Understand the intricacies of the disease and win the war against migraines

What is Migraine?


Migraines are a severe, painful headache that gradually develops from a mild headache to a throbbing momentum. It is often preceded or accompanied by sensory upheavals like flashes of light, blind spots, tingling in the arms and legs, nausea, vomiting and increased sensitivity to light and sound. The piercing pain that migraines bring on can sometimes last for a few hours or even days.



Migraine generally result from the combined affects of the enlargement of the blood vessels and the release of chemicals from nerve fibers. During the headache, the temporal artery enlarges causing the release of chemicals. These combined effects not only cause further enlargement of the artery but also cause pain and inflammation.



This further aggravates feelings of nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. Moreover, this typical response adds to a delay in emptying of the stomach into the small intestines, taking its toll on food absorption, decreasing blood circulation which leads to cold hands and feet, and an increased sensitivity to light and sound.


Who are affected by migraine?


Anybody can suffer from migraines, including children, adolescents, or grown - up men and women. However, studies have revealed that this condition is nearly four times more evident in women.


It has also been found that many people who suffer with migraine headaches also have a family history of migraines. However, this is an assumption as no exact hereditary mechanisms have yet been detected. The assumption is based on suffers having a family history of migraines. It has been assumed that people who get migraines have an inherited abnormality wherein the blood vessels are not consistently regulated.


Migraine symptoms in children


Most adults who still suffer from migraine headache probably got their first headache as a child. Some research on this issue reveals that almost 5% of the people suffer from at least one migraine attack before the age of 15; in fact children as young as five years are known to suffer from migraine headaches. This means that migraines in children seem to be much more common than earlier believed.



Children, more often than not, do react differently to migraine - their symptoms and ways of coping may look quite unfamiliar to an adult. Some of the more noticeable symptoms include a change in temperament (unusual temper or sadness), nausea, and headache (especially on one side of the head) which can either be on one side of the head or on both sides. Children are more likely to have a headache on both sides of the head. Some may even experience an aura and be sensitive to light. In addition, it has been noted that children who get car sick may also be predisposed to migraine.


Nutritional supplement for the relief of migraine


Trying nutritional supplements for headaches is a good idea. Neither do these supplements cost a fortune nor do they cause any unpleasant side-effects, like prescription drugs. On the contrary, these supplements may actually do some real good. However, the only issue with alternative treatments is that in most cases immediate migraine relief is almost impossible; however, in the long-term this goal can be achieved.



Therefore, taking supplements of vitamins B6 and B12, as well as folic acid, magnesium, coenzyme Q10 and riboflavin on a daily basis may reduce the frequency, severity and disability of migraines. Daily vitamin supplements, in fact, were found to produce a two-fold reduction in migraine disability.



Autor: MarkBevan

Webmaster associate with migraine headache related site. This site provides various information on migraine treatment and migraine symptoms. Resources are available on site headclinic.co.uk

Added: November 25, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Understand-the-intricac~

Exertional Headache, Migraine and the Neck

"Benign" (or harmless) Exertional Headache is defined as headache caused by exertion such as coughing, sneezing, bending, heavy lifting, running (how is this different to headache triggered by exercise?) or when straining at stool.

It is important that if your headache history is less than 3 months and is triggered or aggravated by these activities that you consult you doctor.

These activities create similar effects on the body as do the Valsalva manoeuvers.

Recent research1 found a wide range of symptoms in Exertional Headache, some with migrainous symptoms, and the authors suggested that the "triptans" might be useful. As usual there is a lot of discussion as to the actual mechanism of Exertional Headache and indeed Exercise Induced Headache, but the causes remain unknown - why?

The Valsalva manoeuver is used (and has been for years) to identify problems or injury in the nerves of the cervical spine. Upon the exertion of pressure, pain may be felt, and may indicate increased pressure on the C2-3 intervertebral disc or other part of a cervicogenic (neck) disorder.

Clearly increased headache or headache or migraine triggered by exertion or exercise is likely to be caused by a neck disorder.

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 23, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Exertional-Headache--Mi~

Avoiding Chocolate to Prevent Migraine is Not Necessary

Avoiding Chocolate to Prevent Migraine is Not Necessary

Avoiding chocolate to prevent migraine is not necessary - it isn"t about the chocolate!

The thought of living without chocolate is unbearable but I know that for many of you, the experience is not worth it!

However, many of my patients are now eating chocolate, in fact this is what I ask them to do after 3-4 treatments - and you can imagine their (and mine!) delight when they do so without headache or migraine.

But why is it that I can eat chocolate without headache - I"m sure that chocolate has the same effect on me as it does on someone else who ends up with a headache. For example phenylethylamine (PEA) is a chemical in chocolate that causes blood vessels to expand and contract - this probably happens for everyone, but not everyone gets headache or migraine. Some might say that the chocolate sensitises their system, whilst some authorities suggest that their system is already sensitised before the chocolate came along.

I suspect that just as in migraine and tension headache sufferers, the brainstems of those whose headache or migraines are triggered by chocolate, are already sensitised. The normal response of the blood vessels to PEA is to expand, but the pain interpreting centres in the brain understands this (normal) increased activity to be much more than what it is and pain results.

What"s causing the sensitisation? It is easy to confirm a neck disorder because temporary reproduction and lessening of head pain occurs when examining the joints of the upper neck - it is important to confirm the source of sensitisation ...

... then you can enjoy the benefits of eating (good quality and dark) chocolate:

a natural mood enhancer

a stress reliever

a memory enhancer

improves your levels of serotonin (which will desensitise your brainstem).

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia



Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 22, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Avoiding-Chocolate-to-P~

Headaches Caused By Stress

Stress is a typical cause of headaches. If you be afflicted by migraines, you have a tendency to be easily influenced by intense events. During stressful events, certain chemicals in your cerebral cortex are released to counter a situation ( known as "flight or fight" reply ). The release of these chemicals strokes the blood carrying vessels and that causes migraine.

Stress is generally the cause of tension-type headaches too. Tension-type headaches are of two types: episodic and chronic. You get an episodic tension-type headache because of an isolated stressful situation or a build-up of stress. If you get stressed out daily, such as from a high-pressured job, it can lead to a chronic tension-type headache.

Headache causing stress is usually prompted by factors which exist in the environment or other internal reasons. The most common sources of stress include family, social relationship, mates, work and college. Specific stress triggers include :

issues at home
The birth of a child.
Getting back to school
examination stress
New job and new office surroundings
Meeting stern cut offs
Work deadlines.
Competing in sports
Poor physical appearance
trying to achieve perfection
Lack of proper sleep
Less sleep than mandatory
Over-involvement in several activities

If you do not need to deal with headaches, it is important that you keep stress in control. Here are some tips that will help you keep stress in control.

Recognize potential triggers : Keep a log of the triggers that cause you stress. They might be habits, situations or personality issues.

Manage time effectively: Schedule your tasks by allocating adequate time period for each of them. Perform a single task at a time.

Take breaks : Take time out to clear your consciousness if you believe you are besieged in a complicated situation. A short walk or a stretch break may replenish your energy.

Start exercising everyday. Exercising releases endorphins in your body and helps combat a headache.

Have proper diet : A diet loaded in fruits, plants and grains energises you and keeps stress in hand.

Go on vacation : take five from your daily schedule and head out for a vacation or a weekend getaway. Time off will help you regain your point of view and calm you down adequately.

giggle : Humor is an acceptable approach to easing stress. Laughter releases the chemical endorphin into the brain which keeps your mood positive.

There are many OTC medications available as well to treat stress induced headaches and include Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, and Acetaminophen. Prescription medicines include Tolmetin, Ketoprofen, Diclofenac, Isometheptine, codeine and Hydrocodone.

Autor: Daniel Day

To know more about Causes of Headache and Headache Treatments visit: http://www.headacheupdates.com/migraine/

Added: November 21, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Headaches-Caused-By-Str~

Hair Wash Headache

In recent correspondence to an acclaimed international headache journal, a doctor located in

India reported on migrainous headache occurring after washing of the hair - as the author

explains this has either not been noticed in other countries or it may be that similar

headache presentations in other countries occur but are called something else.

As reported by this doctor, the crucial factor here is that many ladies from India have long

hair that is plaited and it is time consuming to dry their hair (it is uncommon to use a

hairdryer). Consequently many women do not wet their hair daily. On the days that they wash

their hair however they describe throbbing headache developing within 10"-15" ; their

history of these headaches is usually quite long; this is the only headache they get; usage

of perfumes or shampoos is uncommon ... therefore the author (doctor) considers there are no

other triggering factors .....

Are you thinking what I"m thinking? Imagine the weight on the back of the head of all the

wet hair pulling the upper neck backwards - the stress on the neck structures would be

significant .... could this be an unrecognised cervicogenic headache?

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic

(neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical

experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to

undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache

sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what

it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of

treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my

unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it

is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that

cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are

supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses,

can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment.

However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and

migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is

essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be

investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely

disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for

headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in

and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to

create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary

reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm

that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the

headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement

in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder

to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique

is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be

the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the

techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal

segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having

determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then

this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment

can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known

as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for

physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong,

Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany,

Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic

(neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School

of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western

Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 20, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Hair-Wash-Headache/5929~

Sensitisation in Headache and Migraine

I have mentioned in my previous blogs that sensitisation of the brainstem has been

demonstrated in migraine, tension headache, menstrual migraine and cluster headache.

What I may not have made clear is that this sensitised state is present even when you are

free of your headache or migraine, that is, your brainstem is sensitised constantly.

Then what happens is that you eat or drink something, your hormonal levels change, you smell

a perfume - and this triggers your headache or migraine. These events lead to increased (but

normal) activity of structures (including blood vessels) inside your head.

This increased activity is wrongly interpreted as being much more than what it actually is

and pain results. If it wasn"t for your sensitised brainstem, what you eat, drink, smell or

hormonal fluctuations would not result in the disabling headache or migraine.

If you are going to be free of your headache or migraine, the source of sensitisation has to

be determined. Whilst the triptans desensitise the brainstem and are effective for many of

you, they do not eliminate the cause of the sensitisation.

Information from neck disorders can sensitise the brainstem and of all the various

investigations you may have for your headache of migraine, a skilled examination of your

upper neck is relatively inexpensive and non invasive, and may change your life

significantly.

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic

(neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical

experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to

undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache

sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what

it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of

treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my

unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it

is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that

cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are

supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses,

can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment.

However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and

migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is

essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be

investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely

disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for

headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in

and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to

create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary

reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm

that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the

headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement

in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder

to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique

is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be

the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the

techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal

segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having

determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then

this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment

can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known

as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for

physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong,

Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany,

Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic

(neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School

of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western

Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 18, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Sensitisation-in-Headac~

Hemicrania Continua - The Challenges of Diagnosis!

Hemicrania continua is defined as a constant one sided (and always on the same side)

headache of moderate intensity with exacerbations and which responds to Indomethacin. Other

possible symptoms include redness of the eye, a watery or teary eye, a blocked or runny

nostril and drooping of the eyelid.

But we have case reports which show that this supposedly one sided (always the same side)

headache can occur on the other side and can also be on both sides at the same time.

Interestingly the traditional classification system of headache and migraine states that

Cervicogenic (neck-related) Headache as a one sided headache (and always the same side)

also. However my experience of over 21000 hours with headache and migraine patients is that

a one sided headache that can occur on the other side is a Cervicogenic Headache. Does this

mean that I am saying Hemicrania Continua is likely to be Cervicogenic Headache - Yes!

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic

(neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical

experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to

undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache

sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what

it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of

treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my

unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it

is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that

cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are

supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses,

can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment.

However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and

migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is

essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be

investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely

disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for

headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in

and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to

create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary

reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm

that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the

headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement

in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder

to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique

is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be

the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the

techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal

segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having

determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then

this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment

can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known

as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for

physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong,

Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany,

Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic

(neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School

of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western

Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 16, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Hemicrania-Continua---T~

Headache? Learn about its causes and remedies

What is the cause of the headache?


There can be several causes of headaches. Some of the more likely causes of headaches are stress and fatigue, tension, eye strain, dehydration, low blood sugar, migraine, viral infection, musculoskeletal conditions, hyper-mastication and sinusitis. In rare cases, headache could be a result of certain life-threatening conditions such as brain tumours, meningitis, encephalitis, cerebral aneurysms and extremely high blood pressure. Headache can also occur because of head injury. Erratic changes in estrogen levels during menstrual years may also cause headaches in some women.



Tension headache



Tension headache is one of the most common types of headache and can affect people of any age and sex. But it is more commonly reported by adults and is more common among women than men. Tension headache is characterised by pain in both the sides of the head, though it may sometimes be pointed to the neck or the front of the head. The pain often starts at the back of your head and spreads forward. Besides, this is the only type of headache in which pain persists continuously throughout the day and night without any relief in between. Tension headache occurs mainly due to stress, depression or anxiety, fatigue, poor posture, eye strain, tobacco and alcohol use.



Cluster headache


Cluster headache is a type of primary headache. Though it is rarely reported, cluster headache sufferers are mainly men especially those in the 28-30 age group; however, headaches may begin in childhood. Cluster headaches are characterised by sharp, extremely painful headaches that tend to occur several times per day for months and then go away for a similar period. Sometimes the pain caused by cluster headache is so intense that the scalp feels almost tender, the arteries can be seen pulsating and the patient is so uncomfortable that he finds it difficult to sit still.



Common remedies for headache relief


Headaches cannot be cured but it is possible to control them by taking appropriate measures depending on the type of headache a patient is suffering from, individual response as well as associated health conditions. While home remedies work for some people, others need to take medicines to control the pain. The medications available for headache can be taken prophylactically (to prevent headache occurrence) or abortively (once the headache begins). Lifestyle changes such as avoidance of headache triggers, stress management, and relaxation therapy are also recommended to provide timely headache relief.


Many people these days are also resorting to alternative drug-free therapies for headache relief. Cefaly electrotherapy device is one such treatment option that is being increasingly recommended by doctors. The scientifically advanced device emits gentle electric impulses that influence the pain-affected nerves; this makes you experience a state of relaxation and wellbeing. You need to wear the Cefaly device like a headband and attach it to the electrode placed on the forehead. In just a few minutes, it provides relief from a throbbing headache.



Autor: MarkBevan

Webmaster associated with Migraine Treatment related site. This site provides various information on Headache Treatment and Stress Treatment. Resources are available on site headclinic.co.uk

Added: November 15, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Headache--Learn-about-i~

Chronic Paroxysmal Hemicrania, Hemicrania Continua and Cluster Headache - All From The Same Disorder

In recent times the International Headache Society has added a third primary group of headache(s) to the two primary headache types - migraine and tension-type headache.

This third primary group includes Cluster headache, Chronic Paroxysmal Hemicrania, and SUNCT (Short lasting Unilateral Neuralgia form headache attack with Conjunctival injection and Tearing!) and Hemicrania Continua.

Chronic Paroxysmal Hemicrania is very similar to Cluster Headache and is often described as the female equivalent of Cluster Headache (Cluster Headache is more frequent in males).

It is interesting to note a report demonstrating that both chronic Paroxysmal Hemicrania and Hemicrania Continua (thought to be two different types of headache) respond to the same medication - Indomethacin. (Indomethacin is a non steroidal anti inflammatory drug used to reduce pain)

I have written before that Cluster Headache and Hemicrania Continua respond to blocking or injecting of the greater occipital nerve i.e. a feature of Cervicogenic (neck-related) Headache - just more evidence to support the role of neck disorders in many different headache forms .....

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist;. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 13, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Chronic-Paroxysmal-Hemi~

Hemicrania Continua and Cervicogenic neck-related Headache - Are They The Same Condition?

Interesting to note a case study reporting that the head pain of a patient suffering hemicrania continua was temporarily reproduced and resolved by neck movements and later by blocking or injecting the greater occipital nerve. These two features are key diagnostic signs of cervicogenic or neck related headache and indeed this respected researcher concludes this.

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist;. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 12, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Hemicrania-Continua-and~

Hemicrania Continua - What Is It?

