Melbourne Headache Centre

The Melbourne Headache Centre uses techniques called the Watson Headache Approach, specifically developed for assessing and treating the neck as to relates to headaches and migraines.

Scientific research has proven that the common underling problem in all major headache types is an overactive brainstem (trigeminal nucleus). The 3 nerves in the upper neck feed directly into this trigeminal nucleus. The Watson Headache approach has been proven to lower this overactivity in the brainstem and treat the underlying pathology.

The precision of the assessment allows us to identify the 80% of sufferers in which the neck is causing over activity. In accordance with the official diagnostic criteria we identify reproducible signs of pain referral from the neck. The other 20% are identified and not offered treatment leading to higher success rates and minimizing the number of people having treatment who do not respond. 90% of those offered treatment will see significant changes in 2-3 weeks of starting therapy. 85% are discharged to self management in under 10 treatments and will successfully self manage for long periods of time.