Could stress be a cause for the occipital neuralgia to occur? Even though the answer is positive (in most cases from tightening of the muscle, resulting in a flare), this is not the only reason why. Occipital tendonitis that is also known as occipital neuralgia could arise from various co-morbid conditions. People commonly experience this condition after suffering from a neck or head trauma as well as the injuries they experience in the car accidents. In addition, osteoarthritis of the neck or the joints may also be the reason for compression of the nerve root. Rarely the cause is a tumor in the neck, but a herniated disc in the cervical region may be very common. In case you are suffering from anxiety, stress or tension, you could be experiencing muscle tension in the neck that could also result in painful sensations.
Neck infection in any structure of the neck (for instance, meninges or the inter-vertebral discs) could lead to the pain in the area. Unchecked gout could often migrate into the joints of the cervical spine and this could lead to pain in the occipital regions.
Furthermore, if you are suffering from diabetes, you could be experiencing nerve damage from high blood sugars, which affect the nerve roots in the occipital regions. Lastly, inflammation of the small blood vessels in the neck could be pressing on the nerves and thus causing pain.
Occipital neuralgia and tendonitis treatments
There is a possibility to perform certain treatments that can help with occipital tendonitis (occipital neuralgia) at home. Simply applying some heat to the back of your head could help loosen the muscles and decrease the pain. You can also attempt to massage the muscles of the neck, even though it is much more effective when performed by a seasoned massage therapist. Furthermore, some over the counter anti-inflammatories, including Advil, could decrease the inflammation that surrounds the nerve and sooth the discomfort.
In addition, more aggressive therapy could begin with the introduction of injections into the affected area. Injection of highly potent steroids could help in decreasing the inflammation and reducing the pain. The doctor could decide to inject a pain relieving medication, including lidocaine, straight into the area in order to help with the discomfort. In case these measures do not really work. A spinal surgeon will be able to remove the tissue that is impinging the nerve. If the home-based treatment is not being effective and you feel that the pain is progressing, it is very important to contact us for a consultation with a qualified and experienced specialist, who will know how to deal with the issue quickly and effectively.
Healing Hands Chiropractic, Los Angeles chiropractor