Treatment of Cervicogenic Headache & Migraine Using LLLT/PBMT

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) also known as Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) is the application of red and near infrared light over injuries to stimulate cellular repair.  LLLT is a highly effective, completely safe treatment in Melbourne, Victoria. It is painless, and has no effect on normal tissues.  LLLT treats the underlying cause of the injury unlike pain medication which just masks the pain. It is a treatment modality supported by research from reputable institutions including Harvard University and NASA. LLLT is an evidence-based treatment modality for causes of neck pain such as cervicogenic headache and migraine.

Gentle. Drug-Free. Clinically Proven

Neck,And,Head,Pain

Key Points

  • Cervicogenic headaches originate from dysfunction in the cervical spine (joints, discs, ligaments, muscles) and often mimic migraines or tension-type headaches.
  • Common causes include postural strain, cervical disc bulges, muscle tightness, past trauma (e.g. whiplash), and chronic inflammation in the neck.
  • Symptoms typically begin in the neck and radiate to the head, are one-sided, aggravated by neck movement or posture, and may include dizziness, neck stiffness, or reduced range of motion.
  • Cervicogenic migraines are migraines triggered or aggravated by cervical spine dysfunction, often with associated neck pain, aura, nausea, and light/sound sensitivity.
  • Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), or Photobiomodulation Therapy, offers a safe, drug-free, and clinically validated treatment that reduces inflammation, improves circulation, and stimulates tissue repair.
    • LLLT is ideal for sensitive or chronic conditions where other treatments (e.g. stretching, medications, injections) may aggravate symptoms or fail to resolve the underlying cause.
    • Unlike Botox™, which relaxes muscles for temporary relief, LLLT targets the root cause – chronic inflammation and tissue dysfunction – to promote long-term healing and recovery.
    • LLLT works by boosting ATP production, reducing oxidative stress, enhancing lymphatic drainage, and restoring normal muscle tone and nerve function – without mechanical strain.
  • Treatment is GP-led by Dr Shikha Parmar and delivered as part of a structured 6-week program under medical supervision.
  • Backed by 700+ RCTs and over 7,000 studies, LLLT is painless, non-invasive, and especially suitable for those with persistent cervicogenic headache or migraine who haven’t responded to conventional care.
Click here for FAQ/Costs

What are Cervicogenic Headaches?

Cervicogenic headaches are a type of headache that originates from the neck, typically caused by dysfunction or damage in the cervical spine, including joints, discs, ligaments, and muscles. Although the pain is felt in the head, the source lies in the upper cervical spine and surrounding tissues. This type of headache is often mistaken for migraine or tension-type headaches but has a distinct musculoskeletal origin.

Many patients also experience migraines triggered by neck dysfunction, particularly from prior injuries or chronic strain, blurring the line between classic migraine and cervicogenic headache.

Common Causes

Cervicogenic headaches commonly arise from:

  • Cervical disc bulges or degenerative changes irritating local tissues
  • Postural strain from prolonged computer or mobile device use
  • Neck muscle dysfunction or tightness from whiplash, falls, or sports injuries
  • Chronic inflammation in cervical joints or ligaments
  • Referred pain from deep neck structures
  • Intermittent migraine attacks triggered by flare-ups in chronic neck dysfunction

Symptoms

Bulging cervical discs may compress or irritate nerves and soft tissues, causing tightness and soreness in the neck muscles. These muscles are directly connected to the scalp and head, contributing to headache and migraine symptoms. This chronic cycle of inflammation, muscle spasm, and nerve irritation is what LLLT targets.

Cervicogenic headaches are referred pain from structures in the neck (e.g., joints, discs, muscles, nerves). They are secondary headaches, meaning the headache is a symptom of a cervical (neck) problem.

