Headache & Migraine Management Ottoway
Core Physiotherapy and Pilates Studio provides a tailored approach to managing each unique case of neck-related headaches, assessing symptom changes throughout and after each session.
What You Need to Know About 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.
How Neck Tension May Be Contributing to Your Headache
Research in physiotherapy indicates that neck stiffness can play a role in headaches, particularly those linked to prolonged poor posture and muscle tension. The signs below may indicate involvement of the neck joints:
Headaches that originate in the back of the head and extend toward the forehead.
Pain intensified by neck movement or prolonged sitting.
Unilateral headaches that frequently occur on the same side.
Pain decreasing when targeted pressure is applied to the base of the skull.
Recurring headaches that remain after medical investigations have found no other cause.
Comprehensive Assessment of Headaches
At Core Physiotherapy and Pilates Studio, we conduct a thorough headache assessment that starts with a discussion about your symptoms and their triggers. This allows us to determine whether certain joints may be contributing to your headaches. A hands-on evaluation follows, where the physiotherapist examines general neck function and upper joint movement to establish the primary sources of discomfort.
Our evaluation process helps us create an individualised strategy for managing neck-related headaches, tracking symptom changes throughout each session and beyond.


A Customised Approach to Managing Headaches
We take a comprehensive approach to neck-related headaches, using hands-on techniques, postural training, and ergonomic recommendations to enhance long-term outcomes. This includes:
Manual Therapy for Neck Joints
Improving mobility through stretching and joint mobilisation can alleviate stiffness that contributes to headaches.
Advice on Improving Posture and Ergonomics
Recommendations for optimising workstation setup, maintaining proper posture, and selecting the right pillow for neck support.
Neck and Shoulder Stretches
Tailored exercises focused on maintaining neck function, enhancing flexibility, and reducing the likelihood of headaches returning.

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Find Relief from Ongoing Headaches
A structured physiotherapy program that improves posture, ergonomic habits, and joint function can be beneficial for headaches originating from the neck. If you’re experiencing ongoing headaches, a physiotherapist can complement the care provided by other health professionals.
Note: While physiotherapy can aid in managing certain types of headaches, it’s essential for individuals with severe or sudden-onset headaches to seek immediate medical evaluation to rule out underlying health conditions.