I have mentioned Hemicrania Continua a few times in my blogs assuming that you are familiar with this condition.

Hemicrania Continua is a headache characterised by constant pain on one side of the head (and always on the same side), of moderate severity, with episodes of aggravation. Hemicrania responds to the medication known as Indomethacin.

Hemicrania Continua is included (along with Cluster headache, Chronic Paroxysmal Hemicrania, and SUNCT) in the third primary group of headache classified by the International headache Society.

As with all of the headache and migraine types, Hemicrania Continua is based on a set of signs and symptoms with no indication as to the cause.

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist;. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 11, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Hemicrania-Continua---W~

Migraine and Headache After Trauma - Post Traumatic Headache PTH

Headache is the most common symptom after a head injury. Post traumatic headaches, like non traumatic migraine and tension headache for some reason pose a significant challenge for clinicians and are surrounded by controversy. Because the neurological examination after mild head injury is normal and standard tests as well as imaging studies (such as MRI or CT of the head) fail to reveal abnormalities, it is often thought that the symptoms following mild head injury are psychological.

Why is it then that in the presence of any abnormal findings the focus on the head continues?

It is important that after a blow to the head an intracranial (within the head) cause of headache or migraine be ruled out. However once an intracranial cause has been eliminated, why then does the source of the headache or migraine become such a mystery?

If the head hits the windscreen for example, the body keeps moving; it is the neck which connects the head to a moving body and absorbs a significant amount of stress.

It is very important then that a skilled examination of the upper three spinal segments be performed and that prior to examination of the upper neck, assessment of crucial ligaments be undertaken - this is mandatory.

An examination of this nature may prevent years of frustration and unnecessary medication.

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist;. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 9, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Migraine-and-Headache-A~

Neck X-Rays, Headache and Migraine

Generally routine neck xrays are uninformative for headache or migraine sufferers. However, this does not exclude neck disorders as the source of headache or migraine.

Therefore xrays as a form of diagnosis are not highly regarded. Nevertheless it is very important that neck xrays be undertaken in the event of any significant head or neck trauma or injury.

It is information from structures supplied by the upper three cervical nerves which have access to the brainstem and therefore the potential to sensitise the brainstem. Consequently abnormalities seen on neck xrays, involving spinal segments below C3 (third cervical vertebra) are likely to be irrelevant. This is why it is crucial that when having a CT or MRI scan of your neck for headache that the upper 3 spinal segments are included.

Degenerative changes or spondylosis of C5-6 for example is irrelevant to the sensitisation process; information from this level does not have direct access to the brainstem.

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia


Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist;. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 7, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Neck-X-Rays--Headache-a~

Migraine In 1888 - The Same As In 2009!

Amazing! I have just come across a gentleman who in 1888 who described the migraine process in this way: "... we must not ascribe too much significance to throbbing of the increase in the pain by the cause of vascular distension; these may be due merely to the over sensitiveness of the central structures." In other words expansion of the blood vessels is unlikely to be the cause of pain; it may be that expansion of blood vessels is misinterpreted by a sensitised central nervous system.

This information from the blood vessels has to pass through the BRAINSTEM on the way to the cortex ... and what has been shown to be the disorder in headache and migraine? ... a SENSITISED BRAINSTEM.

A man 120 years before his time - Bravo!

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist;. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 6, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Migraine-In-1888---The-~

Is migraine troubling you? Find out how you can prevent migraine attacks

What happens in migraines?


Migraine symptoms vary in people. While most people experience migraine without auras some may have migraines with auras. In migraine with auras, patients get a warning sign 30 minutes before a migraine headache develops. When facing an aura, the patient normally witnesses sparkling flashes of light, blind spots, or distortions. Some also experience tingling or "pins-and-needles" sensation in their hands, arms, or face. However rare, some people also experience language and speech problems. In most cases though, the migraine pain begins within 30 minutes of seeing an aura. The moderate to severe migraine headache lasts from 4 to 72 hours. Other symptoms that you may experience during a migraine are extreme sensitivity to light, noise, and smells, nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite and fatigue, numbness, tingling, or weakness.



Can I prevent migraines?


