DIAGNOSIS
Diagnosing occipital Neuralgia is uncertain because there is no substantial test that will reveal a negative or positive diagnosis.
However, the doctor will look for abnormalities through:
- Physical examination
- Neurological exam
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test
- Computed tomography scan (CT or CAT scan)
- Occipital nerve blocks
TREATMENT
The first thing to do is to mitigate your discomfort. Follow these steps:
- Apply heat to the neck.
- Take a rest in a comfortable room.
- Massage the painful and tight neck muscles.
If those don’t work, the doctor will prescribe the following treatments:
- Massage therapy or physical therapy
Anti-inflammatory medications;
Muscle relaxants; and
Anticonvulsant medications.
- Percutaneous nerve blocks. Injections are used to diagnose and treat occipital Neuralgia.
- Botulinum Toxin (Botox) Injections. Use to lessen nerve inflammation.
In some cases, surgery is an alternative option if pain persists after medication. The types of surgery include:
- Microvascular decompression
This treatment helps relieve pain by adjusting blood vessels that compress the nerve.
- Occipital nerve stimulation
This surgical treatment helps block the pain messages to the brain using a device called a neurostimulator.
This surgical treatment produces electrical impulses to block pain messages from the spinal cord to the brain.
Occipital Neuralgia is a critical condition. If you suffer from persistent and severe pain in the back of your head, tell your doctor immediately.