My Experience with the Watson Headache Approach: A Gentle Neck Treatment for Concussion Recovery

Three weeks ago, I decided to finally focus on something I had been neglecting for years: my neck. After sustaining both a concussion and whiplash eight years ago, I never gave my neck the attention it truly needed — until now. Let's dive into this Watson Headache Approach.

80% of concussion patients have neck problems

If you’ve experienced a concussion, you might not realize just how often the neck is involved. Research shows that around 80% of concussion patients also have neck problems. This can cause persistent neck pain, tension, dizziness, balance issues, and even affect vision.

For me, it was a constant tension in my neck that I ignored for years. Over time, I noticed it also brought along more anxiety and fatigue, symptoms I now understand were connected to my neck’s condition.

What Is the Watson Headache Approach?

The Watson Headache Approach is a specialized, gentle technique developed to treat headaches and neck pain caused by issues in the upper cervical spine — specifically the vertebrae called C0, C1, C2, and C3. This approach focuses on restoring alignment and mobility in these upper neck vertebrae.

Unlike some harsher treatments like chiropractic adjustments, the Watson method uses careful pressure and precise movements. It’s designed to be safe and comfortable, especially for people recovering from concussion or whiplash.

How Does the Watson Method Work?

This technique targets the upper cervical spine because misalignments or dysfunctions here can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Neck tension and pain

• Headaches and migraines

• Dizziness and balance problems

• Visual disturbances

• Fatigue and brain fog

By gently realigning the C0 to C3 vertebrae and improving their movement, the Watson method helps relieve these symptoms. It also encourages the nervous system to relax and heal, reducing the chronic fight-or-flight stress many concussion patients experience.

My Personal Experience with the Watson Headache Approach

After hearing from many people recommending this method, I found a practitioner near me at the International Headache Institute in The Netherlands. Over two weeks, I had five sessions, each about two hours away from where I live.

From the very first session, I felt relief — my neck tension eased, my mind became clearer, and I even noticed less fatigue. The treatment did leave me feeling tired afterward, which my therapist explained was normal as my nervous system began to relax.

As I continue my treatment, I’m hopeful and excited. This gentle neck therapy feels like a crucial missing piece in my recovery puzzle — something I wish I had discovered much earlier.

Is the Watson Headache Approach Right for You?

If you suffer from ongoing neck pain, dizziness, balance issues, or vision problems after a concussion or whiplash, I highly recommend considering the Watson Headache Approach. It is:

• Gentle and safe for concussion recovery

• Specifically targets the upper cervical spine (C0-C3)

• Shown to relieve headaches, neck tension, and related symptoms

For Dutch readers, I personally recommend PollyAnne at the International Headache Institute. She is highly trained in this technique and has helped many patients regain their quality of life.

Final Thoughts

The road to recovery after a concussion or whiplash can be long and confusing, but don’t overlook the role of your neck in your healing process. The Watson Headache Approach might just be the key to unlocking relief and progress.

If you decide to try this method or have any questions, feel free to reach out — I’d love to hear from you!

7 things that have helped me the most in concussion recovery

What helped you the most?" I received this question daily in my inbox. That's why I created a free eBook so you can clearly see what truly aided my recovery.

These things helped me to:

✔️ reduce fatigue & brain fog

✔️ have more energy ✔️ improve my sleep ✔️ feel less stressed

✔️ exercise again (finally!) ✔️ have a better mood

Download it for free: