Occipital Neuralgia
Relief for Sharp, Shock-Like Pain at the Base of the Skull
What Is Occipital Neuralgia?
Occipital neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the greater, lesser, or third occipital nerves, which run from the top of the spinal cord through the scalp. When these nerves are irritated or compressed, they can cause intense, stabbing pain at the base of the skull, sometimes radiating upward to the scalp, forehead, and behind the eyes.
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.
Head & Facial Pain Conditions We Treat
Cryoneurolysis may be an effective treatment for several forms of nerve-related pain in the head and face:
Trigeminal Neuralgia
Learn MoreOften described as electric shock–like facial pain, this condition involves one or more branches of the trigeminal nerve.
Supraorbital & Infraorbital Neuralgia
Learn MorePain above and below the eyes, typically caused by nerve irritation or trauma to the supraorbital or infraorbital branches.
Occipital Neuralgia
Learn MoreStabbing or aching pain in the back of the head or upper neck, often misdiagnosed as migraines or tension headaches.
Mandibular & Mental Neuralgia
Learn MoreSharp, radiating pain in the lower jaw, chin, or gums — often felt as unexplained dental discomfort or jaw stiffness.
Ready to Feel Relief?
Explore the individual conditions listed above or book a consultation today to discuss whether cryoneurolysis is right for you.
Why Patients Choose Barcelona Cryo Center
Minimally Invasive
Cryoneurolysis requires only a small skin puncture. No incision or general anesthesia is needed, which means minimal tissue impact and faster recovery.
Outpatient Care
The treatment is completed during a single clinic visit. Patients come in, receive care, and return home the same day without hospital admission.
Ultrasound Guided
Real-time imaging ensures precise placement next to the target nerve and improves both safety and effectiveness.
Evidence-Based Relief
Clinical studies show that Cryoneurolysis can provide lasting relief from chronic pain while reducing the need for ongoing medication.
Specialized Pain Center
Barcelona Cryo Center focuses exclusively on chronic pain, post-surgical pain, and spastic paresis related to conditions.
Unique In Barcelona
Founded in Denmark in 2014, now in Barcelona offering ultrasound guided Cryoneurolysis, as well as advanced treatments for spasticity.
Opioid-Free Approach
We treat chronic pain without using opioids such as morphine or related drugs.
Quality Of Life Focus
Our goal is to help people with chronic or acute pain and spastic paresis live with less pain and greater independence.
Coverage
| Consultation | €100 |
| Diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound | From €90 |
| Ultrasound-guided diagnostic block | €250 |
| Cryoneurolysis treatment for pain | €1,500 |
| Hyaluronic acid injection – consultation + injection package | €400 |
| PRP – 3 treatment sessions | €930 |
What to Expect
- 1
Free Records Review
We review your medical history to see if our approach is a good fit for your condition
- 2
Consultation
Patients who are a good fit for treatment will meet in person to further discuss
- 3
Treatment
Ultrasound-guided Cryoneurolysis, minimally invasive
- 4
Relief
Improved mobility and quality of life; plan for next steps
Meet Your Care Team
Real clinicians, modern methods, and a patient-first approach.
Igor Filipovski
Specialist in anesthesiology
Ognen Poposki
Specialist in Rehabilitation and Pain
Sonja Zikova
Administration and Finance Manager
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is cryoneurolysis safe?
Generally considered safe with trained clinicians; side effects can include temporary numbness, bruising, soreness.
How long does pain relief last?
Varies by condition; some patients have relief for months; plans can be revisited.
Is treatment covered by insurance in Barcelona?
Coverage varies and is discussed at the consultation.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Share a brief description of what you are looking for and we will follow up to schedule your consultation.
Please do not include medical history or sensitive personal information.
Clinic Information
Address:
Pg. de la Bonanova, 91, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08017 Barcelona
Phone: +34647915544
Monday: 16:00 to 20:00
Tuesday: 16:00 to 20:00
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 16:00 to 20:00
Friday: 16:00 to 20:00
Saturday and Sunday: By appointment