Occipital Neuralgia / Occipital Headache

Occipital Neuralgia / Occipital Headache

Occipital neuralgia is a condition characterized by frequent and severe headaches that begin at the back and side of the head in a “ram’s horn” pattern that can cause pressure behind the eyes and a sensitivity to light. The attacks can last for days, making even routine daily tasks difficult to accomplish. The condition is caused by irritation of the spinal nerves in the cervical spine, specifically, at the level of the C2-C3 vertebrae.

The treatment plan for occipital neuralgia/occipital headache depends upon many factors, such as the severity of the dysfunction and pain, the type and location of the pain, as well as patient’s age, ongoing medical conditions, and ability to tolerate other medical therapies. The doctor will take all of these factors into consideration when prescribing a treatment plan.

In general, the standard course of therapy will follow the chronic pain treatment continuum, and may include medications to relieve pain and muscle spasms, localized injections, physical therapy, or massage.

Recently, there has been promising result with implantation of a peripheral nerve stimulator. You doctor can tell you if you are a candidate for this procedure.

Pulsed radiofrequency treatment of the occipital nerves in refractory cases can result in prolonged pain relief.