Common Symptoms of Cervicogenic Headache & Migraine:

  • Pain that starts in the neck and radiates to the head
  • Often begins in the base of the skull (suboccipital region) and may spread to the forehead, temple, eye area, or top of the head
  • One-sided head pain – typically affects only one side (unilateral), although it can occasionally switch sides.
    Often described as throbbing or pulsating pain in migrain
  • Reduced neck range of motion
  • Turning or moving the neck may increase the headache or feel restricted or painful
  • Headache triggered or worsened by neck movement or posture
    Prolonged sitting, looking down, or certain sleeping positions can exacerbate the headache
  • Tenderness over the upper cervical spine
    Palpation of the upper neck, especially the C1– C3 vertebrae, may reproduce the pain
  • Pain that may be deep, dull, aching, non-throbbing, and steady – not pulsating like a migraine
  • Associated neck symptoms: stiffness, muscle tightness, or even shoulder/arm discomfort on the affected side
  • Sometimes associated with dizziness or light-headedness – especially if the upper cervical spine is involved.
Cervicogenic Migraines

These are essentially migraines with cervical musculoskeletal contributors which may be triggered or aggravated by neck dysfunction. They present as migraines (a primary headache disorder), but with clear neck involvement

In addition to the symptoms mentioned above there may be:

    • Sensitivity to light, sound, and/or smell
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Visual disturbances or aura
    • Headache attacks lasting 4–72 hours
    • Triggers include neck strain, poor posture, or cervical spine irritation

How are Cervicogenic Headaches & Migraines diagnosed?

Diagnosing cervicogenic headache involves a thorough assessment by a healthcare professional to identify any underlying cervical spine dysfunction. Dr Shikha Parmar will begin by reviewing your medical history, including any recent neck injuries, posture-related habits, and the onset of symptoms. The following diagnostic methods are commonly used to confirm a cervicogenic headache:

Key Diagnostic Steps:

  • Medical History: A detailed inquiry into the onset of headaches, frequency, triggers, neck pain, and any previous injuries such as whiplash.
  • Physical Examination: Palpation and movement tests to assess neck muscle tension, tenderness, and restricted movement. A specific test for cervicogenic headache involves applying pressure to certain areas in the cervical spine, such as the C1–C3 vertebrae, to see if it reproduces the headache.
  • Imaging: In some cases, X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be used to rule out other causes, such as disc herniations, arthritis, or bone spurs, that might be contributing to nerve irritation or compression in the cervical spine.
  • Nerve Testing: If nerve involvement is suspected (such as in cervical radiculopathy), an EMG (electromyography) or nerve conduction study may be used to evaluate nerve function.
The diagnosis of cervicogenic headache typically relies on clinical criteria, where the headache originates from the neck, and symptoms are reproduced through neck movement or pressure on the cervical spine.

Cervicogenic Headaches & Migraines – Treatment Overview

 

Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), also known as Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT), is a gentle, evidence-based treatment that targets the underlying cause of cervicogenic headaches and migraine: inflammation and dysfunction within the cervical spine. It promotes healing without mechanical stress to sensitive neck tissues.

Why Choose Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)?

Many patients present after limited relief from medications, physiotherapy, or massage. These approaches may reduce symptoms temporarily but often fail to address deeper cervical inflammation and micro-trauma and may worsen symptoms if stretching or exercise is introduced too early.

Why ice, anti-inflammatories, cortisone, and PRP may not support long-term recovery. Read more here.

How LLLT Supports Healing

LLLT uses red and near-infrared light to restore balance to the inflammatory process and stimulate soft tissue and nerve repair by:

  • Improving circulation and oxygenation
  • Enhancing lymphatic drainage
  • Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress
  • Increasing cellular energy (ATP)
  • Normalising muscle tone

All without loading or stressing the cervical spine.

cervicalcloseup

Treating the Symptom vs Healing the Cause

  • Botox™: Relieves chronic migraine or tension-type headache symptoms by relaxing tense scalp and neck muscles. Provides temporary symptom relief but doesn’t address the underlying cause (microtrauma, inflammation, tissue dysfunction).

  • Cervical Support: Soft collars may help short-term, but LLLT restores function by reducing inflammation and rebalancing muscles, making it a strong first-line treatment for cervicogenic headaches and migraines.

  • Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): Promotes true healing at the cellular level by regenerating tissue, reducing inflammation, and restoring healthy muscle and joint function.
Cervical

Proven, Safe, and Effective

It is non-invasive, painless, and supported by extensive clinical research. Read more here.

