Neuralgia of the occipital nerve is characterized by pain in the area of the large and small occipital nerves (in the nape and down to the neck, at the top of the head and laterally up to the auricles).
The most frequent causes are to be found in the often repeated traumas of the cervical region, or in degenerative-arthritic pathologies.
Occipital neuralgia is often confused with more common conditions, such as muscle tension headache and migraine, with which have in common neck stiffness and photophobia. Infiltrations with local anesthetic and possibly steroids can be beneficial. Infiltrations with local anaesthetic and possibly steroids may bring relief. If the problem returns, it is recommended to resort to peripheral pulsed radiofrequency and possibly the implantation of cord neurostimulation systems.