Effectiveness of Mobilization and Postural Correction in the Treatment of Cervicogenic Headache: Protocol for Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Context: Cervicogenic headache (CGH) is a headache that impairs a patient’s life quality and work productivity. Pharmacological management has been found to show short-term symptomatic relief with adverse effects. Objective: The objective is to evaluate the effect of spinal mobilization (SM), postural correction exercises (PC), and neural mobilization (NM), in the treatment of CGH. Methods: This study has a 1:1 allocation ratio and is a single-blind randomized controlled trial with concealed allocation conducted at the university physiotherapy department. According to the sample size calculation, we aim to recruit 140 participants. The participants are randomized into 4 groups: The SM group, the PC group, the NM group, and the control group. Headache impact test-6 is the primary end measure and the secondary end measures are neck disability index and headache diary for headache-related parameters (headache frequency, headache intensity, and headache duration). All outcomes measured will be evaluated at week 0 (baseline), after week 4 (postintervention), and after week 8 (follow-up). Statistical Analysis Used: Based on the normality of data, parametric/nonparametric tests will be applied. Results: The result will be presented in the form of a 95% confidence interval and P value. Conclusions: This is the first comprehensive randomized controlled trial evaluating the individual impact of three various physiotherapy approaches and comparing these techniques to know the best treatment options available for CGH.