The purpose of this research is to compare two different approaches for treating patients with tension-type headaches: thrust Manipulation, electric dry Needling and exercise Vs. non-thrust mobilization, soft-tissue mobilization, exercise and TENS. Physical therapists commonly use all of these techniques to treat tension-type headaches. This study is attempting to find out if one treatment strategy is more effective than the other.
At least 10 episodes of headache occurring on 1- 14 days per month on average for >3 months (12 and <180 days per year)
Headache lasting from 30 minutes to 7 days
Bilateral location
Pressing or tightening (non-pulsating) quality
Patient presents with other primary and/or secondary headache
Headache occurring on 15 days per month in a patient with a pre-existing headache disorder
Regular overuse for >3 months of one of more drug that can be taken for acute and/or symptomatic treatment of headache
Not better accounted for by another headache diagnosis
Alabama Physical Therapy & Acupuncture
Lead sponsor
Universidad Rey Juan Carlos
Collaborator