Can Migraines Be Prevented?
Migraines can be debilitating if left unmanaged. A common question we hear is, can migraines be prevented? The short answer is yes. For many people, reducing migraine frequency and intensity is possible with the right mix of lifestyle strategies, physiotherapy, and, when needed, support from a neurologist.
At Bangalow Headache Neck & Jaw Clinic, we focus on identifying a small fault at the top of your neck that can lead to central sensitisation of your brainstem. If this fault is identified and treated we can aim to either eliminate headache or migraine or reduce the frequency, duration and intensity of headache/migraine. We can also help clients identify and manage their unique triggers so that any remnant headache/migraine can be better managed. Our approach combines hands-on treatment with practical guidance to support long-term relief.
Understanding Migraine Triggers
Migraines often have multiple contributing factors. Common triggers include diet, disrupted sleep, poor posture, hormonal changes, and stress. Consistent daily routines, involving regular sleep, meals, and hydration, can help reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
Combining behavioural strategies with preventive treatments is effective in avoiding chronic migraine in many cases.
Physio-Backed Migraine Prevention Tips
Each person’s migraine pattern is different. Here’s how we approach migraine prevention through physiotherapy:
Posture and Movement Support
Chronic tension in the neck, shoulders, and jaw can be a hidden trigger. We assess posture and alignment, then provide exercises and manual therapy to reduce strain and improve mobility.
Build Consistent Routines
Daily rhythms matter. Regular exercise without excessive straining, quality sleep, hydration, and balanced meals all support migraine prevention. These foundational habits are often where we begin.
Reduce Stress Through Movement
Stress is one of the most common migraine triggers, see our blog on can stress cause migraines. We help you manage it using movement-based techniques like gentle stretching, guided breathing, and body awareness practices.
Address Jaw Tension
Many clients unknowingly clench or grind their teeth, especially under stress. We evaluate jaw function and provide targeted treatment to relieve tension that can contribute to migraine.
Collaborative Care
At Bangalow Headache Clinic, we specialise in natural, drug-free migraine care, focusing on the interplay between biomechanics, neurology, and the brainstem. Our lead physiotherapist is highly trained in assessing and treating the physical drivers of migraine, including neck dysfunction, jaw tension, and postural imbalances.
We understand that migraines are complex and multifaceted. That’s why we collaborate with a network of trusted health professionals—including neurologists, neurosurgeons, dentists, and general practitioners, to ensure a comprehensive approach to your care. In some cases, additional support options such as Botox, CGRP monoclonal antibodies, or neuromodulation devices may be explored in consultation with your medical team. For more information on these treatments, you can refer toHeadache Australia’s prevention strategies and treatment guide.
Our role is to help identify the root causes of your migraines, provide effective hands-on treatment, and guide you toward long-term relief—whether through our care alone or as part of a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach.
7 Simple Migraine Prevention Tips
- Stick to a consistent sleep schedule
- Move daily with gentle exercise or stretching
- Stay hydrated throughout the day
- Pay attention to jaw tension and clenching
- Take regular breaks from screens
- Practise calming breathing techniques
- Keep a migraine journal to track triggers and patterns
Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Disrupted sleep patterns are a common migraine trigger, and a steady routine supports healthy brain and hormone function.
Regular low-impact activity like walking, swimming, or yoga can help reduce tension, improve circulation, and regulate stress hormones, all of which play a role in migraine prevention.
Even mild dehydration can trigger headaches. Aim to drink water consistently rather than in large amounts at once, and be mindful of alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to fluid loss.
Stress often shows up in the jaw. If you notice tightness, teeth grinding, or jaw discomfort, especially in the morning, addressing it through jaw exercises or physiotherapy can help prevent migraines.
Staring at a screen for hours can lead to eye strain, poor posture, and muscle fatigue, all of which may contribute to migraines. Try the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
Simple breathing practices can calm the nervous system and reduce tension. Even five minutes of slow, diaphragmatic breathing daily can help break the stress-migraine cycle.
Noting when your migraines happen, what you ate, how you slept, and your stress levels can reveal patterns over time. This information helps us tailor your treatment plan more effectively.
Long-Term Migraine Prevention Starts Here
Preventing migraines is about building lasting strategies that support your health. If you’ve ever felt discouraged by ongoing migraines or asked yourself how to prevent migraines, we can help.
Our full assessment explores posture, movement, jaw mechanics, stress patterns, and lifestyle habits. We tailor treatment to your needs, and when necessary, work with other health professionals to build a plan that works for you over the long term.
Take Control of Your Migraines – Book Your Assessment Today
You don’t have to manage migraines on your own. If you’re ready to reduce their impact and feel like yourself again, book a consultation with Bangalow Headache Neck & Jaw Clinic. Our natural, physiotherapy-based approach focuses on prevention, not just symptom relief.
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Michael Hayward is a physiotherapist with 28 years experience. With 24 years in private practice working in musculoskeletal injuries covering the whole body and special interest in sports injury and headaches, Michael developed a keen interest in new and proven techniques for treating headaches, migraines, jaw pain & dizziness .
