Watson Headache Course – Level I

I have been mentioning the courses I present to physiotherapists, chiropractors and osteopaths without explaining what it is that we cover.

The Level I course is called:

“The Role of CO-C3 Segmental Dysfunction in Primary Headache”

This course essentially looks at information from the top three spinal joints (which affects the brainstem, and we know the brainstem is sensitised in headache and migraine sufferers) and whether these joints are involved in the headache or migraine process.

The course looks at how the medical model of headache classifies headache and migraine; then I present the research i.e. what is in the literature, which actually contradicts the traditional medical model and supports my clinical experience of over 21000 hours, that is, the necks of all headache or migraine sufferers should be examined irrespective of the diagnosis.

As a result of my experience I have developed a verbal examination (often called the ‘subjective examination’) which includes the area of headache, history and behaviour of symptoms. From this we can tell if there is change in headache or migraine symptoms.

It is important that, before we examine the upper neck, tests of neck arteries are performed and also ligaments of the upper neck. I am not happy with the traditionally taught tests – I think they are too (and unnecessarily) aggressive on potentially already damaged ligaments. I demonstrate (and we practice) tests which are much less aggressive.

Then I demonstrate and we practice (on each other) techniques I have developed, which not only identify if neck disorders are the cause of headache or migraine symptoms but also which joint it is that is causing the problem. If we can identify the joint or spinal segment involved, the chances of getting a successful outcome increases significantly because treatment can then be directed at the source.

I finish the course by examining two headache or migraine sufferers, so course delegates can see everything put into practice.

Then after at least 6 months experience using this approach, course delegates then return for the Level II Advanced course.

Cheers

Dean

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