11/17/2025
Occipital Neuralgia: The Hidden Cause of Your Head and Neck Pain π£β¨
Occipital neuralgia is a condition where the nerves at the back of your head become irritated or compressed. These nerves, called the occipital nerves, run from the upper neck to the scalp. When they get irritated, they can trigger sharp, shooting, or throbbing pain that can feel like migraines.
Common symptoms include:
π Sudden electric like pain at the back of your head
π Tenderness in your neck or scalp
π Pain that spreads to your forehead or behind your eyes
π Light sensitivity or discomfort when you turn your head
What causes it?
It often comes from tight neck muscles, poor posture, long hours on the phone or laptop, stress, or even previous injuries. When the muscles at the base of the skull tighten, they can put pressure on the occipital nerves.
Simple ways to relieve it:
β Gentle neck stretches
β Heat therapy
β Improving posture during work or phone use
β Massage around the upper neck and skull base
β Short breaks during long sitting hours
Understanding this condition allows you to manage your symptoms early and prevent flare ups. Your neck and nerves will thank you later ππββοΈπββοΈ
