Occipital Nerve

The occipital nerves are located on the back of the head, just above the neck. Tight muscles, a pinched nerve in the root of the neck, arthritis, or even trauma can cause occipital nerve pain.

To treat this pain, James L. Carlisle, MD may recommend an occipital nerve block procedure which involves injecting the area with medication, such as steroid to relieve inflammation, pain, and improve movement.

Like other injections, the procedure takes only a few minutes. Some redness, initial pain from the injection itself, or swelling can occur immediately following the injection, but should resolve within a couple days.

The pain from the occipital nerve will begin to fade within three to five days following the injection.

Some patients require more than one injection to reach the desired level of pain relief. However, not more than three injections are given in a six month period. If the injection is successful in treating the pain and stiffness, patients may be recommended for additional injections if symptoms return in the future.

Contact Omega Rehabilitation and Spine today. James L. Carlisle, MD can evaluate and help plan effective treatment for occasional or chronic pain. If pain is a persistent or long-lasting problem in your everyday life, you shouldn’t wait a minute longer. Call today.