Get it checked at Bodyline Health, Lower Plenty
We see patients from across the Diamond Valley, including Eltham, Greensborough, Montmorency, Rosanna and Heidelberg. No referral needed, free parking, onsite X-ray when clinically indicated and HICAPS claiming on the spot.
Headaches and migraines: a guide from the Bodyline Health team at 17 Main Road, Lower Plenty.
Headaches and migraines are common
Most people have headaches at some point, and many live with frequent ones. Knowing the type you have is the first step. Our article on tension headache vs migraine explains the differences.
Types of headaches and migraines
- Tension-type headache – pressure or a tight band on both sides of the head
- Cervicogenic headache – pain that starts in the neck and spreads to the head, often one-sided and linked to neck movement or posture
- Migraine – throbbing, often one-sided pain with nausea or light sensitivity, sometimes with aura
- Medication-overuse headache – from frequent use of pain relief
Common triggers
- Long periods at a screen or looking down at a phone
- Poor or short sleep
- Stress and jaw clenching
- Skipped meals and dehydration
- Hormonal changes
- Neck stiffness and tight shoulder muscles
How we help with headaches and migraines
At Bodyline Health, assessment starts with a detailed history of your headaches and a check of your neck, upper back, jaw and posture. We screen for warning signs that need medical attention.
Where the neck is involved, care may include joint mobilisation, soft tissue work, dry needling and exercises for the deep neck and shoulder blade muscles. We also look at workstation set-up and sleep. See our headache and migraine treatment page and our jaw pain treatment page if clenching is part of the picture.
Keeping a headache diary
Note when headaches start, how long they last, what you were doing and what helped. A few weeks of notes often reveals a pattern and helps your GP and practitioners plan your care.
Who at Bodyline Health can help with headaches and migraines?
Because our practitioners work under one roof, your care can be shared between people who talk to each other.
- Dr Phillip Mifsud (Chiropractor): assessment of the neck and upper back and care for neck-related headaches.
- Keryn Arrowsmith (Myotherapist): myotherapy and dry needling for neck, shoulder and jaw tension.
- Dr Catherine Farchione (Chinese Medicine Practitioner): acupuncture as part of a headache management plan.
- Jess Lagerwey (Mental Wellness Therapist): support with stress, which is a common headache trigger.
When to seek urgent medical help
Call 000 for a sudden, severe headache, a headache with fever and stiff neck, confusion, weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, vision loss, or a headache after a head injury. In an emergency, call 000.
Further reading: Headaches (Healthdirect Australia); Migraine (Healthdirect Australia).
Common questions
Can a chiropractor help with headaches?
Headaches that come from the neck may respond to hands-on care and exercise. An assessment helps work out whether the neck is involved.
Should I see my GP for migraines?
Yes. Your GP can confirm the diagnosis and discuss medicines to treat and prevent attacks.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed for a standard appointment at Bodyline Health.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for individual medical advice. If you are unsure, see your GP or book an assessment.
