Occipital Nerve Block

The headache almost never stops. The headache that is localized or following a "ram's horn" pattern on the side of the head, often starting in the upper neck or base of the skull. It can be one-sided or on both sides. The scalp that is tender to the touch, often hypersensitive. Even brushing your hair can be a painful experience. Pressure on that area can either bring headache relief or increase the pressure or pain. Reduced ability to rotate or flex the neck. Shoulder pain. Pain or pressure behind the eyes. Eyes are very sensitive to light, especially when the headache is present.

The occipital nerves are two pairs of nerves (the lesser and greater occipital nerves) that originate in the area of the second and third vertebrae of the neck. Commonly, the nerves are inflamed and sensitive because they are trapped within the muscles through which they pass. Muscle spasm and pain are often associated with nerve entrapment, which causes localized pain, spasms and muscle cramping.

Treatment of occipital neuralgia may involve localized therapeutic injections.