07/16/2022
OCCIPITAL NEURALGIA HEADACHES
Since the O-A joint surrounds and attaches to the brain stem, which controls all basic body functions (including breathing and heartbeat), poor alignment may have widespread consequences. For example, if the O-A joint on one side develops a restriction, the crooked occiput may set off local neurological reflexes that increase muscle tension in the suboccipitals, and which may compress and irritate the greater occipital nerve.
Clients presenting with occipital neuralgia commonly complain of pain referring up the back of the head and around the side, sometimes reaching into the orbital region.
Following the client history intake and palpation of suboccipital hypertonicity, the MAT therapist must try and determine the origin of the suspected occipital neuralgia headache. Ask yourself this question first: Is the unlevel O-A joint and accompanying suboccipital spasm the result of awkward head and neck positioning, as in the case of the plumber under the sink, or could there be compensations… click here to read more and vide a Myoskeletal Technique video: https://mailchi.mp/freedomfrompain/occipital-neuralgia-headaches159854