See how LLLT helps restore the cellular environment needed for repair here.

Our Treatment Program

All patients are assessed by Dr Shikha Parmar (GP). Treatment is delivered within a structured six-week program, including:

  • Up to 12 LLLT sessions
  • Review after 6 sessions
  • Individualised advice and activity modification
  • Guided rehabilitation for durable recovery

Patients who respond typically show 15–20% improvement within the first 6 sessions, with best-case improvement of 70–90% over the full program. 

View the full treatment protocol and expected outcomes here.

Ready for Lasting Relief?

If you are struggling with cervicogenic headaches and migraines, we invite you to contact our experienced team at Laser Pain Therapy. Our LLLT treatment offers a safe, effective, and lasting solution to restore your comfort, mobility, and quality of life.

Contact us today to arrange your consultation and take the first step towards recovery.

📍 Located in Melbourne
 📞 (03) 8529 2225 Contact Us

View treatment cost here

Cost / FAQ

At Laser Pain Therapy, we use the terms Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) and Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) interchangeably, as they both refer to the same therapeutic approach. “LLLT” specifically focuses on the use of laser light, while “PBMT” is the broader scientific term describing how light interacts with the body to promote healing.

Both therapies stimulate cellular activity, reduce inflammation, repair tissue, and accelerate the healing process.

The initial consultation with Dr Shikha Parmar requires up to 60 minutes where your condition is fully assessed along with your medical history. Dr Parmar will take a thorough history of your problem from its onset, through its progression to now. She will review any imaging reports pertaining to your problem, and may recommend further investigations. Dr Parmar will give you a detailed explanation of your problem, and will discuss our holistic approach and management plan including the utilisation of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT). If your condition is amenable to LLLT the treatment is commenced at the initial consultation. A medical consultation with Dr Shikha Parmar, GP, is billed and is rebatable through Medicare for patients who hold a Medicare card.

The fee for an initial consultation including Low Level Laser Therapy treatment is $257.00. This includes a Medicare rebate for the GP consultation of $84.90, the out of pocket cost being $172.10.

Pension and Health Care Card holders receive a further reduced fee for the initial consultation of $207.00 only with the out of pocket fee (gap fee) being $122.10.

For each subsequent follow-up consultation  involving review of progress, tailored advice and management etc, and Low Level Laser Therapy treatment, a fee of $129.25 applies. This includes a Medicare rebate for the GP consultation of $43.90, the out of pocket cost (gap fee) being $85.35.

Longer review visits are charged at $210.20 which includes a Medicare rebate $84.90, the out-of-pocket cost being $125.30.
An $8.00 surcharge applies to appointments after 6pm.

Fees may be subject to change and will be confirmed with you at the time of booking. We utilise state of the art equipment from Europe and the USA operated with the assistance of highly trained clinic assistants.  No further rebate can be claimed from private health insurance. We are unable to offer bulk billing.

Yes.  LLLT has been in active and beneficial use in Europe for nearly 30 years. There are more than 200 double blind positive studies confirming the clinical effect of LLLT.
Published in the world’s top scientific journals:

  • Nature, Pain, PNS, Blood, BMJ, Spine, Muscle and Nerve, The Lancet, Circulation, BJSM
  • 30 LLLT papers published a month
  • Over 4000 laboratory studies and over 400 randomised controlled trials

Over 2,500 clinical studies and published research reports have shown the effectiveness of LLLT for a variety of health issues. Looking at the limited LLLT dental literature alone (370 studies), more than 90% of these studies do verify the clinical value of laser therapy.
LLLT has been a staple in veterinary practices for decades.
In the past 6 years, professional sports teams have begun utilising LLLT.

