In 2007, a study conducted by Chen Li, et. al., the effectiveness of manipulation treatment and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) for alleviating cervicogenic headache was compared. Cervicogenic headache, characterized by pain originating from the cervical spine, is a common condition affecting many individuals.

Seventy patients with cervicogenic headache were randomly assigned to either receive manipulation treatment or TENS treatment. Both treatments were administered every other day for a total of 40 days. Prior to treatment initiation and four weeks after completion, various parameters including headache severity (measured using the numeric rating scale, NRS), frequency, duration, and range of motion (ROM) of the cervical spine were assessed and compared.

Results indicated no significant differences in NRS scores, headache frequency, duration, or ROM between the two groups prior to treatment initiation. However, following treatment, the manipulation group experienced a significant decrease in headache NRS scores, frequency, and duration (p < 0.01), while the TENS group only showed a significant decrease in NRS scores (p < 0.05). ROM scores remained unchanged in both groups.

Furthermore, the manipulation treatment group demonstrated a significantly higher response rate (94.5%) compared to the TENS treatment group (64.5%) (p < 0.05).

In conclusion, manipulation treatment was found to be an effective method for relieving cervicogenic headache. These findings provide valuable insights into the management of this condition and may help guide treatment decisions for healthcare professionals and patients alike.

Reference: Li, C., Zhang, X. L., Ding, H., Tao, Y. Q., & Zhan, H. S. (2007). Comparative study on effects of manipulation treatment and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on patients with cervicogenic headache. Zhong xi yi jie he xue bao= Journal of Chinese Integrative Medicine, 5(4), 403-406.