One of the most universal treatments for migraines is to start taking medications. There are many drugs that have varying effects on migraines, depending on the individual. Some of these medications include simple analgesics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Paracetamol and Ibuprofen which can be purchased over the counter in Australia.
Other more powerful drugs include Triptans, which require a Doctor’s prescription to purchase.
However, taking these drugs comes with some inherent risks; not least of which is the chance of developing medication overuse headaches (MOH) as a result of their treatment.
Therefore, almost everyone will seek a way to escape their reliance on medications. There are many alternative or complementary treatments, which have a very mixed efficacy. Ranked in ascending order, these are grouped:
Physiotherapy, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, or Osteopathic Treatment
Physiotherapy, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, or Osteopathic treatment, usually around the neck region. Many patients will complain of neck pain or tightness and feel that their neck is part of the issue. Finding a practitioner is generally easy and is a great alternative to medications, however, results can be quite mixed and generally offer short-term relief only.
Naturopathy or Dietary interventions
Naturopathy or Dietary interventions with some advocating for essential oils, ginger, feverfew, or mineral supplements.
Not only are these options attractive because they are non-invasive and drug-free; but they are also painless and can be taken passively. Unfortunately, scientific evidence to support these as treatment is inconclusive at best. Generally speaking, these treatments lack the power to improve strong headaches or migraines.
Watson Headache® Approach
This approach is the number 1 alternative to treat migraines and headaches.
It is a specialised manual therapy technique that seeks to identify the relevance of afferent information from the C1-3 spinal levels to your headache, migraines, and other symptoms, then treat and resolve these using a systematic approach.
This method is backed by compelling scientific evidence and has been clinically effective for a variety of headache or migraine sufferers across the world.
Long term relief and self-management are achievable for the majority of migraine sufferers, with a consistent treatment course.
The disadvantage of this approach is that it requires a high level of technical skill and as such, will not be effective when applied ad hoc by therapists, but should only be employed by Certified Watson Practitioners.
See the Watson Approach website for a directory of Certified Practitioners: https://watsonheadache.com/directory/
The Brisbane Headache and Migraine Clinic is located in South East Queensland, Australia, and offers a holistic intervention centered on the Watson Headache® Approach. We apply this knowledge and technical skill in concert with an examination of all aspects of your life, in order to promote sustainable self-management and a migraine-free lifestyle.
If you are suffering from headaches or migraines, please contact us and experience the difference!
