(mods please move if in the wrong area, as i cant seem to find where else to put it)

My daughter (17mths) has been waking about 1.30am EVERY Night for the past 4 months, crying and sounding really upset. when i go in to settle her she loses the plot throws herself at the side of the cot . i finally manage to get her out and it doesnt matter what i do i cant settle her. i put her down she screams louder. pick her up she pinches and hits and crys.

I am at wits end, i just dont know what to do, i have tried ignoring it and hoping she settles her self back down (some times it works but nomally it doesnt).

WHAT DO I DO!!!!!
i dont really want to get into the habit of giving her milk (i have some times and she settles until it all gone)