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Effect of Osteopathic Intervention on Migraine
Sponsor: Escola Superior de Tecnologia da Saúde do Porto
Summary
Migraine is a common, disabling neurological condition characterized by severe, often unilateral pain accompanied by sensory symptoms like nausea and photophobia. Its pathophysiology involves activation of the trigeminovascular system, neuro-inflammation, and nervous system sensitisation. Due to the convergence of trigeminal and cervical nerves in the upper neck (C2), manual therapy may influence migraine symptoms. Osteopathic techniques, such as suboccipital inhibition and C2 manipulation, aim to reduce pain intensity and frequency by normalising mobility and reducing nociceptive stimulation. While promising, further research is needed to validate these interventions through rigorous clinical trials.
Official title: Effect of Osteopathic Intervention on Migraine: A Randomised Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 50 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
45
Start Date
2026-06
Completion Date
2026-09
Last Updated
2026-04-21
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Osteopathic Intervention Protocol
Starting by locating the C2 segment with the metacarpophalangeal joint of the second finger, whilst the other hand rested on the participant's face, homolateral inclination and contralateral rotation were induced, applying a thrust directed into rotation. In this phase, two attempts were made on each side, starting with the right side. In the second phase, the suboccipital inhibition technique was performed in the occipital region, using contact with the thenar and hypothenar eminences, positioning the distal metacarpophalangeal joints at the level of the superior nuchal line, over the suboccipital musculature, promoting gentle pressure towards the ceiling, associated with cephalic traction, lasting for three minutes.
Placebo technique
The researcher was positioned at the head of the table, making bilateral contact with the acromioclavicular joint and maintaining this position for 3 minutes, assisted by a stopwatch.