy, or neural symptoms) * Using analgesics or corticosteroids * Metastasis * Cardiac conditions (stroke, hypertension, or syncope) * Neurological conditions (radiculopathy, myelopathy, or disc problems) * Spinal cord problem * Previous brain and spinal cord surgery * Occlusal splints or any surgery in Temporomandibular joint area.
Where this trial is running
Islamabad
- National Institute of Rehabilitation and Medicine — Islamabad, Pakistan (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Imran Amjad, phD
- Email: imran.amjad@riphah.edu.pk
- Phone: 03324390125
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.