Occipital Nerve Block

Targeted Relief for Chronic Headaches and Neck Pain

What Is an Occipital Nerve Block?

An Occipital Nerve Block involves injecting a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a corticosteroid, near the occipital nerves located at the back of the head. These nerves can become inflamed or irritated, leading to pain that radiates from the neck to the scalp.

By administering the injection, the procedure aims to reduce inflammation and block pain signals, providing relief from chronic headaches and neck pain.

What Is an Occipital Nerve Block?

An Occipital Nerve Block involves injecting a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a corticosteroid, near the occipital nerves located at the back of the head. These nerves can become inflamed or irritated, leading to pain that radiates from the neck to the scalp.

By administering the injection, the procedure aims to reduce inflammation and block pain signals, providing relief from chronic headaches and neck pain.

How It Works

The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting and involves the following steps:

✔ Preparation – The patient is positioned comfortably, either sitting or lying down.

✔ Localization – The healthcare provider identifies the injection site by palpating the area or using imaging guidance.

✔ Injection – A small needle is used to inject the anesthetic and corticosteroid near the occipital nerves.

✔ Post-Injection Monitoring – The patient is observed for a short period to monitor for any immediate reactions.

The entire procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes, and patients can typically return home shortly afterward.

Conditions Treated with Occipital Nerve Blocks

Occipital Nerve Blocks are effective in managing various conditions, including:

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Occipital Neuralgia

Characterized by sharp, shooting pain in the back of the head and neck.

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Migraine Headaches

Particularly those that are resistant to other treatments.

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Cluster Headaches

Severe headaches that occur in cyclical patterns or clusters.

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Cervicogenic Headaches

Headaches that originate from the cervical spine or neck region.

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Post-Traumatic Headaches

Headaches resulting from neck or head injuries, such as whiplash.

Benefits of Occipital Nerve Blocks

Patients undergoing Occipital Nerve Blocks may experience:

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Targeted Pain Relief

Directly addresses the source of pain by targeting specific nerves.

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Diagnostic Value

Helps determine if the occipital nerves are the source of pain, guiding further treatment.

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Minimally Invasive Procedure

Quick and performed without the need for general anesthesia.

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Reduced Medication Dependence

May decrease the need for oral pain medications.

Ideal Candidates for Occipital Nerve Blocks

You may be a suitable candidate if:

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You suffer from chronic headaches or neck pain that has not responded to other treatments.

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Your pain is localized to the back of the head and upper neck.

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You are seeking a minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic option.

Patients with certain medical conditions or allergies should discuss potential risks with their healthcare provider.

Risks and Potential Side Effects

While Occipital Nerve Blocks are generally safe, potential risks include:

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Common Side Effects

Mild discomfort, redness, or swelling at the injection site, which typically resolves within a few days.

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Rare but Serious Complications

Infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or an allergic reaction to the injected substances. Your healthcare provider will discuss these risks and monitor you during and after the procedure.

Care That’s Close to Home

We offer care from two convenient clinic locations, making it easy to access expert medical support close to home.

Each facility is designed to provide a welcoming, safe, and efficient environment equipped with advanced technology and supported by a compassionate team dedicated to your well being.



Tualatin Clinic



Newberg Clinic

Care That’s Close to Home

We offer care from two convenient clinic locations, making it easy to access expert medical support close to home.

Each facility is designed to provide a welcoming, safe, and efficient environment equipped with advanced technology and supported by a compassionate team dedicated to your well being.



Tualatin Clinic



Newberg Clinic

Why Choose Spinal Diagnostics?

Patients choose Spinal Diagnostics for our comprehensive approach, accurate diagnostics, and compassionate care. We stay at the forefront of interventional procedures and are committed to improving your quality of life—without opioids or invasive surgeries.