General physical impairments in migraine patients beyond cervical function

Previous research has focused on the possibility of cervical dysfunction in migraine patients, similar to what is observed in patients with tension-type headaches. However, there is no evidence concerning the physical function of other body regions, even though lower levels of physical activity have been reported among migraine patients. The aim of this study was to compare cervical and extra-cervical range of motion, muscular strength, and endurance, as well as overall levels of physical activity, between patients with chronic migraine (CM) and asymptomatic participants. The secondary objective included the analysis of associations between CM-related disability and various physical and psychological variables. A total of 90 participants were included in this cross-sectional study: 30 asymptomatic participants (AG) and 60 patients with CM. Cervical and lumbar range of motion, strength and endurance, as well as handgrip strength were measured. Headache-related disability, kinesiophobia, pain behaviors, physical activity level and headache frequency were assessed through a self-report. Lower values were found in CM vs AG for cervical and lumbar ranges of motion (p < 0.05; effect sizes ranging from 0.57 to 1.44). Also, for neck extension strength (p = 0.013; d = − 0.66), lumbar strength (p < 0.001; d = − 1.91) and handgrip strength (p < 0.001; d = − 0.98), neck endurance (p < 0.001; d = − 1.81) and lumbar endurance (p < 0.001; d = − 2.11). Significant differences were found for physical activity levels (p = 0.01; d = − 0.85) and kinesiophobia (p < 0.001; d = − 0.93) between CM and AG. Headache-related disability was strongly associated with headache frequency, activity avoidance, and rest, which together explained 41% of the variance. The main findings of this study suggest that patients with CM have a generalized fitness deficit and not specifically cervical dysfunction. These findings support the hypothesis that migraine patients have not only neck-related issues but also general body conditions.