Assessment of chiropractic intervention influence on pain and life quality in cervicogenic headache afflicted office workers: a review

Abstract

Cervicogenic headache, characterized by referred pain perceived in the head but originating from the cervical spine, is a prevalent non-migraine headache impacting a significant proportion of the global population, particularly office workers. Recent studies have identified a co-occurrence of cervicogenic headaches with neck pain, often exacerbated by long hours of stationary sitting and computer use common in desk jobs. Despite the growing evidence supporting the effectiveness of chiropractic treatment in mitigating head and neck pain, a distinct gap persists in the literature concerning chiropractic interventions specifically targeting office workers suffering from cervicogenic headaches. This review aims to scrutinize the current literature on the effectiveness of chiropractic interventions on pain management and life quality improvement for office workers afflicted with cervicogenic headaches. Specifically, the review will delve into high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) thrust maneuvers, a widely employed strategy in spinal manipulative therapy, an extension of chiropractic treatment. In the context of cervicogenic headaches, the link between the Rectus Capitis Posterior Minor (RCPM) muscle and the Dura Mater, and how neck strains affecting this connection can instigate headaches, will be explored. Through the comprehensive evaluation of existing literature and studies, this review seeks not only to elucidate the potential of chiropractic treatment in improving the life quality of office workers suffering from cervicogenic headaches, but also to stimulate further research in this essential yet under-explored area of study.