Comparative Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation(tDCS) and Dry Needling on Headache Intensity, Frequency, Cervical Range of Motion, and Quality of Life in College Students diagnosed with Migraine and Cervicogenic Headache: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Comparative Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation  and Dry Needling on Headache Intensity Frequency  Cervical Range of Motion and Quality of Life in College Students diagnosed with Migraine and Cervicogenic Headache  A Randomized Controlled Trial

Dr.Kamran Ali                        Ghazala Khan                                                  Associate Professor

24SMAS3030002                                                                  Department of Physiotherapy

Registration No                                                                                    Galgotias University

Galgotias University                                                                                                    SAHS

Greater Noida, U.P

Introduction

Headaches are among the most common problems faced globally, significantly impacting the quality of life, productivity, and mental well-being, especially among college students Headache and cervicogenic headache (CGH) are frequently reported types with overlapping symptoms

The Growing Burden of Headache

Headache is a widespread problem affecting an estimated 1.16 billion people globally, making it one of the leading causes of disability worldwide According to recent epidemiological data, the global prevalence of headaches has increased by 58.15% from 732.56 million cases in 1990 to over a billion in 2021 During the same period, the incidence rate surged by 42.06%, while disability-adjusted life years  rose by 58.27%, underscoring its growing impact on public health, productivity, and healthcare utilization

The burden of headache exhibits notable disparities across age groups, sexes, and socioeconomic regions. Epidemiological data indicate a higher prevalence and greater disease burden of headache among women, characterized by increased attack frequency, duration, and disability. These disparities contribute to higher healthcare utilization, including specialist consultations and prescription medication use, potentially influenced by hormonal and neurological mechanisms Adolescents under 20 years old show the fastest increase in prevalence, suggesting a worrying trend in younger populations Geographically, East Asia and Latin America exhibit the most significant increases in headache cases, whereas Southeast Asia has shown a decline With predictive models suggesting a continued rise in headache prevalence until 2050, particularly among male individuals and adolescents, urgent action is required