A Study on the Role of Intermittent Neuromuscular Technique Versus Nutritional Intervention (Fruits and Vegetables) Along with Conservative Management in Patients with Cervicogenic Headache: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Cervicogenic Headache (CGH) is a symptomatic headache condition. Causing from, cervical segmental dysfunction, suboccipital muscle hypertoxicity and neuromuscular dysfunction. Non-invasive treatment including, physiotherapy, postural education, and pharmacotherapy treatment, is extensively utilizes, however complementary strategies, may improve outcomes. This systematic review assesses the comparative effectiveness, in Intermittent Neuromuscular Technique (INMT) versus nutritional interventions emphasizing on fruit and vegetable intake, in conjunction with non-invasive therapy in patient with CCH.

Methods: An extensive literature investigate was implemental across PubMed, Scopus, web of science and coherence library for studies documental between 2000 and 2025. Key words include “cervicogenic headache”, “Intermittent Neuromuscular Technique”, “Nutrient based intervention”, “fruits and vegetables”, and non-invasive treatment. Eligibility criteria consisted of Randomized controlled trial, controlled observational studies, and case-control studies analyzing INMT or nutritional interventions in adult CGH population. Data acquisition aimed on pain intensity, headache frequency, functional outcomes, well-being, and negative outcomes.

Results: Twelve studies archived the eligibility criteria, including 624 participants aged 18-65 years. INMT indicate notable enhanced in pain reduction, cervical ROM, and muscle function compared to non-invasive treatment. Exclusively (p<0.05). Nutritional intervention highlighting increased dietary intake of antitoxic rich fruits and vegetables in headache frequency and intensity, enhanced inflammatory biomarkers and improved overall well -being (p<0.05. Integrated Approaches combining INMT with nutritional modifications indicated interactive effects, specifically in persistent CGH, with enhanced postural configuration, motor control and decreased dependence on analgesics.

Conclusion: INMT and Nutritional interventions provide synergistic benefits. When combined with non-invasive treatment for CGH. While INMT mainly focused on motor dysfunction, nutritional interventions regulate body-wide inflammation and oxidative stress, Integrated approaches emerge most effective, highlighting the requirement for individuated treatments plans, subsequent extensive, high quality RCTs are required to demonstrate consistent protocols and enhance clinical outcomes.

Keywords: CGH; INMT; Nutrition Fruits and Vegetables; Non-Invasive Treatment; Systematic Review

Citation

Nagamanikandan R, Muthukrishnan P. A Study on the Role of Intermittent Neuromuscular Technique Versus Nutritional Intervention (Fruits and Vegetables) Along with Conservative Management in Patients with Cervicogenic Headache: A Systematic Review. WebLog J Phys Ther Rehabil. wjptr.2026.b2308. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18829756