What is occipital neuralgia?
Occipital neuralgia is a condition that happens when the occipital nerves in the neck and head are irritated. It is often caused by compression of the nerves, which can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
- Trauma
- Inflammation
- Muscle tension
What are the symptoms of occipital neuralgia?
Symptoms of occipital neuralgia include:
- Migraine-type headache with sharp, stabbing pain
- Pain that starts at the base of the head and radiates up the scalp
- Pain on either side of the head and behind the eye
- Pain with neck motion
- Sensitivity to light
How is occipital neuralgia diagnosed?
Diagnosis of occipital neuralgia often includes an anesthetic nerve block of the occipital nerves. This helps to identify the source of the symptoms, making the plan of treatment more focused and leading to a more effective outcome.
How is occipital neuralgia treated nonsurgically?
Nonsurgical treatment options for occipital neuralgia include:
- Medication
- Electrical stimulation
- Injections
- Self-care, including massage therapy and relaxation techniques
Summit Orthopedics offers comprehensive spine expertise
Summit’s spine care team is recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance for the comprehensive expertise of our patient-centered care. Our back specialists diagnose spine problems and design custom treatment plans built on a conservative, nonsurgical approach. Most patients find relief through treatments including guided injections, specialized physical therapy, biofeedback, exercise, activity modification, and medication. When conservative care does not relieve symptoms, our highly skilled surgeons offer proven, evidence-based surgical options. Together with you, we will determine the right course of action.
Start your journey to a healthy spine. Find your spine expert, request an appointment online, or call us at (651) 968–5201 to schedule a spine consultation.
Summit has convenient locations across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin. We have state-of-the-art centers for comprehensive orthopedic care in Eagan, MN, Vadnais Heights, MN, and Woodbury, MN, as well as additional community clinics throughout the metro and southern Minnesota.
More resources for you:
- Visit our Spine Exercise Library for options to help ease neck and back pain
- See Summit’s treatment options for neck, back, and spine care
- Check out additional information on Summit’s approach to spine care
