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Occipital NeuralgiaTable of Contents (click to jump to sections)What is Occipital Neuralgia? What is the prognosis? What research is being done? Organizations What is Occipital Neuralgia? Occipital neuralgia is a distinct type of headache characterized by piercing, throbbing, or electric-shock-like chronic pain in the upper neck, back of the head, and behind the ears, usually on one side of the head. Typically, the pain of occipital neuralgia begins in the neck and then spreads upwards. Some individuals will also experience pain in the scalp, forehead, and behind the eyes. Their scalp may also be tender to the touch, and their eyes especially sensitive to light. The location of pain is related to the areas supplied by the greater and lesser occipital nerves, which run from the area where the spinal column meets the neck, up to the scalp at the back of the head. The pain is caused by irritation or injury to the nerves, which can be the result of trauma to the back of the head, pinching of the nerves by overly tight neck muscles, compression of the nerve as it leaves the spine due to osteoarthritis, or tumors or other types of lesions in the neck. Localized inflammation or infection, gout, diabetes, blood vessel inflammation (vasculitis), and frequent lengthy periods of keeping the head in a downward and forward position are also associated with occipital neuralgia. In many cases, however, no cause can be found. A positive response (relief from pain) after an anesthetic nerve block will confirm the diagnosis. What is the prognosis? Occipital neuralgia is not a life-threatening condition. Many individuals will improve with therapy involving heat, rest,
anti-inflammatory mediations, and muscle relaxants. Recovery is usually complete after the bout of pain has ended and the
nerve damage repaired or lessened.
What research is being done? The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) and other institutes at the National Institutes of Health
conduct research related to pain and occipital neuralgia in their clinics and laboratories and support additional research
through grants to major medical institutions across the country. Much of this research focuses on understanding the basic
mechanisms of pain and testing treatments in order to find better ways to treat occipital neuralgia.
Select this link to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.
Prepared by: NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history. All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated. Last updated March 05, 2007 This information has been provided by The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). |