Headache & Migraine Management Morphettville
At Core Physio & Pilates, we take an individualised approach to treating neck-related headaches, closely monitoring symptom progression during and after treatment.
Understanding Headaches
Headaches are a common yet complex condition affecting many Australians. Characterised by discomfort in the head or upper neck, sometimes radiating around the eyes and face, headaches can originate from different sources, including the upper neck joints. Research indicates that 87% of people experience headaches annually, with migraines being three times more prevalent in women. While painkillers provide temporary relief, physiotherapy may be a helpful option for managing neck-related headaches, particularly those linked to poor posture and prolonged desk work.


Could Neck Stiffness Be the Source of Your Headache?
Physiotherapists have noted that neck stiffness may be linked to headaches, particularly in cases of sustained poor posture and tension. The following indicators can point to the neck joints as a contributing factor:
Headaches that originate in the back of the head and extend toward the forehead.
Discomfort that increases with prolonged sitting or turning the neck.
Headaches that persistently affect only one side of the head.
Relief when pressure is applied to the base of the skull.
Headaches continuing after medical evaluation has ruled out underlying health issues.
Detailed Headache Assessment
Our headache assessment at Core Physio & Pilates begins with a comprehensive discussion to understand your symptoms and potential causes. This initial step helps us determine whether specific neck joints are playing a role in your headaches. A physical examination follows, during which the physiotherapist assesses neck movement and upper joint mobility to identify the structures involved.
Our assessment process allows us to form a tailored approach to managing each unique case of neck-related headaches, assessing symptom changes throughout and after each session.
Individualised Plans for Headache Relief
To address neck-related headaches, our management plan combines hands-on therapy, postural adjustments, and ergonomic advice to support lasting relief. This involves:
Targeted Manual Therapy for Neck Joints
Targeted stretching and joint mobilisation work to relieve stiffness that may be triggering the headache.
Strategies for Enhancing Posture and Ergonomics
Guidance on workstation setup, posture alignment, and pillow selection to support neck health.
Tailored Neck Stretches
Specific exercises designed to enhance neck function, improve flexibility, and minimise the risk of recurring headaches.
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Long Term Headache Treatment
When headaches stem from the neck, physiotherapy can play a key role in managing posture, ergonomics, and joint health. A physiotherapist can work alongside your healthcare team to enhance treatment outcomes for persistent headaches.
Note: Physiotherapy is beneficial for some headache types, but individuals with severe or abrupt headache onset should seek prompt medical assessment to ensure no underlying conditions are present.