Guide To The Causes Of Occipital Neuralgia

Cervical Disc Disease

Cervical disc disease is a rarer cause of occipital neuralgia, but it's still a possibility. This condition causes pain in the neck and degeneration of the cervical discs, which can, in turn, lead to injury or inflammation of the occipital nerves. The degenerative process often causes radiating pain throughout the neck, and affected individuals may also have weakness and numbness in their hand, arm, and shoulders. The level of mobility loss and pain varies from case to case, but it can be debilitating. Each of an individual's seven vertebrae is separated by cushioning discs, which help stabilize their neck and let it turn smoothly without pain. When the discs start to break down, moving the neck and back becomes painful and difficult.