Background: Most non-pharmacological interventions for tension-type headache (TTH) focus on direct intervention in areas associated with headaches, with limited research exploring the indirect effects of interventions utilizing the fascia. Objectives: To investigate the effects of superficial back line (SBL) stretching and head-neck massage interventions on the range of motion (ROM) and neck disability index (NDI) of TTH. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Methods: The study participants were randomly allocated into three groups: SBL stretching group (n=9), head-neck massage group (n=9), and combined group (n=9). Prior to the intervention, measurements were taken for neck flexion ROM, straight leg raising test (SLRT) ROM, and NDI. The intervention consisted of 30-minute sessions conducted twice a week for 8 weeks. The second measurement took place 4 weeks after the intervention, followed by a third measurement conducted after an additional 4 weeks of intervention. Results: Comparing neck flexion ROM within each group, a significant increase was observed in the SBL stretching group after 8 weeks compared to before the intervention (P<.05). Regarding the comparison of SLRT ROM within each group, a significant increase was noted after 8 weeks compared to before the intervention in the SBL stretching, head-neck massage, and combined groups (P<.05). In terms of the comparison of NDI within each group, a significant decrease was observed in all three group after the intervention compared to before the intervention (P<.05). Conclusion: 8-week intervention involving SBL stretching, head-neck massage, and their combined application demonstrated effectiveness in improving neck flexion ROM, SLRT ROM, and the NDI for individuals with TTH.

NTRODUCTION
SUBJECTS AND METHODS
    Subjects
    Experimental Procedures
    Interventions
    Outcome Measures
    Data and Statistical Analysis
RESULTS
DISCUSSION
CONCLUSION
REFERENCES

• Mina Gim(PT, PhD, Department of Physical Therapy, Wonkwang Health Science University, Iksan, Republic of Korea)
• Hojung An(PT, Prof., PhD, Department of Physical Therapy, Dongnam Health University, Suwon, Republic of Korea )
• Yongyoun Kim(PT, Prof., PhD, Department of Sports Rehabilitation, Shingu University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea)
• Junghyun Choi(PT, Prof., PhD, Department of Physical Therapy, Namseoul University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea) Corresponding author