Which test is considered the best for diagnosing cervicalgia headache (CGH)?

Which test is considered the best for diagnosing cervicalgia headache (CGH)?

• A. Cervical flexion rotation test
• B. Shoulder abduction test
• C. Spurling's test
• D. Distracted cervical extension test

Answer: (A)

The cervical flexion rotation test is recognized as the most effective diagnostic tool for cervicogenic headache (CGH) due to its focus on assessing the range of motion and the mobility of the cervical spine, particularly at the atlantoaxial joint. This test evaluates the ability of the cervical spine to flex and rotate while looking for any restriction or reproduction of headache symptoms. In cervicogenic headaches, dysfunction in the cervical spine, particularly in the upper cervical region, is common, which can lead to referred pain that mimics headache pain. By measuring the rotational range of motion at the cervical spine, the test can help clinicians determine if these specific mechanical issues are contributing to the headaches. The effectiveness of the cervical flexion rotation test in identifying CGH is supported by research showing that limitations in rotation accompany such headaches, making this test a primary choice for diagnosis in clinical settings.

The cervical flexion rotation test is recognized as the most effective diagnostic tool for cervicogenic headache (CGH) due to its focus on assessing the range of motion and the mobility of the cervical spine, particularly at the atlantoaxial joint. This test evaluates the ability of the cervical spine to flex and rotate while looking for any restriction or reproduction of headache symptoms.

In cervicogenic headaches, dysfunction in the cervical spine, particularly in the upper cervical region, is common, which can lead to referred pain that mimics headache pain. By measuring the rotational range of motion at the cervical spine, the test can help clinicians determine if these specific mechanical issues are contributing to the headaches.

The effectiveness of the cervical flexion rotation test in identifying CGH is supported by research showing that limitations in rotation accompany such headaches, making this test a primary choice for diagnosis in clinical settings.