Type of headaches we treat
- Migraine headaches
- Tension headaches
- Cluster headaches
- Menstrual headaches
- Cervicogenic (coming from the neck) headaches
- Trigeminal neuralgia
How can we treat these headaches?
Recent research has demonstrated that the types of headaches listed above (and many more) are caused by sensitisation of the lower part of the brain and upper spinal cord (cervico-trigeminal nucleus). Sensitisation of this region can lead to headache, migraines with and without aura, headaches with nausea and vomiting, menstrual migraines and many more. The nerve pathway involved is located in the upper 3 neck bones and dysfunction of any of these 3 vertebrae can cause sensitisation of this nerve pathway leading to headache and migraine.
What do we do?
Our Physiotherapists have trained in the Watson Headache approach. Through an accurate assessment of the upper cervical spine (neck), using the technique developed by the Watson Headache Institute we can ascertain in the first visit whether your cervical spine is contributing to your headaches. Based on this assessment we can devise a treatment plan to correct the neck dysfunction and manage your headaches and migraines more effectively.
Our assessment and techniques are very gentle and do not involve any forceful manipulation or “cracking” of your neck.
What to expect on your first visit!
The first visit will involve the physiotherapist taking a complete history of your problem, followed by a gentle assessment of your neck. There is no cracking or manipulation required and we can usually tell within the first session if your neck is likely to be contributing to your headaches and migraines. We will commence treatment on your neck within the first session if we feel the neck is involved. This involves gentle manual therapy (again no cracking or manipulation).