Active and Passive Cervical Flexion-rotation Tests

A Comparison of Range of Motion During the Active and Passive Flexion-rotation Tests in Subjects Patients With Cervicogenic Headache

Motion limitations have been previously reported in people with headaches originating from the neck/cervicogenic headaches. A test involving flexing and rotating the neck has been found useful to diagnose this type of headache. This observational study investigates this neck motion test when performed actively by the patient and passively by the examiner, then compares the results of motion attained.

Inclusion Criteria:

• One-sided headaches
• Headaches caused by neck movement or sustained head positioning
• Neck, shoulder, or arm pain
• Intermittent headaches at least one headache per week for greater than 2 months
• Headaches of moderate intensity

Exclusion Criteria:

• A diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis
• Current pregnancy
• International Headache Society criteria for other headache forms (such as tension or migraine)
• Cervical radiculopathy
• Treatment for headaches by a physical therapist, chiropractor, massage therapist, or osteopath in the past month
• Positive test for vertebral artery insufficiency or cranial-vertebral ligament instability