Occipital Nerve Blocks

BACKGROUND

  • Occipital nerves emerge from between bones of the spine in the upper neck and make their way to the base and top of the head.

  • Irritation to the occipital nerves can cause certain types of headaches known as occipital neuralgia.

PROCEDURE

  • Injection of a steroid and local anesthetic around the greater and lesser occipital nerves may reduce inflammation and swelling.

  • Occipital headache relief can last for several months.