Background Cervical spondylosis is a prevalent condition. Studies has shown that it is a leading cause for headache, which is termed cervicogenic headache (CGH). The prevlance of CGH among severe headache is 17.5%. While conventional treatments, such as physical therapy and surgery, is effective in controlling symptoms, the effect was found to be short-lasting. There is existing clinical evidence supporting traditional Chinese cervical manipulation (CCM) as a viable treatment for CGH. Objective To preliminarily assess the feasibility, safety, and effectiveness of CCM on patients with CGH, and to optimize parameters for a future large-scale trial. Method This study is a pilot randomized, controlled, single-blind trial. 84 participants will be randomized evenly to receive either CCM or sham manipulation for 4 weeks. Outcome measurements will be conducted at baseline, week 2, week 4 and week 8 on cervical functional disability, cervical range of motion, and data on headache onset and painkiller assumption. Adverse events will be recorded using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE).
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
84
Initial Assessment: The participant will lie supine while the PI will perform the CFRT to identify the side with more restricted rotation. Positioning (Left Restriction Example): The PI will support the lower jaw with the right hand and will passively rotate the neck 70-80° (or to the limit of comfort) toward the unrestricted side. Hand Placement: The right fingers will support the right C1-C3 transverse processes, while the left thumb will stabilize the left C2 transverse process. Traction and Thrust: While maintaining rotation, the PI will apply a steady traction force to open the cranio-cervical and atlanto-axial joints. Once felt, a sudden high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) pulling force will be delivered. Completion: The procedure will be repeated on the opposite side, followed by a 5-10 minute supine rest period for the participant.
Initial Positioning: Assuming a right-side rotation restriction, the PI will support the participant's lower jaw and will passively rotate the neck 70-80° toward the unrestricted side. Hand Placement: The PI will use the left fingers to support the right-side transverse processes of C4-C6 and the left thumb to support the left-side transverse process of C6. Traction Application: A steady traction force will be applied such that joint space increases are limited specifically to the C4/C5 level and below, avoiding the upper cervical region. The PI will then deliver a low-amplitude pulling force at a slower speed than the standard TCMT to prevent vertebral realignment or significant joint widening. Completion: The procedure will be repeated on the opposite side, after which the participant will rest supine for 5-10 minutes.
Hong Kong Baptist University
Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Lui Seng Chun,119 Lai Chi Kok Road, Mong Kok
Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Neck Disability Index (NDI) scoring
It is used to evaluate cervical functional disability It has good reliability and validity, reflecting the degree of limitation on living ability and the impact on quality of life. The higher the score, the more severe the symptoms.
Time frame: Baseline, week 2, week 4 and week 8
Active cervical range of motion
to evaluate the range neck flexion, extension, left and right lateral flexion, left and right rotation. The measuring instrument will be the cervical goniometer.
Time frame: Baseline, week 2, week 4 and week 8
Online headache diary:
All participants are required to complete an online headache diary daily. It will include the following items: the time of headache onset, duration, pain intensity, and the type and frequency of painkillers taken
Time frame: Baseline, week 2, week 4 and week 8
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