Manipulation and Dry Needling in Patients With Cervicogenic Headache and WAD II
Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
The purpose of this research is to compare two different approaches for treating patients with cervicogenic headaches associated with type II whiplash associated disorder: non-thrust mobilization and exercise versus thrust manipulation and dry needling. Physical therapists commonly use all of these techniques to treat cervicogenic headaches. This study is attempting to find out if one treatment strategy is more effective than the other.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Subacute (\> 4 weeks) or chronic type II whiplash associated disorder. Neck pain and headache following motor vehicle accident with reduced range of motion \& point tenderness. 2. Diagnosis of cervicogenic headache as defined by Cervicogenic Headache International Study Group criteria. 3. Headache frequency of at least one per week since the whiplash injury. 4. Headache intensity of greater than 2/10 on the NPRS. 5. Neck pain intensity of greater than 2/10 on the NPRS. 6. Neck Disability Index score of greater than 10/50 on the NDI. Exclusion Criteria: 1. WAD I (neck pain, but no physical signs), WAD III (neck pain and neurological signs), WAD IV (neck pain + fracture/dislocation). 2. Positive screen for cervical radiography (Canadian C-Spine Rules). 3. Bilateral headaches (typical of tension type headaches). 4. Diagnosis / signs \& symptoms of concussion (confusion, disorientation, or impaired consciousness; loss of memory for events immediately before or after