NCT06502951 · Alabama Physical Therapy & Acupuncture
Manipulation and Dry Needling in Patients With Cervicogenic Headache and WAD II
What this study is about
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.
View original scientific description
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.
Interventions
OTHER
Dry Needling,Thrust Manipulation
HVLA thrust manipulation to upper cervical and upper thoracic regions. Dry needling to cervicothoracic and craniofacial regions. Up to 8 treatment sessions over 4 weeks.
OTHER
Exercise,Non-thrust Mobilization
Non-thrust mobilization and exercise to upper cervical and upper thoracic regions. Up to 8 treatment sessions over 4 weeks.
Primary outcome measures
Change in Headache Intensity (Numeric Pain Rating Scale, 0-10) (Rating Score)
Time frame: Baseline, 4 weeks, 3 months, 6 months
Rating Score on 0-10 scale. Baseline score must exceed 2/10 to be included. Lower scores indicate less pain intensity. the study.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- 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.
- Diagnosis of cervicogenic headache as defined by Cervicogenic Headache International Study Group criteria.
- Headache frequency of at least one per week since the whiplash injury.
- Headache intensity of greater than 2/10 on the NPRS.
- Neck pain intensity of greater than 2/10 on the NPRS.
- Neck Disability Index score of greater than 10/50 on the NDI.
Exclusion criteria
- WAD I (neck pain, but no physical signs), WAD III (neck pain and neurological signs), WAD IV (neck pain + fracture/dislocation).
- Positive screen for cervical radiography (Canadian C-Spine Rules).
- Bilateral headaches (typical of tension type headaches).
- Diagnosis / signs \& symptoms of concussion (confusion, disorientation, or impaired consciousness; loss of memory for events immediately before or after the MVA; and one or more of the following: nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, vertigo, gait and/or postural imbalance, and impaired memory and/or concentration).
- Diagnosis of fibromyalgia.
- Presence of any of the following atherosclerotic risk factors: hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, transient ischemic attack, peripheral vascular disease, smoking, hypercholesterolemia, or hyperlipidemia.
- Red flags noted in the patient's Neck Medical Screening Questionnaire (i.e., tumor, fracture, metabolic diseases, RA, osteoporosis, prolonged history of steroid use, etc.).
- Diagnosis of cervical spinal stenosis.
- Bilateral upper extremity symptoms.
- Evidence of central nervous system involvement, to include hyperreflexia, sensory disturbances in the hand, intrinsic muscle wasting of the hands, unsteadiness during walking, nystagmus, loss of visual acuity, impaired sensation of the face, altered taste, the presence of pathological reflexes (i.e. positive Hoffman's and/or Babinski reflexes).
- Two or more positive neurologic signs consistent with nerve root compression, including any two of the following:
- Muscle weakness involving a major muscle group of the upper extremity.
- Diminished upper extremity deep tendon reflex of the biceps, brachioradialis, triceps or superficial flexors
- Diminished or absent sensation to pinprick in any UE dermatome.
- Prior surgery to the head, neck, or thoracic spine.
- Physical therapy or chiropractic treatment for neck pain and/or headache in the past 3 months.
- Any condition that might contraindicate spinal manipulative therapy or dry needling.
Where
- Montgomery, Alabama
Collaborators
Universidad Rey Juan Carlos
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 11, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations