In reviewing the literature evidence regarding chiropractic management of headache, it becomes apparent that some studies are specific to chiropractic manipulation (adjustment) while others refer to manipulation or mobilization performed by other health professionals.
Taken as a whole, there is general agreement through systematic reviews that there is value in utilizing manipulation for patients with headache.
Some of the results and reviews are specific to specific headache types. Following are some summaries:
Cochrane Review of the Literature[1]
1. Bronfort, G., et al., Non-invasive physical treatments for chronic/recurrent headache. Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2004(3): p. CD001878.
2. Nelson, C.F., et al., The efficacy of spinal manipulation, amitriptyline and the combination of both therapies for the prophylaxis of migraine headache. J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 1998. 21(8): p. 511-9.
3. Boline, P.D., et al., Spinal manipulation vs. amitriptyline for the treatment of chronic tension-type headaches: a randomized clinical trial.J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 1995. 18(3): p. 148-54.
4. Haas, M., et al., Dose response for chiropractic care of chronic cervicogenic headache and associated neck pain: a randomized pilot study. J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 2004. 27(9): p. 547-53.