Osteopathic Manual Therapy (OMT) and Brain Structure and Function in Primary Headache Patients: a Pilot Study
Launched by EDWARD VIA VIRGINIA COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE · Feb 19, 2025
Trial Information
Current as of June 27, 2025
Not yet recruiting
Keywords
ClinConnect Summary
This clinical trial is studying the effects of Osteopathic Manual Therapy (OMT) on patients with chronic primary headaches, such as migraines, tension headaches, and cluster headaches. Researchers want to understand how OMT might change the way the brain processes pain and help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. By examining changes in brain structure and function, the study aims to provide valuable information on how OMT can be an effective treatment option for those suffering from these types of headaches.
To participate in the trial, individuals must be between the ages of 18 and 65 and have a diagnosis of primary headaches, experiencing at least one headache per month for the past year. Those who have fewer than six headaches a year may be eligible to join the control group. Participants will receive OMT and undergo brain scans to help researchers learn more about how this therapy affects headache-related brain changes. It’s important to note that individuals with certain medical conditions or recent treatments will not be eligible for this study.
Gender
ALL
Eligibility criteria
- Inclusion Criteria:
- • current diagnosis of primary headache (migraine, tension-type, cluster) from a healthcare provider
- • have experienced at least one headache episode a month for the previous 1 year (or longer)
- • age of PH onset was less than 50 years, currently taking medication for headaches.
- Exclusion Criteria:
- • presence of headaches due to some other underlying medical condition (secondary headaches)
- • traumatic brain injury
- • fibromyalgia, epilepsy
- • diagnosis of a neurodegenerative disorder
- • history of brain tumor or cancer
- • history of cervical radiculopathy (pinched nerve in the neck)
- • currently undergoing manual therapy type treatment or have a a treatment within 2 weeks of enrollment(chiropractic, OMT, massage, PT)
- • currently pregnant
- • have had an injection to treat headaches within the previous 3 months from study enrollment
- • contraindications to MRI.
About Edward Via Virginia College Of Osteopathic Medicine
Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) is a distinguished institution dedicated to advancing the field of osteopathic medicine through rigorous education, innovative research, and comprehensive clinical training. As a clinical trial sponsor, VCOM emphasizes a commitment to improving healthcare outcomes by conducting high-quality, ethically-driven research that addresses critical health challenges. The college fosters collaboration among healthcare professionals, researchers, and community partners, ensuring that its clinical trials are aligned with the highest standards of scientific integrity and patient care. Through its initiatives, VCOM aims to contribute to the development of effective treatments and enhance the understanding of diverse medical conditions.
Contacts
Jennifer Cobb
Immunology at National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Locations
Auburn, Alabama, United States
Patients applied
Trial Officials
Daniel Cawley, DC
Principal Investigator
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
Timeline
First submit
Trial launched
Trial updated
Estimated completion
Not reported