In the last 10 years 8 systematic reviews have found in favour of LLLT

  • American College of Physicians Guidelines include a “strong recommendation” for Low-Level Laser Therapy as a non-invasive Treatments for Acute, Subacute & Chronic Low Back Pain. (2017) Click here
  • BMJ LLLT for chronic non-specific low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials found “moderate quality of evidence” and “clinically important benefits” in the short term. (2016) Click here
  • BMJ sports medicine journal, systematic review of surgical and conservative interventions for frozen shoulder found “strong evidence” for LLLT. (2010) Click here
  • The BMJ clinical evidence recommendations for tennis elbow 2011 now include LLLT Click here
  • American Physical Therapy Association guidelines recommend LLLT for Achilles tendonitis. (2010) Click here
  • Lancet systematic review: “LLLT reduces pain immediately after treatment in acute neck pain and up to 22 weeks after completion of treatment in patients with chronic neck pain”. (2009) Click here
  • World Health Organisation (Bone and Joint Task Force) for neck pain Low Level Laser Therapy “more effective than no treatment, sham, or alternative interventions” (2008) Click here

Laser Therapy does not heat or cut tissue, unlike high intensity lasers. The question is often asked “If it’s a laser aren’t they used in surgical operations, to cauterise tissue?” The answer is “Yes” – hot lasers are able to cauterise (cut) tissue. However, the ones we use are “Low Level Lasers” of class 3B, the most researched and proven class in LLLT, and with designed parameters that make it impossible to damage even one cell in the body. Our lasers stimulate and energise the cells.

In the past 4 years, the FDA has ruled that LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy) is safe and the only contraindication (warning) is not to use it directly in the eyes.

For the past 30 years the technology of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) has been formally accepted in many parts of the world such as Canada, USA, Brazil, Europe, Scandinavia, Russia and Japan. In all this time there have been no recorded long-term adverse effects from its use. It is considered to be non-invasive, painless and safe.

Industry has been using laser diodes for years in such applications as barcode readers, CD players, DVD players, laser printers and pointers. The FDA has listed bio-stimulation lasers as non-significant risk (NSR) devices.

Hundreds of research studies have shown Laser Therapy to be safe and effective. Laser Therapy is non-invasive, non-toxic and non-thermal. Unlike other forms of radiation, Laser Therapy is beneficial rather than harmful to tissue. Over 400 LLLT clinical trials (RCTs) and over 2500 laboratory studies have been published. It has proven more effective and safer than pharmaceutical anti-inflammatories across a range of musculoskeletal conditions.

LLLT also improves healing and reduces muscle fatigue, muscle damage and delayed onset muscle soreness or DOMS.

There are normally no adverse effects from LLLT, however, patients occasionally experience mild discomfort/ache after treatment. This is due to a restimulation of the inflammatory phase and should settle down after 24 – 48 hours.

The answer is no. No mutational effects have been observed resulting from light with wavelengths in the red or infrared range and of doses used within LLLT. But what happens if I treat someone who has cancer and is unaware of it? Can the cancer’s growth be stimulated? The effects of LLLT on cancer cells in vitro have been studied, and it was observed that they could be stimulated by laser light. However, with respect to a cancer in vivo, the situation is rather different. Experiments on rats have shown that small tumours treated with LLLT can recede and completely disappear, although laser treatment had no effect on tumours over a certain size. It is probably the local immune system, which is stimulated more than the tumour.

The situation is the same for bacteria and virus in culture. These are stimulated by laser light in certain doses, while a bacterial or viral infection is eradicated more quickly after treatment with LLLT.

Laser Therapy should be avoided in the following instances:

  • Over the womb for women in pregnancy
  • Over cancerous tumour, primary or secondary (LLLT is not a treatment for these conditions)
  • Direct irradiation of the eyes

At Laser Pain Therapy, we use state-of-the-art, TGA-approved laser devices, applied by highly trained assistants. Our laser devices deliver the appropriate red and infrared laser energy to trigger the desired tissue response. With the application of up to 37 diodes (laser lights) across multiple devices, we ensure time-efficient treatment without compromising dosage or energy delivery. Unlike LED devices, our laser technology provides deeper penetration and more effective tissue healing.

Dr Shikha Parmar, an experienced GP with over 30 years in General Practice and 14 years of expertise in photobiomodulation therapy, leads our clinic, making her one of the most experienced doctors in this field. Treatment at Laser Pain Therapy is medically supervised, ensuring each patient receives a thorough assessment that takes into account not only their presenting condition but also relevant health factors, such as co-morbidities, medications, lifestyle, work, personal activity demands, and nutritional deficiencies. This holistic approach allows us to tailor care with LLLT at the core, supported by personalised advice.

