Cervicogenic Headache Dose-Response

Dose-Response of Manipulation for Cervicogenic Headache

This study will determine the number of visits to a chiropractor for spinal manipulation and light massage necessary for the optimal relief of cervicogenic headache (headache with associated neck pain). Effectiveness of care will also be determined.

Inclusion Criteria:

• chronic cervicogenic headache
• threshold pain level
• threshold headache frequency
• independently ambulatory
• English literate
• candidate for spinal manipulation

Exclusion Criteria:

• contraindication to thrust spinal manipulation or massage
• most other headache types
• Recent manual/exercise therapy from licensed provider for head/neck
• threshold pain medication use
• pregnancy
• involvement with another pain study
• suspicion of unmanaged depression
• most cancers
• hypertension (at least stage II)
• complicating neurological/spinal conditions
• pre-randomization noncompliance or cannot/will not comply with protocols
• health-related litigation, claims, or disability compensation