The Role Of Fascia And Breathing Exercises In The Treatment Of Cervicogenic Headache

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Thoracolumbar Fascia Exercise: The exercise program will consist of mobility, activation, and stabilization exercises targeting the thoracolumbar fascia. The intervention is designed to improve fascial mobility, enhance force transmission, and optimize neuromuscular coordination of the trunk. Exercises will be performed under supervision, consisting of three sessions per week for twelve weeks.

Breathing Exercise: The breathing exercise program will consist of techniques focusing on diaphragmatic breathing and breath control. This intervention aims to improve breathing patterns, increase respiratory efficiency, and reduce overactivity of accessory muscles. The exercises will be performed under supervision, three sessions per week for twelve weeks.

Conventional treatment: Participants in this group will receive a single initial session of conventional treatment, including postural education, cervical range of motion exercises, and stretching and strengthening exercises targeting the cervical and surrounding musculature. Following this session, participants will be prescribed a structured home exercise program to be performed independently for 12 weeks without supervised sessions. Participants will be asked to adhere to the home program throughout the intervention period. Outcome assessments will be conducted at baseline, 12 weeks (post-intervention), and 24 weeks (follow-up).

Study summary

This study aims to investigate the effect of specific exercise programs on individuals suffering from cervicogenic headaches, a type of headache originating from neck problems. While traditional physiotherapy is the standard approach, this research examines whether the addition of specific "fascia-focused" exercises or "breathing exercises" provides improved relief.

Fascia is a thin, protective membrane layer surrounding every muscle and organ in the body. In this study, participants will be divided into three groups. All participants will receive standard neck exercises and posture training. One group will perform dynamic exercises targeting the body's connective tissue (fascia) to improve flexibility and coordination. Another group will practice specific breathing techniques to help reduce muscle tension and stress-related triggers. The exercises will be administered to participants for 12 weeks.

It is expected that fascia exercises and breathing exercises will have positive effects on headaches as a result of the applied treatments.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Change in Headache Impact Test (HIT-6) score from baseline to 12 weeks (post-intervention) — Baseline, 12 weeks (post-intervention)
  The Headache Impact Test (HIT-6) is a validated 6-item questionnaire used to assess the impact of headache on daily life. Scores range from 36 to 78, with higher scores indicating greater headache-related disability.

Trial sites (1)

More Sehit Prof. Dr. Ilhan Varank Sancaktepe Training and Research Hospital trials in Turkey

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