Abstract
M.Tech. (Chiropractic)
Purpose: A correlation between cervicogenic headache, upper cervical spine joint
dysfunction and therapeutic ultrasound exists. The aim of this study was to determine
whether chiropractic manipulation in conjunction with ultrasound therapy over the restricted
segments of the upper cervical spine would be a more effective treatment protocol in patients
suffering from cervicogenic headaches with regards to the perception of pain caused by their
headache, the effect it had on their daily living, and cervical range of motion. Treatment was
aimed at the upper cervical spine segments (C0- C3) as nociception arising from almost any
structure innervated by the upper four cervical nerves may refer to the head, resulting in
headaches and therapeutic ultrasound may aid in the relaxation of muscle tissues
subsequently decreasing muscle spasm and pain and improving joint motion.
Method: This study consisted of two groups. Both Groups 1 and 2 consisted of 15
participants each presenting with cervicogenic headaches. The participants were between
the ages of 18 and 50 years. The participants were thoroughly examined and assessed
according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria as well as a case history, full physical
examination and cervical spine regional examination. Group 1 received chiropractic
manipulation to the restricted segments of the upper cervical spine only. Group 2 received
chiropractic manipulation and ultrasound therapy of the restricted segments of the upper
cervical spine.
Procedure: Participants were seen seven times over a three week period. They were treated
twice a week for three weeks where a seventh follow-up visit followed. Subjective and
objective measurements were taken on the first, fourth and seventh visits. Subjective
measurements consisted of the Numerical Pain Rating Scale and Headache Disability Index.
Objective measurements included cervical spine range of motion which was measured with
the Cervical Range of Motion device in full cervical spine flexion, full cervical spine extension,
right and left cervical spine lateral flexion and right and left cervical spine rotation.
Results: Regarding subjective measurements based on the Numerical Pain Rating Scale,
a statistically significant difference was found with Groups 1 and 2 individually over time. No
statistically significant difference was found between the two groups overtime. However...