Comparison of Kinesio Taping and Myofascial Release in Cervicogenic Headache

Cervicogenic headache (CGH) is defined as a headache accompanied by neck pain, caused by a disorder in the cervical spine, bones, discs, or soft tissue elements. This study is designed as a prospective, case-control, hospital-based study. A total of 90 patients aged 18-65 years who have been suffering from CGH for at least three months and who present to the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinic of Meram State Hospital between January 2025 and January 2027 will be included in the study. Patients will be informed about the procedures, and informed consent will be obtained. The study will be conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. A detailed medical history will be taken from all participants, and a comprehensive physical examination will be performed. Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics such as age, gender, height, weight, education level, employment status, and income level will be recorded. The 90 CGH patients will be divided into three groups.Group 1 (n=30) will receive myofascial release therapy + home exercise program for four weeks, three sessions per week, totaling 12 sessions. Group 2 (n=30) will receive Kinesio taping + home exercise program for four weeks, three sessions per week, totaling 12 sessions. Group 3 (n=30) will receive only a home exercise program for four weeks, three sessions per week, totaling 12 sessions. All evaluations will be conducted by the same researcher at three time points: before treatment (baseline), at the end of treatment (week 4), and one month after the completion of treatment (week 8).The aim of this prospective clinical study is to compare the effectiveness of Kinesio taping and myofascial release therapy in the treatment of cervicogenic headache.