Overview
Occipital nerve pain can cause persistent headaches and pain at the back of the head that may spread to the scalp, behind the eyes, or into the upper neck. An occipital nerve block is a targeted injection used to reduce inflammation and calm the nerve. If pain keeps returning, occipital nerve ablation can provide longer lasting relief by interrupting pain signals.
Who this treatment helps
This treatment may help if you have
1 Pain starting at the base of the skull and travelling upward
2 Tenderness over the back of the head or behind the ear
3 Headaches that worsen with neck movement or pressure on the area
4 Suspected occipital neuralgia
5 Cervicogenic headache
6 Chronic migraine with significant occipital pain component
A consultation is needed to confirm whether the occipital nerve is the main pain source.
What is an occipital nerve block
An occipital nerve block is a small injection of local anaesthetic, sometimes combined with an anti inflammatory medication, around the occipital nerve. The aim is to
1 Reduce irritation and inflammation around the nerve
2 Relieve pain and sensitivity
3 Improve function and quality of life
4 Help confirm the diagnosis, because good short term relief strongly suggests the occipital nerve is the pain generator
Relief can start quickly and may last from days to weeks, sometimes longer.
What is occipital nerve ablation
Occipital nerve ablation is usually performed using radiofrequency. It targets the pain carrying fibres to reduce pain signals. It is typically considered when
1 You get good relief from a diagnostic nerve block but it wears off
2 Pain is recurring and affecting daily life
3 You have not achieved lasting improvement with other treatments
Ablation may provide relief for months. Some patients need repeat treatment if symptoms return.
What to expect during the procedure
1 You will be positioned comfortably, usually lying face down or seated
2 The area is cleaned and numbed
3 Using guidance when appropriate, the clinician places the needle precisely near the nerve
4 The injection is given for a nerve block, or radiofrequency is applied for ablation
5 The procedure usually takes a short time and you can go home the same day
After the procedure
It is normal to have mild soreness at the injection site for a short period. You may be advised to
1 Take it easy for the rest of the day
2 Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours
3 Monitor your pain relief and symptom changes
Keeping a simple pain diary helps us measure how effective the treatment is.
Benefits
1 Targeted pain relief at the source
2 Can improve sleep, concentration, and daily function
3 Helps confirm diagnosis when used as a diagnostic block
4 Ablation may offer longer lasting relief when blocks wear off
Possible risks and side effects
All procedures carry some risks, though serious complications are uncommon. Possible effects include
1 Temporary increased pain or tenderness
2 Bruising or swelling
3 Temporary numbness of the scalp
4 Dizziness or lightheadedness
5 Infection or bleeding, rare
6 Allergic reaction to medication, rare
We will discuss your individual risks before treatment.
When to consider other options
If occipital nerve irritation is not the main cause, you may benefit more from a different treatment plan. We may recommend a combined approach including physiotherapy, medication optimisation, posture and neck rehabilitation, and other targeted injections depending on the diagnosis.