Effects of muscle release techniques on cervicogenic headache management

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized control trial aims to evaluate the additional effects of sternocleidomastoid release combined with suboccipital muscle release in treating cervicogenic headaches. Cervicogenic headaches are secondary headaches caused by dysfunction in the cervical spine, particularly at the C1-C2 level, leading to significant disability. The study will involve participants aged 18-45 who experience specific headache characteristics and will assess the effectiveness of these manual therapy techniques alongside conventional physical therapy. The goal is to improve cervical range of motion and reduce headache symptoms.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria

* Participants will be included according to international classification of headache criteria which includes:
* Headache with neck stiffness
* Headache at least once a month in the last 3 months
* Headache with at least 4 score in Numeric Pain Rating Scale(NPRS)
* Unilateral headache with no shift of side
* Positive flexion rotation test (Rotation restriction is greater than 10 degrees)
* C1-C2 dysfunction
* Headache precipitated by sustained neck movements,myofacial trigger points palpation in neck
* Age group 18-45
* Both male and female

Exclusion Criteria:

* Cervical spondylosis
* Headache of non-cervical origin
* Dizziness or visual disturbance
* Cervical radiculopathy/ nerve root involvement/ disc herniation
* Cervical instability/ fracture
* Vertebrobasilar insufficiency
* Thoracic outlet syndrome
* Cervical spine surgery
* Cervical spondylolisthesis
* Spinal infection or tumors
* Osteoporosis
* meningitis
* subarachnoid hemorrhage

Where it's running

• Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
  Rawalpindi, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Ayesha Arshad, MS-MSKPT
• Email: aesharshad4200@gmail.com
• Phone: 03315314699

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

• Post Isometric Relaxation vs Reciprocal Inhibition for Cervicogenic Headache

  This study tests whether two gentle neck muscle techniques, post isometric relaxation and reciprocal inhibition, help people with cervicogenic headache more than a standard physical therapy routine.

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• Kaltenborn vs Maitland Mobilization for Cervicogenic Headache

  This trial tests whether Kaltenborn mobilization helps people with cervicogenic headache more than Maitland mobilization.

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• Physical profile of cervicogenic headache vs neck pain and healthy people

  This observational study tests whether posture, grip strength, muscle stiffness, elasticity, and pressure sensitivity differ among people with cervicogenic headache, chronic neck pain, and healthy controls.

  Recruiting Istanbul Medipol University Hospital · Istanbul, Sefaköy · NCT07776275

• Osteopathic manipulation versus physiotherapy for cervicocranial symptoms

  This will test whether osteopathic manipulative treatment or standard physiotherapy reduces dizziness, headaches, and neck pain better in adults with cervicocranial dysfunction.

  Recruiting International Osteopathic Academy, Milan · Pristina, Pejton · NCT07555873

• Comparing two hands-on neck therapies for cervicogenic headache

  This will try Mulligan mobilization and myofascial release, each with a home exercise program, to see which helps adults aged 18–65 who have had cervicogenic (neck-origin) headache for at least three months.

  Recruiting Konya Beyhekim Training and Research Hospital · Konya · NCT07508410

• Third occipital nerve pulsed radiofrequency for cervicogenic headache

  This trial will test whether ultrasound-guided pulsed radiofrequency of the third occipital nerve reduces pain in adults with cervicogenic headache who responded to a diagnostic nerve block.

  Recruiting Ankara City Hospital Bilkent · Ankara, Ankara · NCT07366060

How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.