​ASKPHYSIO

A vascular headache is typically termed a ‘migraine’.  

A history of 5 or more similar headaches is necessary to be diagnosed as a migraine sufferer.

A migraine headache is one that:

• has a sudden onset

• causes inability to carry on with normal activities of daily living

• will be one sided

• has a throbbing nature

• causes nausea

• causes visual disturbances (loss peripheral vision, flashing) onset 20 min before headache

• causes vertigo

• has a duration of hours

• can be aggravated by climbing stairs

• can be eased with migraine medication

• can be eased with vomiting

• Triggers such as sensitivity to light, smells, foods, noise

• Possible family history

• Medication (endocrine – oral contraceptive, HRT, or vasodilators)

• Stress

• Tiredness

• Medication (eg sumatriptan or aspirin)

• Lie in dark room

• Identify triggers and avoid them

• Likely to be an ongoing issue

• Trigger identification is important

• Patients generally become good at sensing the onset and manage their condition appropriately (often with medication).

• Joint mobilisation or manipulation

• Massage

• Muscle and neural stretches

• Acupuncture or dry needling

• Pilates exercises and deep cervical flexor education

• Ergonomic advice (e.g. - workstation setup; correct pillow height)Joint mobilisation or manipulation

• Posture awareness and advice