Suboccipital neuralgia, also known as occipital neuralgia, is a condition characterized by intense, sharp, or shooting pain along the distribution of the occipital nerves.
These nerves run from the base of the skull, through the neck, and up to the scalp.
The pain is typically felt on one side of the head, starting at the base of the skull and radiating towards the top of the head, forehead, or behind the eye.
Causes:
Compression or irritation of the occipital nerves: This can occur due to injury, trauma, or repetitive stress to the neck or upper back region. Poor posture, neck strain, or tight muscles in the suboccipital region can also contribute to nerve compression.
Cervical spine problems: Conditions such as cervical disc herniation, degenerative disc disease, or arthritis in the upper spine can cause pressure on the occipital nerves.
Inflammation: In some cases, inflammation of the occipital nerves may occur due to infections or autoimmune disorders.
Tumors or lesions: Rarely, tumors or other growths in the neck or base of the skull may compress the occipital nerves and lead to neuralgia.
Symptoms:
- Strong pain in the back of the head and upper neck.
- Pain may radiate to the scalp, forehead, or around the eye on the affected side.
- Sensitivity to touch or pressure on the scalp.
- Pain may worsen with neck movement.
- Numbness or tingling in the affected area.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosing suboccipital neuralgia involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and sometimes imaging studies like MRI or CT scans to rule out other possible causes of the pain. Your doctor will also check for tenderness in the suboccipital muscles and assess any other neurological signs.
Treatment:
The goal of treatment is to alleviate the pain and address the underlying cause if possible.
Some common treatment options include:
Chiropractic therapy: Stretching exercises, postural training, and strengthening exercises for the neck and upper back can help relieve nerve compression and reduce pain.
Nerve blocks: In some cases, a nerve block injection with local anesthetic and steroids may be administered to provide temporary pain relief.
Lifestyle modifications: Improving posture, avoiding neck strain, and managing stress can help reduce the frequency and intensity of pain episodes.
Heat or ice therapy: Applying heat or ice packs to the affected area can provide temporary relief from pain and muscle tension.
Alternative therapies: Some patients find relief with acupuncture, chiropractic care, or massage therapy, but individual responses to these treatments can vary.
If conservative treatments are ineffective, and the pain is severe and chronic, surgical interventions like decompression of the occipital nerves may be considered in certain cases.
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan based on the specific circumstances of each individual.
Contact KinesioFlow Chiropractic today or make an appointment.
