Occipital Nerve Block

An occipital nerve block is a minimally invasive injection used to relieve head and neck pain originating from irritation or inflammation of the greater and/or lesser occipital nerves. These nerves run from the upper spine through the scalp and can cause headaches, neck pain, and tenderness at the base of the skull.

The injection typically contains a local anesthetic and sometimes a corticosteroid to block pain signals, reduce inflammation, and provide lasting relief.

Your provider may recommend an occipital nerve block if you have:

• Occipital neuralgia (sharp, shooting pain in the back of the head)
• Chronic migraines or cluster headaches
• Tension headaches involving the neck and scalp
• Post-traumatic headaches (after whiplash or head injury)
• Head and neck pain that has not responded to medications or therapy

The goal is to reduce the severity and frequency of headaches and improve your quality of life.

The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting.

• You will be seated or lying comfortably with your head supported.
• The skin over the back of your head is cleaned and sterilized.
• A local anesthetic is used to numb the area.
• Using careful anatomical landmarks or ultrasound guidance, your provider will inject a small amount of local anesthetic (and possibly steroid) around the occipital nerve(s).
• The procedure usually takes about 10–20 minutes, and you can return home shortly after.

• Immediate pain relief is common due to the local anesthetic, but this may wear off within a few hours.
• Steroid medication (if used) may take 2–5 days to reduce inflammation and provide longer-term relief.
• Mild numbness, tingling, or tenderness at the injection site is normal and should resolve within a day or two.
• You should avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours after the procedure.
• Many patients experience significant pain reduction that can last for weeks to months, depending on the underlying condition.

Occipital nerve blocks are generally very safe. Rare risks include:

• Temporary numbness or tingling in the scalp or neck
• Mild bruising or soreness at the injection site
• Infection (very rare)
• Allergic reaction to medications (extremely rare)

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, we use sterile techniques and careful guidance to ensure the safest and most effective treatment.

Patients trust Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah because we offer:

• Board-certified pain management and headache specialists
• Precision-guided nerve block techniques
• Personalized treatment plans for chronic headaches and neuralgia
• Minimally invasive therapies focused on lasting relief and better quality of life

We are committed to helping you find effective, safe, and lasting solutions for your pain.