There is no cure for migraine and hence the best way to treat chronic migraine is to prevent its occurrence. To prevent a migraine attack you need to recognize migraine triggers by keeping a headache diary and making efforts to avoid or alter these triggers. People who have frequent migraine attacks are recommended to take daily medications to reduce the severity or frequency of migraine attacks. Making certain lifestyle changes is another way of preventing migraines, in addition to taking appropriate sleep for scheduled number of hours, regular fixed meals and exercise; avoiding stress and caffeine; and limiting alcohol. Meditation and relaxation therapies may also help prevent migraine headaches.


What medicine will I need to take?


Medications are often used to prevent migraine attacks or to provide relief to patients facing migraine symptoms. The choice of drugs for migraine treatment depends on the type of migraine a person is suffering from. Usually the doctors begin treatment with mild non-prescription drugs to relieve the symptoms. Patients with severe migraine pains are given stronger prescription drugs. Some of the commonly used drugs to stop a migraine attack include NSAIDs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, triptans (serotonin receptor agonists), midrin, anti-nausea drugs and ergotamine derivatives, such as Cafergot. To prevent migraine attacks doctor may recommend beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, antidepressants or anticonvulsants that are approved by the FDA. Migraine medicine should only be taken on a doctor"s advice. Chronic use of migraine pain medications may result in rebound headache and hence should be avoided.



To reduce dependency on medicines and also to avoid their side effects, many migraine patients are taking help of drug-free alternative treatment options such as Cefaly electro-therapy device. Cefaly emits gentle electric pulses to alleviate pain. Regular use of Cefaly is known to reduce severity and frequency of migraine headaches. Ask your doctor, if you to can benefit from Cefaly; this will provide relief from disabling migraine attacks.



Autor: MarkBevan

Webmaster associated with headache related site. This site provides various information on migraine treatment, headache treatment and stress treatment. Resources are available on site headclinic.co.uk

Added: November 5, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/Is-migraine-troubling-y~

A Treatment Technique for Migraine Sufferers

How Clinical Research Physiotherapist, Dr Ian Davidson at Manchester University, is leading a clinical trial testing the effectiveness of fellow Physiotherapist Dean Watson"s treatment technique for migraine sufferers.

The study, which began recruiting in April 2007, is being carried out in three private physiotherapy practices in the northwest (two in Lancashire and one in Cheshire). The study was awarded 95,000 by Physio First through its charitable trust, the Private Physiotherapy Educational Foundation.

Patients have been recruited through the Migraine Action Association, local universities and GPs. Dr Davidson says around 90 are needed to complete the trial and 76 have been recruited so far, adding that a high attrition rate has made progress difficult. "We are about a year and a half away from completing," he says.

Patients are screened and asked to complete a diary before being referred for six physiotherapy sessions based on Mr Watson"s technique. "I hope the study does help towards developing an evidence base for headache physiotherapy," says Dr Davidson, adding: "I would hope from this trial I would be able to put in a proposal for a larger national trial."

Quoted in Frontline Magazine, Issue 17th June 2009, the official journal of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy in the United Kingdom, Titled "When Headache is a Pain the Neck" by Louise Hunt.

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YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 4, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/A-Treatment-Technique-f~

How One Particular Physiotherapy Technique Helps to Manage Migraines.

How a Migraine Sufferer benefited from the Manchester University"s Migraine Trial using the "Watson Headache Approach"

"I was really stuck in a rut. I couldn"t do anything without inducing a headache," says Ms Lord, who also suffered from a stiff neck and describes having a "fuzzy head" most of the time.

That was until she was invited to take part in the UK"s first study to identify whether one particular physiotherapy technique could help to manage migraines (see Building the evidence base,).

Having completed a patient diary and screening to rule out other possible causes of headache, Ms Lord was offered a series of six physiotherapy treatments. She says: "I felt a difference from the first treatment. I"m on my fifth now and with each one my headaches have been getting better... I still get the odd one, but now I can run and play with the kids."

She is aware of other effects too. "I feel like I"ve had a spring clean in my head. Colours are really vibrant, and when I went shopping the other day I noticed that I wasn"t getting confused," she says.

