Occipital neuralgia, also known as C2 neuralgia, or (rarely) Arnold's neuralgia, is a medical condition characterized by chronic pain in the upper neck, back of the head and behind the eyes. These areas correspond to the locations of the lesser and greater occipital nerves. The greater occipital nerve also has an artery that supplies blood that is wrapped around it - the occipital artery - that can contribute to the neuralgia. This condition is also sometimes characterized with diminished sensation in the affected area as well. Greater Occipital Neuralgia is caused by damage to these nerves. Ways in which they can be damaged include trauma (usually concussive), physical stress on the nerve, repetitive neck contraction, flexion or extension, and as a result of medical complications (such as osteochondroma, a benign tumour of the bone). Another rare but possible cause is CSF Leaks. Yet another cause is from Radio Frequency nerve ablation. Rarely, occipital neuralgia may be a symptom of metastasis of certain cancers to the spine. There are several different areas that have potential to cause injury from compression:
Greater Occipital Neuralgia
Location
2170 S. El Camino Real, Suite 117-122
Oceanside, CA 92054
Phone: 760-730-8060
Fax: (760) 730-8061
Office Hours