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The effect of mobilization on cervical headaches
S K Schoensee1, G Jensen, G Nicholson
1Baptist Medical Centers at Montclair, Birmingham, AL, USA.
The Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy
|April 1, 1995
Summary
Mobilization of the upper cervical spine effectively reduced the frequency, duration, and intensity of headaches originating from the neck. This therapeutic approach demonstrated positive outcomes for patients suffering from cervicogenic headaches.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Physical Therapy
- Pain Management
Background:
- Cervicogenic headaches are frequently managed with spinal mobilization techniques.
- The upper cervical spine and occiput-C3 region are key areas targeted for headache relief.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the therapeutic effect of upper cervical spine mobilization on cervicogenic headaches.
- To assess the impact of this intervention on headache frequency, duration, and intensity.
Main Methods:
- An A-B-A single-case design was employed with ten subjects diagnosed with cervicogenic headaches.
- Headache logs tracked frequency, duration, and intensity across baseline (A), intervention (B), and follow-up (A) phases.
- The intervention phase involved 9-12 mobilization sessions over 3-4 weeks.
Main Results:
- Visual analysis indicated a decrease in headache frequency, duration, and intensity during the intervention phase compared to baseline.
- Sustained improvements in headache frequency were observed post-intervention.
- Analysis of variance statistically supported the observed therapeutic effects.
Conclusions:
- Mobilization of the upper cervical spine demonstrated a significant therapeutic effect on cervicogenic headaches.
- The findings support mobilization as a viable treatment option for reducing headache burden in affected individuals.