If headaches or migraines are affecting your daily life, there may be a solution that addresses the source of your symptoms rather than simply managing them.

At our clinic, Senior Physiotherapist Tanvi Tiwari provides assessment and treatment using the Watson Headache® Approach—a gentle, evidence-based method designed to identify and treat neck-related contributors to headaches and migraines.

WHAT IS THE WATSON HEADACHE® APPROACH?

The Watson Headache® Approach is a specialised physiotherapy assessment and treatment technique that focuses on the upper cervical spine (the upper neck). Research has shown that dysfunction in this area can contribute to headaches and migraines by sensitising the brainstem, a key structure involved in headache disorders.

This approach helps identify the specific spinal segments that may be triggering or contributing to your symptoms and targets them with gentle, precise treatment.

Importantly, treatment does not involve neck manipulation or “cracking.”

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Using gentle palpation and movement assessment of the upper neck, we assess whether your familiar headache symptoms can be reproduced. This allows us to identify the specific structures contributing to your pain and develop a targeted treatment plan.

By addressing these underlying contributors, many patients experience a reduction in headache frequency, intensity, and duration.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Comprehensive Assessment

A detailed evaluation of your headache history, symptoms, and neck function.

Gentle Treatment

Targeted techniques designed to address the source of your headache without forceful manipulation.

Evidence-Based Care

Research-supported treatment focused on long-term improvement rather than temporary symptom relief.

Measurable Results

Many patients notice improvement within 4–5 treatment sessions, although individual results may vary.

WHO CAN BENEFIT?

The Watson Headache® Approach may be suitable for people experiencing:

• Migraines
• Tension-type headaches
• Cervicogenic headaches (headaches originating from the neck)
• Persistent or complex headaches that have not responded to previous treatments
• Headaches associated with neck pain or stiffness

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

If you are struggling with headaches or migraines and would like to find out whether the Watson Headache® Approach is right for you, book an appointment today.

Take the first step towards lasting headache relief and getting back to doing the things you enjoy. 

Whittlesea Physiotherapy and Clinical Pilates | 73 Church Street, Whittlesea VIC 3757