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.
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Clinic information
Medical Tuset Barcelona
C/ Tuset 23-25, entresuelo08006 Barcelona
Opening hours
Tuesday: 9:00 to 14:00
Other days and times: by appointment