People with occipital neuralgia often describe the pain as sharp, stabbing, or electric shock-like, starting at the base of the skull and radiating up toward the scalp or behind the eyes. Cervicogenic headache pain is usually dull, aching, and pressure-like, beginning in the neck or back of the head and spreading forward.
Occipital neuralgia may be triggered by irritation of the occipital nerves from tight neck muscles, injuries, pinched nerves, or even long-term poor posture. Cervicogenic headaches are usually related to underlying neck problems, such as arthritis,
Treatment often starts with conservative care: rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. Treatments may also include nerve blocks or injections to calm the irritated nerve.
Providing specialized neurological and pain management care with a patient-centered approach. Dr. Sader combines clinical expertise with compassionate care to help patients achieve optimal health outcomes.
