Common symptoms include:

• Sharp, shock-like pain in the back of the head or upper neck
• Throbbing or burning sensations along the scalp
• Pain behind one or both eyes
• Tenderness or sensitivity to touch at the base of the skull
• Pain triggered by head movement, brushing hair, or resting on a pillow

Occipital neuralgia is often misdiagnosed as migraine or tension headache, leading to delayed or ineffective treatment.

Common Causes

Occipital neuralgia may result from:

• Whiplash injuries or neck trauma
• Chronic neck tension or poor posture
• Arthritis or degenerative disc disease
• Compression of the occipital nerves by muscles or connective tissue
• Post-surgical scarring in the neck or upper spine

How Cryoneurolysis Helps

Barcelona Cryo Center offers ultrasound-guided cryoneurolysis to selectively deactivate the occipital nerves responsible for pain — without permanently damaging the nerve.

Benefits of Cryoneurolysis:

• Minimally invasive: No incisions, no general anesthesia
• Long-lasting relief: Many patients experience months of pain reduction
• Precision guided: Real-time ultrasound imaging ensures safety and accuracy
• No opioids: A drug-free approach to chronic pain management
• Repeatable: Treatment can be safely repeated if symptoms return

Ideal Candidates

Cryoneurolysis may be an effective option if you:

• Experience chronic pain at the base of the skull or upper neck
• Have tried medications or nerve blocks without lasting success
• Prefer a non-surgical alternative to nerve ablation
• Have pain following whiplash, cervical injury, or postural strain

Reclaim Comfort & Clarity

Occipital neuralgia can interfere with sleep, work, and quality of life. Cryoneurolysis offers a safe, focused way to manage the pain and get back to living.

Book your consultation with Barcelona Cryo Center today.