Instrument Based Fascial Abrasion Versus Myofascial Release Technique in Cervicogenic Headache Patients

Effects of Instrument Based Fascial Abrasion Versus Myofascial Release Technique in Patients Having Cervicogenic Headache

Study will be randomized clinical trial. Data will be collected from non probability consecutive sampling technique. Total 44 participants from Rafiqa Hospital and District Headquarter (DHQ) Sargodha will be selected and randomly allocated to two different groups i.e Group A and Group B. Group A will be treated with Instrument assisted Fascial Abrasion and Conventional Therapy for 5 minutes, 6 sessions (3 sessions per week) (12) while Group B will be treated with Myofascial Release Technique and Conventional Therapy for 2 to 3 minutes, 5-7 repetitions and 3 sessions per week on alternate days were given for 6 weeks. NPRS, MOS-36, NDI will be used as outcome measuring tool before and after treatment. Data will be analyzed by using Statistical package for social sciences 25.

Cervicogenic headache is a symptomatic headache characterized by chronic, hemi cranial pain syndrome in which pain sensations originates in cervical spine and soft tissues of the neck and basically referred to head. Cervicogenic headache originates in the upper cervical region, and the headache mechanism involves nociceptive structures such as the upper cervical spinal nerves, ganglia, disks, facet joints, muscles, and ligaments. Consequently, the anatomical structures innervated by cervical roots C1-C3 are potential sources of Cervicogenic headache.

Myofascial Release (MFR) is a therapeutic technique that uses gentle pressure and stretching (in both forms of direct and indirect approaches) with the intention of restoring decrease pain, optimizing length and facilitating the release of fascial restrictions caused by injury, stress, repetitive use, etc. There are some studies about MFR and its effects which include: increase extensibilities of soft tissues, increase ROM, improves joint biomechanics, increases temperature of fascia, increases blood circulation to the muscles and decreases pain and muscles tone significantly.

Although; a lot of remedies such as physiotherapy, electrotherapy, exercises therapy and spinal mobilization are used for cervicogenic headache, but sub-occipital MFR for Cervicogenic headache has not been studied specifically. Another technique used for cervicogenic headache includes Fascial Abrasion Technique tool that is a revolutionary tool that can quickly and effectively loosen muscle tissue/fascia. It improves range and quality of movement.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients having headaches with neck stiffness and pain.
• Headache for the past 3 months at least once per week.
• Positive flexion rotation test and restriction greater than 10°
• Patient aged 18-66 years old.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Headache not of cervical origin.
• Physiotherapy or chiropractic treatment in the past 3 months.
• Headache with autonomic involvement, dizziness and visual disturbance.
• Congenital conditions of Cervical spine