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WWW.PINKERTONPAIN.COM
| 417-781-7246 |
Occipital Nerve Blocks
Occipital Nerve Blocks
What is an Occipital Nerve Block?
An occipital nerve block is an injection of long-lasting steroid such as methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, or
triamcinolone and an anesthetic next to the greater and lesser occipital nerves which are located just beneath the scalp
near the base of the skull. Since the nerves are on the outside of the skull, this block does not involve the brain. This
injection is useful in diagnosing and treating occipital neuralgia and in relieving or reducing pain on either side of the
back of the head.
Are you a candidate for Disc Decompression?
Only you and your doctor and decide if this procedure is right for you. Those who have an infection, are pregnant or
nursing, or those with bleeding problems should not have epidural steroid injections. ESIs may slightly elevate blood
sugar in patients with diabetes for a short period of time.
What happens before an Occipital Nerve Block?
Dr. Pinkerton requires that you have an initial evaluation by him prior to having any form of treatment. This is an
opportunity for you and him to get to know each other. He will examine you thoroughly and review all of your medical
history and medication. You should be prepared to ask any questions at this time. Prior to receiving an occipital nerve
block, you may be asked to remain fasting for up to 6 hours and bring a driver with you to your appointment. These are
only precautions and are for your safety only. Click here to see our specific instructions.
What happens after an Occipital Nerve Block?
Although some patients may feel anxious about an occipital nerve block ahead of time, most patients are pleasantly
surprised when they are finished. Most patients are immediately able to get and after a short period of monitoring are
able to leave the office. Light activity is encouraged for the rest of the day but strenuous activity is discouraged. Patients
can usually return to their normal activities the next day. Localized soreness may be relieved by using ice for at least 2
hours in 20 minute intervals. This may be done up to 24 hours.
What are the results?
Some patients experience some pain relief immediately, however, it is common for occipital nerve blocks to take a few
days to start to work. The medication may take up to 7 days to begin working, and more than one injection may be
required. Dr. Pinkerton will give you specific instructions on when to return to his office.
What are the risks?
Generally, there are very few risks associated with occipital nerve blocks. Potential side affects are infection, allergic
reaction, and those associated with steroid.
An occipital nerve block is an injection of long-lasting steroid such as methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, or
triamcinolone and an anesthetic next to the greater and lesser occipital nerves which are located just beneath the scalp
near the base of the skull. Since the nerves are on the outside of the skull, this block does not involve the brain. This
injection is useful in diagnosing and treating occipital neuralgia and in relieving or reducing pain on either side of the
back of the head.
Are you a candidate for Disc Decompression?
Only you and your doctor and decide if this procedure is right for you. Those who have an infection, are pregnant or
nursing, or those with bleeding problems should not have epidural steroid injections. ESIs may slightly elevate blood
sugar in patients with diabetes for a short period of time.
What happens before an Occipital Nerve Block?
Dr. Pinkerton requires that you have an initial evaluation by him prior to having any form of treatment. This is an
opportunity for you and him to get to know each other. He will examine you thoroughly and review all of your medical
history and medication. You should be prepared to ask any questions at this time. Prior to receiving an occipital nerve
block, you may be asked to remain fasting for up to 6 hours and bring a driver with you to your appointment. These are
only precautions and are for your safety only. Click here to see our specific instructions.
What happens after an Occipital Nerve Block?
Although some patients may feel anxious about an occipital nerve block ahead of time, most patients are pleasantly
surprised when they are finished. Most patients are immediately able to get and after a short period of monitoring are
able to leave the office. Light activity is encouraged for the rest of the day but strenuous activity is discouraged. Patients
can usually return to their normal activities the next day. Localized soreness may be relieved by using ice for at least 2
hours in 20 minute intervals. This may be done up to 24 hours.
What are the results?
Some patients experience some pain relief immediately, however, it is common for occipital nerve blocks to take a few
days to start to work. The medication may take up to 7 days to begin working, and more than one injection may be
required. Dr. Pinkerton will give you specific instructions on when to return to his office.
What are the risks?
Generally, there are very few risks associated with occipital nerve blocks. Potential side affects are infection, allergic
reaction, and those associated with steroid.
This site is not intended to be a substitute for
medical care. It is for informational purposes only.
medical care. It is for informational purposes only.