Short-Term Efficacy of Static Isometric Neck Exercise and Cervical Muscle Stretch among College Students with Cervicogenic Headache

Abstract

Introduction: Cervicogenic headache, distinct from migraine or tension headache, is characterised by pain localised in any cranial region, arising from a nociceptive origin musculoskeletal tissue innervated by cranial nerves.
Objective: The objective was to compare the effectiveness of cervical muscle stretch and isometric exercise on pain and neck Range of motion among subjects with cervicogenic headache. This can optimise rehabilitation strategies, so patient outcomes can be improved, and protocols can be made more efficient.
Methodology: A total of 60 participants were included in the study based on the inclusion criteria and were divided into 2 groups, A and B. Then static isometric exercise and cervical muscle stretch were applied to the subjects and reassessment values were noted. They were assessed for pain and neck ROM using the Numerical Rating Scale and goniometric measurement. The duration of the study was 12 weeks.
Results: The results obtained for Group B who underwent cervical muscle stretch showed a greater mean difference than Group A (static isometric exercise). Pain levels in Group B decreased by a mean difference of 4.06 points on the NRS (p < 0.05). Neck extension and lateral flexion improvement in Group B was observed to be significant with mean differences of -28.76 and -26.66 in goniometric scores (p < 0.05) than in Group A (static
isometric exercise).
Conclusion: It is concluded that cervical muscle stretching is more effective in improving pain and neck range of motion among subjects with cervicogenic headaches.

How to cite this article:
S Kaviya, Vardhini C I, Haribabu L, Devi R N,
Purushothaman S. Short-Term Efficacy of
Static Isometric Neck Exercise and Cervical
Muscle Stretch among College Students with
Cervicogenic Headache. J. HealthCare Edu. &
Med. Inform. 2024;11(1&2):12-17.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/2455.9199.202403