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 don’t just manage symptoms. We find and treat the root cause of your headaches, migraines, or persistent 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.

Our role is to assess whether the structures in the upper cervical spine are contributing to this sensitivity, treat the dysfunction in this area and then teach you how to maintain your improvement long-term.

  • 1. Initial Consultation

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

    Next, we perform a comprehensive assessment of your upper cervical spine, along with any other systems that may be contributing to your symptoms. This helps us pinpoint the source of your pain and identify the structures involved.

    You'll receive a clear, personalised explanation of our findings. We’ll also provide advice on what you can do at home to support your recovery. From there, your practitioner will go on to complete your first treatment session.

  • 2. Follow up Treatment

    Each follow-up session is designed to build on your progress. Your practitioner will assess how you’re responding and continue treatment, focusing on the upper cervical spine and any other areas 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 be given a simple home exercise plan to support your recovery between visits. Each session takes approximately 30 minutes.

  • 3. 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.

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Why us?

Our practitioners 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 the upper cervical spine and apply a proven, research-backed approach with precision and care.

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.