How To Treat Occipital Neuralgia

Microvascular Decompression

Microvascular decompression is a complex surgical procedure with the purpose of alleviating compression of the occipital nerve, which is one possible cause of occipital neuralgia. In this operation, a surgeon opens the patient’s skull at the back of the neck. The nerve is separated away from the blood vessel, connective tissue, or muscle that may be constricting or compressing the nerve. In some cases, the surgeon may place a tiny sponge between the occipital nerve and the blood vessel. This sponge essentially cushions the occipital nerve from the compression that triggers pain. Although this is a serious surgery and may not be possible for all patients, microvascular decompression works to significantly alleviate occipital nerve pain in most cases.

Uncover more treatments for occipital neuralgia now.