Quoted in Frontline Magazine, Issue 17th June 2009, the official journal of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy in the United Kingdom, Titled "When Headache is a Pain the Neck" by Louise Hunt.

* Share/Bookmark

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 3, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/How-One-Particular-Phys~

A Breakthrough in Treating Headache and Migraine

How a UK based Physiotherapist, Jayne Davies, has helped headache and migraine sufferers using the "Watson Headache Approach".

Physiotherapist Jayne Davies finds it frustrating that physiotherapy for headaches does not get the publicity it deserves. Ms Davies works in both the NHS and privately, and has trained in a variety of techniques for treating headaches.

She says a breakthrough only occurred in her work after taking Dean Watson"s course, and she is now an assistant teacher on the UK courses. "It"s quite amazing. I"ve had a lot of patients who have had migraines for years and they have gone completely after using Dean Watson"s treatment, although this doesn"t happen for everyone."
Quoted in Frontline Magazine, Issue 17th June 2009, the official journal of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy in the United Kingdom, Titled "When Headache is a Pain the Neck" by Louise Hunt

====

YourHeadacheSoultions.co.uk is one voice of the Watson Headache Institute.

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge; to present and discuss past and present relevant research and to undertake and support rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Appropriate and up-to-date knowledge is self-empowering; I believe that every headache sufferer has the right to know their headache diagnosis as precisely as possible (and what it means), to know the nature of their headache disorder, its outcome and possible types of treatment.

What has yet to gain acceptance is my (and that of others) belief, supported by my unparalleled clinical experience and a significant body of international research, that it is incorrect to consider headache and migraine types as totally different entities and that cervicogenic (neck) disorders can be instrumental in the headache and migraine process.

Although Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Osteopathy are different disciplines, we are supporters of the idea that headache and migraine sufferers, no matter what their diagnoses, can be helped to live their lives more effectively through appropriate neck treatment. However, because treatment of the neck does not fit the medical model of headache and migraine, the model has demonstrated little interest in exploring this as an option. It is essential that all factors, which have the potential to sensitise the brainstem, be investigated equally. Currently this is not the situation - the neck is largely disregarded.

So, whilst YourHeadacheSolutions.com is also about Education, it is also a directory for headache and migraine sufferers to source practitioners who have a particular interest in and are skilled in examination of the neck as a source of your headache or migraine - to create a more comprehensive approach and provide an alternative, medication-free treatment.

ver the past 15 years I have developed a series of techniques, which, by way of temporary reproduction of headache and easing of the headache as a technique is sustained, confirm that a neck disorder is the cause of or a significant factor in the mechanism of the headache or migraine - this a key diagnostic criterion for cervicogenic or neck involvement in headache according to the International Headache Society - importantly for the disorder to be related to the headache or migraine process the headache has to ease as the technique is maintained. If both reproduction and lessening are not possible then the neck may not be the source of the headache or migraine. Furthermore my experience has shown that if the techniques are performed in a specific manner it is possible to determine which spinal segment is the cause of or contributing significantly to headache and migraine. Having determined which spinal segment (or segments - there may be more than one) is involved then this significantly increases the chance of the treatment being successful because treatment can be directed at specific, relevant spinal segments.

The application of these techniques in Europe, United Kingdom and Australia has become known as the "Watson Headache Approach" and forms the basis of courses I present for physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, United Kingdom, Northern Ireland, Belgium, The Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, Norway and Spain - refer www.headacheeducation.com

The Watson Headache Institute was established to increase the awareness of cervicogenic (neck) disorders in headache and migraine by:

imparting my (and that of others) clinical experience and knowledge

and,

undertaking and supporting rigorous clinical and scientific research in this specialty.

Dean Watson

Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia

Autor: Dean Watson

Dean Watson of YourHeadache Solutions, Consultant Headache and Migraine Physiotherapist; Adjunct Lecturer, Masters Program, School of Physiotherapy, University of South Australia; PhD Candidate, Murdoch University, Western Australia. On his site you can search all topics about headache migraine, headache treatment, migraine treatment, headache causes, migraine causes headache symptoms and more.

Added: November 1, 2009
Source: http://articlerich.com/Article/A-Breakthrough-in-Treat~