Ultrasound-Guided Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment of the Third Occipital Nerve for Adults With Cervicogenic Headache Evaluating Pain Relief and Safety

What this Trial Is About

Cervicogenic headache is a chronic type of headache that originates from the cervical spine, especially involving the third occipital nerve at the C2-3 zygapophyseal joint. This condition often leads to ongoing pain, limits daily function, and reduces quality of life. Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness and safety of ultrasound-guided pulsed radiofrequency treatment targeting this nerve to better understand its role in managing cervicogenic headache. Participants who have been diagnosed with cervicogenic headache and respond positively to a diagnostic nerve block will receive pulsed radiofrequency treatment. This minimally invasive procedure uses ultrasound guidance to apply electrical pulses to the third occipital nerve, aiming to reduce pain without causing permanent nerve damage. The treatment follows standard clinical protocols and is given once, with follow-up visits at 1, 2, and 3 months after the procedure. During the study, participants will undergo assessments including pain intensity measured by the Visual Analog Scale, headache frequency, medication use, and effects on daily activities and sleep. Safety monitoring will record any adverse events related to both the diagnostic block and the pulsed radiofrequency treatment. The main goal is to observe changes in pain intensity over time, with secondary measures assessing headache days and patient satisfaction throughout the three-month follow-up period.

Effectiveness of Third Occipital Nerve Pulsed Radiofrequency in Cervicogenic Headache