Headache Intervention Spotlight: Does an Occipital Nerve Block Offer Real Relief?

If you’re someone who struggles with frequent headaches—especially those that don’t seem to respond to medications or lifestyle changes—you may have heard about a treatment called an occipital nerve block. This minimally invasive procedure has gained attention for its potential to relieve chronic or severe headaches, including migraines and tension-related pain.

At BNL Health, our providers specialize in diagnosing and treating complex headache disorders. In this article, we’ll explain what an occipital nerve block is, how it works, who might benefit from it, and whether it really provides relief.

Understanding Chronic Headaches

Headaches can have many causes—from muscle tension and nerve irritation to hormonal changes, dehydration, and even posture issues. When headaches become frequent or severe, they may significantly affect your quality of life, making everyday tasks more difficult.

One specific group of headaches involves irritation of the occipital nerves, which are located at the back of the head near the base of the skull. These nerves run from the upper neck into the scalp and play a key role in transmitting sensations from the back and top of the head.

When these nerves become inflamed or irritated—often due to neck muscle tension, injury, or nerve compression—they can trigger sharp, throbbing, or burning pain that radiates upward toward the scalp or behind the eyes. This condition is sometimes called occipital neuralgia.

In such cases, an occipital nerve block may be recommended to help interrupt the pain cycle and provide meaningful relief.

What Is an Occipital Nerve Block?

An occipital nerve block is a quick, in-office procedure designed to reduce inflammation and irritation around the occipital nerves. It involves injecting a small amount of local anesthetic—sometimes combined with an anti-inflammatory medication—near the affected nerves at the back of the head.

Here’s what to expect during the procedure:

1. You’ll be positioned comfortably, typically sitting or lying face down.
2. The provider cleans the injection area and uses a small needle to deliver the medication near the occipital nerves.
3. The injection usually takes just a few minutes, and most patients can return home shortly afterward.
   
   

The anesthetic works quickly to numb the nerve, while the anti-inflammatory medication (if used) can provide longer-lasting relief by reducing swelling or irritation.

Because the procedure is minimally invasive, it’s considered safe and relatively low-risk.

How Does It Work?

Think of an occipital nerve block as hitting the “pause” button on your pain signals. By calming the nerve, the brain receives fewer pain messages from the affected area. This can result in reduced headache intensity or frequency—sometimes immediately, and sometimes over several days.

The effects of an occipital nerve block vary from person to person:

• Some people experience complete relief for several weeks or even months.
• Others may find their pain reduced but not eliminated.
• In some cases, a series of injections may be needed for longer-term control.
  
  

For many patients, the procedure also serves as a diagnostic tool—if the injection relieves the headache, it confirms that the occipital nerves are a key contributor to the pain.

Who Might Benefit from an Occipital Nerve Block?

This treatment is typically recommended for people whose headaches are linked to nerve irritation or neck-related tension. It may help with:

• Chronic migraines that start in or radiate to the back of the head
• Occipital neuralgia (sharp, stabbing pain at the base of the skull)
• Cervicogenic headaches (headaches that originate from the neck)
• Tension headaches that are resistant to medications
  
  

You may be a good candidate if you’ve tried other treatments—such as medications, physical therapy, or lifestyle changes—but continue to experience significant pain.

However, not all headaches respond to occipital nerve blocks. If your pain is unrelated to nerve irritation, your provider may suggest other therapies. At BNL Health, our team conducts thorough evaluations to ensure you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment plan for your specific condition.

What Are the Risks and Side Effects?

While the occipital nerve block is generally safe, it’s important to understand potential side effects. Most are mild and temporary.

Common side effects may include:

• Mild soreness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site
• Temporary numbness or tingling on the scalp
• Lightheadedness or dizziness immediately after the procedure
  
  

Rare side effects may include:

• Infection at the injection site
• Allergic reaction to the medication
• Short-term increase in headache pain before improvement occurs
  
  

Your provider will review your medical history and discuss any potential risks before the procedure. For most patients, the benefits far outweigh the risks—especially for those whose daily life is affected by chronic headaches.

What to Expect After the Procedure

Most people notice improvement within a few hours to a few days. The anesthetic provides short-term relief, while the steroid medication (if used) may take a bit longer to reduce inflammation.

After your nerve block:

• You can usually resume normal activities the same day, though rest is recommended for a few hours.
• Keep track of your symptoms—note how quickly the pain subsides, how long the relief lasts, and whether it changes in intensity.
• Follow up with your provider to discuss your results and determine whether additional treatments are needed.
  
  

For some, an occipital nerve block provides a window of relief that allows other treatments—such as physical therapy, relaxation techniques, or medication adjustments—to work more effectively.

Is It Right for You?

If you live with chronic headaches, you know how exhausting and frustrating it can be. The occipital nerve block isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but it can be a game changer for the right patient.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Does your headache pain often start at the base of your skull or neck?
• Do your headaches radiate up the scalp or behind your eyes?
• Have medications or other therapies failed to provide lasting relief?
  
  

If you answered yes to these, an occipital nerve block might be worth exploring.

At BNL Health, our experienced team specializes in personalized headache management. We don’t just treat symptoms—we look for the root cause and create a plan tailored to your needs.

Final Thoughts

Headaches are more than just discomfort—they can disrupt your work, your relationships, and your overall well-being. An occipital nerve block is a safe, effective option for many people whose headaches stem from nerve irritation or tension in the neck and scalp.

If you’ve been searching for lasting relief, the experts at BNL Health can help determine whether this treatment is right for you. Our team is committed to helping you find the answers and solutions that improve your quality of life.

Contact BNL Health today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our comprehensive headache treatment options. Relief could be closer than you think.