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Comparative Effects of Dynamic Cupping and Facilitated Positional Release in Cervicogenic Headache
Sponsor: University of Management and Technology Lahore
Summary
Cervicogenic headache (CGH) is a secondary headache disorder originating from structural and functional impairments of the cervical spine, accounting for approximately 15-20% of all chronic headaches worldwide. It is characterized by unilateral head pain referred from the osseous, discal, or soft tissue elements of the upper cervical spine, frequently accompanied by restricted cervical range of motion, myofascial tenderness, significant neck disability, and disrupted sleep quality. Due to prolonged poor posture, repetitive neck movements, and increased sedentary lifestyles, the prevalence of cervicogenic headache has increased significantly in recent years. Although various physiotherapy interventions are available for its management, identifying the most effective conservative treatment approach remains a challenge due to the multifactorial nature and complexity of the condition, highlighting the need for further research. This study therefore aims to conduct the first randomized clinical trial directly comparing the effects of Dynamic Cupping and Facilitated Positional Release across five clinically relevant, multidimensional outcomes in patients with cervicogenic headache specifically pain intensity, headache impact, cervical range of motion, neck disability, and sleep quality. The study design will be a randomized clinical trial. Non-probability Consecutive sampling technique will be used, and participants will be randomly allocated into two groups. Evaluation will be done using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Headache Impact Test (HIT-6), Universal Goniometer (UG), Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Group A will receive Dynamic Cupping therapy, while Group B will receive Facilitated Positional Release technique. Both groups will receive three treatment sessions per week over four weeks, totaling 12 sessions, alongside a standardized baseline conventional therapy comprising hot pack application and cervical muscle stretches and Isometrics. Measurements of all outcome variables will be taken at baseline and after 4 weeks. The collected data will be analyzed using SPSS version 25.
Official title: COMPARATIVE EFFECTS OF DYNAMIC CUPPING AND FACILITATED POSITIONAL RELEASE ON PAIN, HEADACHE IMPACT, CERVICAL ROM, NECK DISABILITY, AND SLEEP QUALITY IN PATIENTS WITH CERVICOGENIC HEADACHE
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
20 Years - 45 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
41
Start Date
2026-10-27
Completion Date
2026-12-31
Last Updated
2026-11-02
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Dynamic Cupping
Dynamic Cupping was applied using small sized silicone cups with a gliding technique over massage oil or gel. The target areas included the suboccipital region, upper trapezius and levator scapulae with suction maintained at a mild to moderate level according to patient tolerance. Intervention was delivered 3 sessions per week over 4 weeks, totaling 12 treatment sessions.
Facilitated Positional Release technique
Facilitated Positional Release technique will be applied targeting tender points in the suboccipital region, upper trapezius and levator scapulae. The affected area will be placed in a position of ease to reduce tension, followed by the application of a facilitating force such as compression or rotation for 3-5 seconds to further reduce tissue tension, with the patient positioned supine throughout. Intervention was delivered 3 times per week for 4 weeks, comprising 12 total treatment sessions.
Locations (1)
UMT
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan