MyoActiveWatson Headache® Approach

Watson Headache® Approach

Do you suffer from constant Headaches?

The Watson Headache® Approach is a specialised physiotherapy technique that focuses on the upper cervical
spine (top of the neck) and how it influences headaches, migraines, dizziness, and related symptoms. Research
shows that nerves from the upper neck connect directly with pain pathways in the brainstem, meaning irritation or
sensitivity in this region can contribute to ongoing headache disorders.
This approach involves a gentle, highly specific hands-on assessment to reproduce and then reduce familiar
head pain, helping identify whether the neck is contributing to symptoms.

Treatment aims to calm nervous
system sensitivity rather than using forceful manipulation.

Potential benefits Important: Headache Red Flags

• Better understanding of what may be driving your headaches

• Reduced headache frequency or intensity • Improved neck movement and muscle control

• Identification of neck related headache triggers

• A personalised treatment and self management plan

Why the neck matters The upper neck plays an important role in several systems in the body, including:

• Head and neck movement

• Balance and spatial awareness

• Communication between the neck and the brainstem

• Coordination of eye movement and posture Most headaches are not dangerous.

However, some symptoms require urgent medical assessment. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• A sudden, severe headache described as the 'worst headache of your life'

• A new headache following a head injury

• Headache with fever, stiff neck, or rash

• Headache with confusion, difficulty speaking, weakness, or numbness • Headache with fainting or seizures

• Persistent vomiting with headache • A new headache in someone over age 50

• Headaches that are rapidly worsening or changing pattern

• Headache associated with vision loss or double vision

If you experience frequent headaches or migraines and suspect your neck may be involved, a specialised physiotherapy assessment may help identify contributing factors and guide treatment.

Georgena Kalpakidis has completed Level 1 training in the Watson Headache® Approach through the Watson Headache Institute, developed by Australian physiotherapist Dr Dean Watson. Georgena has personally experienced migraines and understands how disruptive and frustrating they can be.

Her aim is to help patients better understand their headaches and identify whether the neck may be contributing to their symptoms. What is the Watson Headache® Approach? The Watson Headache® Approach is a specialised physiotherapy assessment that focuses on the upper neck (upper cervical spine) and its connection to headache and migraine symptoms. Nerves from the top three neck joints (C1–C3) connect directly to pain pathways in the brainstem.

When these joints or surrounding muscles become sensitive or irritated, they may trigger or worsen headaches.

Types of headaches that may be assessed

• Migraine with aura / without aura

• Menstrual migraine

• Abdominal migraine

• Silent migraine

• Vestibular migraine (migraine with dizziness/vertigo)

• Cluster headaches • Tension type headaches

• Cervicogenic headaches (headaches coming from the neck)

How the assessment works

A detailed discussion about your headache history and symptoms

Gentle hands-on testing of the upper neck

Specific movements that may reproduce familiar head pain

Techniques aimed at reducing sensitivity in the nervous system

No cracking, manipulation, or forceful movements