Occipital Nerve Block is a medical procedure involving the injection of local anesthetics around the nerves at the back of the head. It is utilized to manage pain transmission in patients diagnosed with chronic migraine, occipital neuralgia, and tension-type headaches. This procedure is performed by Dr. Ömer Fatih Şahin in Nişantaşı, Istanbul as part of a comprehensive pain management plan.
What Is an Occipital Nerve Block?
Headaches often originate from the irritation or compression of the Greater and Lesser Occipital Nerves located at the base of the skull. The Occipital Nerve Block serves to interrupt the transmission of pain signals from these nerves to the brain. Medical Objective: To desensitize the central nervous system, reduce the frequency and
intensity of headache attacks, and provide relief for patients resistant to standard medication.
Medical Indications (Who Is It For?)
This procedure is planned after a thorough neurological and physical examination. It may be indicated for:
● Chronic Migraine: For patients seeking to manage pain with fewer oral medications.
● Occipital Neuralgia: Characterized by piercing, throbbing, or electric-shock-like pain in the upper neck and back of the head.
● Cervicogenic Headache: Headaches originating from cervical spine (neck) issues.
● Cluster Headaches: To provide temporary relief during active cluster periods.
Procedure Protocol
The procedure is performed in a clinical setting under sterile conditions.
1. Anatomical Mapping: The physician identifies the specific location of the Greater Occipital Nerve (GON) through palpation.

2. Injection: Using a fine-gauge needle, the medication (local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a corticosteroid) is injected into the tissue surrounding the nerve. The nerve itself is not penetrated.
3. Process: The procedure takes approximately 5–10 minutes. Afterwards, the patient is monitored for 15–20 minutes to ensure stable vital signs before discharge.
Holistic (Functional) Assessment
While the nerve block addresses the symptom (pain), our clinic also investigates potential underlying triggers through a Functional Medicine perspective:
● Posture analysis and muscle tension.
● Sleep disorders (Sleep Apnea).
● Micronutrient deficiencies (Magnesium, B12).
● Chronic inflammation markers.
Frequently Asked Questions (Informational)
1. Is the procedure painful? There is minimal discomfort associated with the needle insertion and a
slight pressure sensation during the injection. The local anesthetic provides rapid numbness to the
area.
2. How long does the effect last? Pain relief from the anesthetic is immediate. The therapeutic
benefit (reduction in headache frequency) varies by patient, potentially lasting weeks or months.
Chronic conditions may require repeat sessions.
3. Are there risks? It is considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified specialist. Minor
side effects may include temporary tenderness at the injection site or mild dizziness. Serious
complications are rare.
4. Is it a permanent cure? In medicine, terms like “permanent cure” are not used for chronic
conditions like migraine. This procedure is an effective management tool designed to improve quality
of life and reduce pain scores.
5. Can I drive afterwards?
Normal daily routines can usually be resumed shortly after the procedure. However, driving
immediately after the procedure is not recommended if it is your first time, due to potential mild
dizziness.
6. What is the cost? Pricing depends on the specific medication protocol and number of sessions
required. Per regulations, medical fees cannot be published online. Please contact our clinic for
consultation.