occipital neuralgia

[Izabella12]

I’ve had occipital neuralgia for 20 years, no accident, not sure how I got it, maybe thru traction for herniated discs n my neck. I’m 69 years old. The only thing that helps is ice and pain meds. Oh and ablation that I can’t get anymore due to insurance. My last was blotched and my head is still numb. Left arm pain, can’t use phone and text very much. Sick of being on pain meds.

ANY INSIGHT OR SUGGESTIONS WELCOME

[Batty1]

I found this:

What causes occipital neuralgia?

Occipital neuralgia may occur spontaneously, or as the result of a pinched nerve root in the neck (from arthritis, for example), or because of prior injury or surgery to the scalp or skull. Sometimes "tight" muscles at the back of the head can entrap the nerves.

Have you tried physical therapy maybe a pinched nerve is the problem?

[Izabella12 in reply to Batty1]

thank u. I’ve done physical therapy many different times for several weeks

[Batty1 in reply to Izabella12]

Well that stinks

[Genevieve]

Hi Izabella. I had a herniated disc in my neck last year - agony for a month and my left arm affected - and am now suffering from severe shooting pains below my ear and down my neck. The herniated disc was due to overall degeneration of spinal discs apparently - I'm 77. The spasms of pain comes and goes, but I have a permanent ache in the same area. Wondering if it's occipital neuralgia, but haven't been to the doctor yet. Can I ask what pain medication your doctor gave you? And do they work? Sorry I can't be of help to your situation, but hope that things improve for you.

[Izabella12 in reply to Genevieve]

mine is a constant pain right below my left side skull. Also have herniated disks and degenerative disk disease. My pain radiates down my left arm at times, but that not my main concern. It’s my neck. My pain mgmt has me on pain pills and a patch. It doesn’t take it away, but before the meds I did nothing but lay around and cry with it

[Genevieve]

Thank you for your reply Izabella. I had a herniated disc in my lower back some time ago and I can remember how painful that was. It's good that the pain pills and path give you some relief, at least. Take care of yourself.

[Izabella12 in reply to Genevieve]

u too