Effect of SNAG Mobilisation Combined with Kinetic Control Exercises for Treating Cervicogenic Headache: A Case Report

Abstract

Aims: The study aims to evaluate the effect of Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glide (SNAG) mobilisation combined with kinetic control exercises on the management of cervicogenic headache and headache-related disability. Case Presentation: This study was conducted as a single-patient case report following the CARE guidelines over a period of four weeks. A 23-year-old female diagnosed with cervicogenic headache received a combined intervention of Sustained Natural Apophyseal Glide (SNAG) mobilisation and Kinetic Control exercises, including deep cervical flexor training, scapular setting, and postural correction exercises. Treatment was administered in five sessions per week for four weeks. Pain intensity and headache-related disability were assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6). Outcome measures were recorded at baseline (Day 0) and post-intervention (Day 28). Results: Post-intervention, on day 28, there was a significant decrease in pain levels (VAS 7 on day 0 to VAS 2 on day 28), along with a decrease in the HIT-6 score (66 on day 0 to 44 on day 28). Conclusion: Through this study, it can be seen that the combination of SNAG mobilisation therapy and Kinetic Control exercises is effective in decreasing pain and headache-related disability by promoting functional improvement in a patient with cervicogenic headache. This multimodal treatment approach focuses not only on correcting joint movement but also on muscle control to improve quality of life.