Headache, migraine and dizziness resources
Osteopathy for headaches: what to expect from an assessment
Melbourne Headache Solutions. First published 18 April 2023. Recovered and editorially updated 28 October 2026 from our archived resource. This is general education, not an individual diagnosis.
Quick answer
An osteopathic headache assessment can explore whether neck, jaw or other physical symptoms are relevant to your presentation. Care should be individual, explained clearly and coordinated with medical treatment when needed. Osteopathy is not a guaranteed migraine cure or a replacement for medical diagnosis.
What happens before treatment?
Expect questions about when headaches began, their frequency, associated symptoms, medicines, previous treatment and what matters most to you. Tell your practitioner about changing symptoms, injuries, other health conditions and any investigations already completed.
The original MHS article described taking a detailed history before examining movement and relevant areas of discomfort. That sequence matters: a treatment should follow the assessment, rather than begin with an assumption that posture or spinal alignment explains every headache.
What might the physical assessment include?
Depending on your history, the practitioner may examine neck movement, muscle tenderness, jaw function or other relevant findings. They should explain what is being assessed and obtain consent. Let them know if a movement causes dizziness, unusual pain or other symptoms.
MHS describes its approach as including upper-neck assessment, gentle hands-on care and individually selected advice or exercises. Ask which parts are relevant to you and what alternatives are available. You can decline any technique or ask for it to stop.
What is a useful treatment plan?
Agree on practical outcomes such as fewer disrupted days, improved movement or better tolerance of normal activities. Ask how long to try the plan, when progress will be reviewed and what happens if you are not improving.
Medicines and physical care can have different, complementary roles. Continue prescribed treatment unless your prescriber advises a change. If the history suggests a medical or neurological problem, the appropriate step may be referral rather than hands-on care.
How do I prepare?
Bring your headache record, medicine list and relevant reports. Write down what has helped, what has not and the questions you want answered. You do not need to prove that your neck is the cause before booking an assessment.
Headache and migraine assessment in Melbourne
If recurring symptoms are disrupting your day, you can discuss your history and next steps with Melbourne Headache Solutions. We have clinics in Brunswick, Fitzroy North and Thornbury. Check the current team and appointment options before booking.
What we assess · Meet the team · Book an initial consultation · Call (03) 9486 7543