Effects of muscle release techniques on cervicogenic headache management
"Additional Effects of Sternocleidomastoid Release Along With Suboccipital Muscle Release in Management of Cervicogenic Headache'
This study is testing if combining specific muscle release techniques with regular physical therapy can help young adults with cervicogenic headaches feel better and move their necks more easily.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 54 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Foundation University Islamabad Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Rawalpindi, Punjab Province) |
| Trial ID | NCT06731114 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-45 experiencing cervicogenic headaches with specific symptoms and positive diagnostic tests.
Not a fit: Patients with headaches of non-cervical origin or those with significant cervical spine pathologies will likely not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a more effective treatment option for patients suffering from cervicogenic headaches.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited data on this specific combination of techniques, similar manual therapy approaches have shown promise in treating cervicogenic headaches.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
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 this trial is running
Rawalpindi, Punjab Province
- 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
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.