Study Comparing Headache Features in Adults With Cervicogenic Headache Based on Flexion-Rotation Test Results

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying cervicogenic headache, a type of headache that may originate from the upper cervical spine and cause referred pain to the head and neck. This observational study aims to compare headache characteristics between patients who test positive or negative on the flexion-rotation test FRT at the C1-C2 level. The goal is to understand differences that could help guide more personalized treatment options, including manual therapy and dry needling targeting specific neck muscles. The study involves 100 patients diagnosed with cervicogenic headache based on established clinical criteria. Participants must have had headaches at least once a week for at least three months and limited neck mobility. They will be grouped by whether their flexion-rotation test is positive or negative. Participants will undergo a single assessment involving questionnaires and physical measurements of neck function and pain. During the study visit, researchers will measure headache intensity, frequency, duration, disability, and impact, along with neck pain and disability. Additional assessments include pressure pain thresholds, joint position error, cervical spine range of motion, motor control tests, and psychosocial factors such as pain catastrophizing and fear. All data will be collected at baseline during this one-time evaluation, with no interventions provided as part of the study.

Differences in Characteristics of Headache Patients With a Positive or Negative FRT: a Cross-sectional Comparison.