Efficacy of Manual Therapy in Migraine

DO SOFT TISSUE TECHNIQUES HAVE A POSITIVE EFFECT ON DISABILITY AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN MIGRAINE SUFFERERS?: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of suboccipital inhibitory manual therapy treatment in migraine compared to treatment based on Myofascial Trigger Points (MTrPs) and their stretching, often being hypersensitive in patients with migraine.

Material and methods: 27 patients in two groups participated in the study: a) the control group received combined techniques based on MTrPs and bilateral stretching in the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM); b) the experimental group was applied the same techniques as those applied in the control group plus suboccipital inhibition. The treatment lasted for 8 weeks and the impact, disability and quality of life were assessed in both groups.

Introduction Migraine is a highly prevalent disorder entailing substantial costs. Manual therapy offers an attractive option as an alternative to medical treatment or used in combination therewith. Treatment focused on the soft tissues of the suboccitpital region has been studied in other types of headaches but not in migraine.

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of suboccipital inhibitory manual therapy treatment in migraine compared to treatment based on Myofascial Trigger Points (MTrPs) and their stretching, often being hypersensitive in patients with migraine.

Material and methods: 27 patients in two groups participated in the study: a) the control group received combined techniques based on MTrPs and bilateral stretching in the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM); b) the experimental group was applied the same techniques as those applied in the control group plus suboccipital inhibition. The treatment lasted for 8 weeks and the impact, disability and quality of life were assessed in both groups.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients were diagnosed according to the criteria established by the IHS

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients were excluded if they presented with other headache types, if their headache was triggered by neck movement, or if they presented with dizziness, hypertension, emotional stress, psychological disorders, cardiovascular disease or pregnancy.