Cervical musculoskeletal dysfunctions in pediatric migraine: A cross-sectional study
Abstract
Background While the association between migraine, neck pain, and cervical musculoskeletal dysfunctions is well established in adults, such a relationship remains unclear in the pediatric population. This gap limits our understanding of early pathophysiological mechanisms and hinders the development of targeted interventions. Objective To assess self-reported neck pain, pressure pain threshold (PPT), global cervical range of motion (ROM), and upper cervical mobility in children and adolescents with and without migraine. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 102 participants in total (51 with migraine – MG – and 51 controls – CG), aged six to 16 years. Neck pain characteristics (presence, frequency, intensity, and duration) were recorded. Cervical ROM was measured in flexion, extension, lateral flexion, and rotation. Upper cervical mobility was evaluated using the Flexion Rotation Test (FRT), and PPT was bilaterally assessed in the sternocleidomastoid, levator scapulae, suboccipital, upper trapezius, and anterior scalene muscles. Comparisons between groups were made using Student's t-test, Mann–Whitney U test, or Chi-square test, with a significance level set at 5%. Results Compared to the control group, the MG showed a higher prevalence of neck pain (39.2% vs. 5.9%; p < 0.001) and longer average duration (19 ± 8.6 vs. 8 ± 3.4 h; p = 0.046). Reduced lateral flexion (p < 0.001) and reduced upper cervical mobility (p < 0.001) were observed in the MG. Additionally,…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 102 participants or records.
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