Headache and migraine care in Edgeworth
Not every headache starts in the head. Many are driven or aggravated by the joints and muscles of the neck. We check whether that's the case for you, treat what we find, and tell you honestly if someone else is better placed to help.
The headaches we see most
Headaches come in many types. These are the three we see most often in the clinic:
- Tension-type headache: a tight band or pressure around the head, often with tight neck and shoulder muscles
- Cervicogenic headache: pain referred from the upper neck, usually one-sided, starting at the base of the skull and spreading forward, often worse with certain neck positions
- Migraine: a neurological condition, usually a throbbing headache with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound. For some people, neck pain and tension are part of the picture
Common triggers
Headaches usually have more than one trigger. The ones we hear about most:
- Stiff or irritated joints in the upper neck
- Long hours at a screen or driving
- Tight muscles through the neck, shoulders and jaw
- Poor sleep, stress, dehydration and skipped meals
- A previous whiplash or neck injury
Keeping a simple headache diary for a couple of weeks before your visit (when, how long, how strong, what you were doing) makes the assessment much more useful.
Our approach to headaches and migraines
Assess
We ask about the pattern of your headaches, examine your neck and upper back, and screen for warning signs. The aim is to work out whether your neck is contributing, and how much.
Treat
If your neck is involved, treatment may include gentle joint mobilisation or adjustment, soft tissue work and exercises for the deep neck muscles. For migraine, we work alongside your GP's care, not instead of it.
Track
We'll ask you to keep an eye on how often headaches come and how strong they are, so we can both see whether treatment is making a difference. If it isn't, we'll say so.
What does the research say? The evidence is strongest for cervicogenic headache, where studies have found that hands-on treatment of the neck can reduce how often headaches occur. For tension-type headache and migraine the evidence is more mixed, so we treat what we find in your neck and judge the result by your own headache diary.
When to get urgent help
This page is general information only and isn't a substitute for an individual assessment. Healthdirect, the Australian government's health information service, has more on headaches.
Headaches and migraines: your questions answered
Can a chiropractor help with migraines?
Migraine is a neurological condition and is best managed with your GP. Where neck pain and stiffness are part of your migraine pattern, treating the neck may help some people, but results vary and we'll be upfront about what we find.
How do I know if my headache is coming from my neck?
Clues include a headache that starts at the base of the skull, sits mostly on one side, comes on with certain neck positions or long periods at a desk, and neck stiffness alongside it. An examination is the only way to be sure.
How many visits before I notice a change?
People who are going to respond usually notice a change within the first few visits. We review as we go, and if nothing is changing we'll stop and suggest other options.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book directly with us, online or by phone. If you have a referral, scans or reports from your GP or specialist, bring them along.
Can I claim on my health fund?
Rebates are available on the spot for most extras policies that include chiropractic. Bring your health fund card to claim at the clinic.
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Ready to get your headaches looked at?
Start with a proper assessment at our Edgeworth clinic. No referral needed.