Nerve Blocks & Injections

Occipital Nerve Blocks

Local anesthetic injected around the occipital nerves at the base of the skull, providing rapid relief for chronic migraines and occipital neuralgia.

Nerve

Procedure Overview

That type of headache, originating at the back of the skull, often with scalp sensitivity, and sometimes accompanied by pain behind the eyes, points to the occipital nerves as the source. When these nerves become inflamed or entrapped, they generate a pattern of headache that is distinct from tension or sinus headaches. The good news is it has a targeted treatment.

Treatment Purpose

Occipital nerve blocks inject local anesthetic, often combined with corticosteroid, around the greater and lesser occipital nerves at the base of the skull. The injection interrupts pain signal transmission from these nerves, providing rapid relief. The procedure can be repeated as needed for ongoing headache management.

Appropriate Conditions

Occipital neuralgia
Chronic migraines
Tension headaches
Cervicogenic headaches
Post-traumatic headache
Scalp tenderness

Patient Considerations

The procedure is quick, well-tolerated, and does not require imaging guidance in most cases. It takes 10 to 15 minutes. The injection is placed near the surface of the skull, not inside it. Most patients notice relief within hours from the local anesthetic component, with additional sustained relief from the corticosteroid developing over the following days.

Treatment Process

The procedure takes 10 to 15 minutes. You are seated or lying down while a thin needle is carefully placed near the occipital nerves at the base of the skull and the therapeutic solution is injected. You return home the same day and can resume normal activities immediately. The block can be safely repeated as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon does relief begin?

Most patients feel relief within hours from the local anesthetic. Sustained relief from corticosteroid develops over the following days.

How long does relief last?

Relief typically lasts weeks to several months depending on the condition and individual response.

Can this be repeated?

Yes. Occipital nerve blocks can be safely repeated as needed for ongoing headache management.

Medical disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace an evaluation by a qualified physician. Talk with a doctor about your specific condition and treatment options. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.

Need Guidance?

Talk With a SCOPES Specialist

Every care plan is based on your diagnosis, your symptoms, and your goals.

Book Your Visit

Back to all treatments