Occipital Nerve Blocks

Kanuru Interventional Spine and Pain Institute Our Services Occipital Nerve Blocks

Kanuru Interventional Spine and Pain Institute

Interventional Pain Management Specialists located in Highland, IN & Crown Point, IN

Chronic headaches can be debilitating, and you may be unsure where to turn for relief. Dr. Ramesh Kanuru at the Kanuru Interventionalist Spine & Pain Institute can help. Located in Highland, Valparaiso, and Demotte, Indiana, Dr. Kanuru’s practice specializes in pain management and anesthesiology. Unlike many doctors who treat chronic pain disorders, Dr. Kanuru knows the importance of healing underlying conditions rather than just masking symptoms. Occipital nerve blocks are a treatment option that can help relieve pain by reducing inflammation. To learn more about how nerve blocks can provide long-lasting pain relief, call today or request an appointment online.

Occipital Nerve Blocks Q & A

What is an occipital nerve block?

An occipital nerve block is a pain-relief treatment that involves an injection of steroid medication into the occipital nerves at the back of your head. This procedure can be an excellent treatment option for many types of chronic headaches, including:

  • Migraines
  • Cluster headaches
  • Tension headaches
  • Occipital neuralgia

In some cases, an occipital nerve block can also help treat a neck or spinal injury that’s causing chronic pain. Occipital nerve blocks are usually not a first-line treatment, but they can provide relief for patients who have not responded well to other treatments.

If you suffer from chronic headaches, you know how difficult it can be to go about your daily activities while experiencing chronic pain. Occipital nerve blocks offer fast, effective, non-narcotic treatment that doesn’t interfere with your daily routine.
How does an occipital nerve block work?

The occipital nerve runs along your scalp and neck. If this nerve becomes irritated or inflamed, you may suffer from chronic pain in your neck or in different areas of your head. Symptoms can be both severe and long-lasting.

The steroid medication in an occipital nerve block can help reduce inflammation and control swelling, which provides effective pain relief. The medicine also helps block signals along the nerves to dull sensations of pain or discomfort.

How is an occipital nerve block performed?

In most cases, you can receive an occipital nerve block in your doctor’s office. You first receive a local anesthetic to help numb the area where Dr. Kanuru will perform the injection. Next, you receive the injection containing steroid medication.

After the procedure, many patients can safely drive themselves home and return to their normal activities right away. You aren't placed under general anesthesia, and there is no lengthy recovery time.

What kind of results can I expect from an occipital nerve block?

The local anesthetic may provide some pain relief right away, but it often takes three to five days for the steroid medication to take full effect. The effects of the nerve block often last for several weeks or even a few months. Dr. Kanuru will explain how many treatments you’ll need to achieve full pain relief.

If you’re tired of suffering from chronic headaches and struggling to find an effective treatment, an occipital nerve block may help you find relief. Call Dr. Kanuru today or request an appointment online.

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