Additionally, our treatment plans are finite, with clear goal-setting and regular progress reviews, ensuring that each patient is on track towards long-term recovery and optimal outcomes.

At Laser Pain Therapy, we use advanced equipment with laser diodes, not LED lights. Unlike LEDs, laser diodes provide more focused light with deeper penetration, making them significantly more effective for treating musculoskeletal conditions.

Our state-of-the-art equipment features 37 laser diodes, allowing us to efficiently cover a larger surface area. This optimises treatment time, ensuring deeper penetration for superior results. Unlike devices that use just 2-4 diodes, our technology delivers more effective treatment in less time, promoting faster healing, reduced inflammation, and long-lasting pain relief.

The effects of LLLT are accumulative. The good news is that for most patients undergoing a treatment program, the results from the treatments are sustained. While some patients get immediate results, improvements are often not noticed until after 3 to 5 treatments. Most patients usually require 6-12 treatments to achieve resolution of the problem or a lasting effect.

More severe conditions will require more treatments than less severe injuries. Since each person’s condition varies in severity the doctor will determine after reviewing your condition how laser treatments may benefit you and how many you might require

Your situation will be assessed after 6 treatments and if there is no improvement after 6 to 8 treatments (very uncommon), LLLT will not be continued and alternatives will be looked at for your future management.

You will need to follow precautions in order to avoid re-injury or the pain may return. Low Level Laser Therapy not only helps injured tissues heal faster, it also makes them stronger and less vulnerable to re-injury.

Contact us to book a consultation at our clinic or to learn more about how this form of therapy could help you.

No. Low level lasers do not generate perceivable heat. Therefore, when the laser contacts the skin the patient experiences no burning as a result of the laser. Most people feel nothing at all while a few may feel a slight tingling or warmth during the treatment.

No. As Dr Shikha Parmar is a General Practitioner a doctor’s referral is not required.

With our dedicated clinic in Melbourne, contact us at Laser Pain Therapy to discuss how we can assist you

Images and Illustrations Disclaimer
Please note that the images, diagrams, and illustrations used on this website are for demonstration and illustrative purposes only. They are intended to provide a general overview of Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) and Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT). The specific methods and equipment we use at Laser Pain Therapy may differ from those depicted. For instance, while some images may show a small laser being applied to the skin, we utilise advanced cluster lasers equipped with multiple diodes, offering superior coverage and effectiveness for treating musculoskeletal conditions. Our treatment protocols are tailored to each patient’s unique needs, using the latest technology for optimal results.

Get In Touch

Expect reply within 3 business days. Please check your spam folder.

“The use of low levels of visible or near infrared light for reducing pain, inflammation and edema, promoting healing of wounds, deeper tissues and nerves, and preventing cell death and tissue damage has been known for over forty years”.

Associate Professor, Harvard Medical School: Mechanisms of Low Level Light Therapy (2006). Proceedings of SPIE, 6140, 614001

review

Connect With Us:

Instagram Facebook
Laser Pain Therapy

South Yarra, Victoria
Suite 8, 200 Toorak Road
(Ground floor from William St)
South Yarra, Vic 3141
Ph: 03 8529 2225
Email us:
info@laserpaintherapy.com.au

Easy free street parking:
If driving you will find many free 1P and 2P spots on and around Toorak Rd and William St near the clinic.

Map Location

TRANSPORT ACCESS: Train: South Yarra Station, 100m, 1 minute walk Tram: Route 58, stop no. 127
Call now: 03 8529 2225
Contact Us

Our Mission

We are dedicated to helping our patients with the most technically advanced, proven and affordable medical therapies. Our treatment modalities offer evidence-based, safe, non-invasive and painless solutions to improve health, well-being and quality of life.

Disclaimer

The contents of this website have not been evaluated by the Australian Government Department of Health. The information of this site is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Individual articles are based upon the opinions of the author, who retains copyright as listed…..Continue Reading

Scroll to Top