A Randomized Trial of Cervical Stabilization Exercise Training via Telerehabilitation for Migraine

Abstract

Purpose: To compare the effects of cervical stabilization exercise training via telerehabilitation (CSET-T) in addition to standard treatment on pain, forward head posture, cervical mobility, muscle performance, functional status, sleep quality, and quality of life in individuals with migraine in comparison to the standard treatment alone. Methods: The control group (n = 20) received standard treatment alone (medication+recommendations). The stabilization group (n = 20) was given CSET-T in addition to standard treatment 3 days a week for 8 weeks. Pain characteristics were assessed by using a pain diary, whereas forward head posture and cervical mobility were measured using a goniometer, cervical muscle performance (CMP) by using a pressure biofeedback unit, functional status by using the Migraine Disability Assessment Scale (MIDAS), sleep quality by using the Jenkins Sleep Scale (JSS), and quality of life by using the Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6). Results: Given the group-time interaction, it was found that pain frequency, intensity, duration, MIDAS, JSS, and HIT-6 scores decreased more significantly in the stabilization group when compared to the control group (p < .05). Moreover, the craniovertebral angle, cervical range of motions, and CMP values increased significantly more in the stabilization group (p < .05). It was found that there was no statistically significant difference between the groups in terms of compliance with standard treatment (p = .665). Conclusions: The study revealed that CSET-T in addition to standard treatment is superior to standard treatment alone in reducing pain, improving forward head posture, cervical mobility, muscle performance, functional status, and quality of life in individuals with migraine. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.