Assessment and Treatment

At The Headache Clinic, we understand the frustration of trying countless treatments with little to no relief. That’s why our approach is different and effective.

We find and treat the root cause of your symptoms - whether you have headaches, migraines, neck issues or concussion symptoms.

Extensive research indicates that whether you suffer from tension headaches, migraines, cluster headaches or one of the other 300-plus types of headaches, you will have a sensitised lower brainstem.

Your brainstem is housed within the top three vertebrae of your spine and receives information from the structures in the head, as well as the upper cervical spine (top of the neck). When that system is disrupted, it can trigger pain.

If we find that another system in your body is contributing to your symptoms, we'll address that too. And if we feel your condition would be better managed elsewhere, we'll refer you to the right specialist so you get the most appropriate care.

Your Journey to Lasting Relief

Initial Consultation

Your first visit is all about clarity and direction. Our expert clinicians begin by gaining a thorough understanding of your symptoms through detailed questioning. We then carry out ligament stability testing, cranial nerve testing and vertebral artery screening to ensure your safety.

follow up treatment

Each follow-up session is designed to build on your progress. Your clinicians will assess how you’re responding and continue treatment, focusing on the upper cervical spine and any other systems contributing to your symptoms.

The goal is to correct dysfunction in the upper cervical spine. By doing so, we reduce the noxious signals entering the brainstem. As your brainstem desensitises, your body becomes more tolerant to everyday triggers such as tiredness, stress, hormonal changes, and dehydration.

You’ll also be guided on how to improve your postural alignment and biomechanics and be given a simple home exercise plan to support your recovery between visits. Each session takes approximately 30 minutes.

results

We expect most patients to have a significant improvement during the first three weeks of treatment. This improvement is simple to maintain at home and allows you to enjoy a better quality of life.

Headaches, migraines, and concussion symptoms can disrupt every part of your day. Our approach offers a long-term solution, giving you the freedom to live life pain free and without relying on medication.

Tips & Tricks

1

take a break

Lying flat on your back with no pillow and either a hot or cold pack in the hollow of the neck.
2

get outside

Go for a walk in the fresh air — walk tall with good posture.
3

check your posture

If you are sitting at your computer, correct your posture by lifting your chest up and pulling your head in so it is sitting on top of your body (pretending that the screen smells really bad!).
4

support your back

When travelling, take off your jumper and put it into the arch in the lower back so it is easier to maintain a correct sitting position.
5

don't slouch on the couch

Lie on your side on the couch instead of sitting in comfortable seats with slouched posture. Keep your head in a neutral position by placing a cushion under your head when lying on your side.
6

lie flat

Don't lie in bed on your back with pillows under your head.

Why us?

Our clinicians are qualified physiotherapists who have chosen to work exclusively in the field of headache, migraine and concussion management. This focused expertise means you’re in the hands of professionals who live and breathe this work.

  • We are highly trained
    In assessing and treating headache, neck pain and concussion using proven, research-backed treatment that gets results.
  • And if we’re not the right fit?
    We’ll tell you. After your initial consultation, if we believe another path is better, we’ll guide you in the right direction. Whether that’s a referral to another health professional or further imaging.

Want to find out if this treatment is for you?

about us
Expert headache, migraine and concussion care, focused on getting to the source of your symptoms for lasting relief.

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