Shooting momentary pain at back of head

[choudharys]

I have been having occipital headaches for about a week. it just comes and goes in a second and then repeats itself after few seconds/minutes. sometimes the spells are longer with frequency every few seconds. then it goes off on its own. i have been prescribed neck rest with soft collar and neuro medicines like pregabalin. i should admit that today is the 3rd day of medication and pain came back after almost 2 days. i am guessing that the frequency is going down. my question is that does it seem to be the right diagnosis or not? is occipital neuralgia permanent? could this be a muscle spasm? i have had history of stiff neck and pain in sub-occipital and neck area in past 2 years. i have posture problems with working on my laptop lying on bed or couches. i work on laptop 10-12 hrs a day minimum and then a couple of hours on my blackberry.
This pain is killing when it comes. would appreciate any words of advice from anyone who has gone through this or has been involved in it in some way or the other.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? Occipital neuralgia presents with piercing, throbbing, or electric-shock-like chronic pain in the upper neck, back of the head, and behind the ears.  The pain is caused by irritation or injury to the nerves, which can be the result of trauma to the back of the head or pinching of the nerves by overly tight neck muscles.  Frequent lengthy periods of keeping the head in a downward and forward position such as in your case,  is a risk factor for occipital neuralgia.  Treatment is generally symptomatic and includes massage and rest. Local nerve blocks and injections of steroids directly into the affected area may also help. Recovery is usually complete after the bout of pain has ended and the nerve damage repaired. Inform your doctor if the medication you are taking is not working for proper management. Take care and do keep us posted.

[steven525]

Hi,

Here's an idea that may help you. On Youtube look for the combination of these words: 'Atlas orthogonal correction'.

I hope this may help you, best of luck.