Occipital nerve radiofrequency is a minimally invasive technique used to treat chronic head and neck pain, especially in patients suffering from occipital neuralgia or migraines.
This procedure is performed at Clínica San Román’s Pain Treatment Unit, where advanced technologies are used to guarantee optimal results.
What is Occipital Nerve Radiofrequency?
Occipital nerve radiofrequency is a treatment that involves the application of an electric current controlled by a fine needle in the area near the occipital nerve.
This nerve is located at the back of the head and is responsible for scalp sensation.
When this nerve is irritated or compressed, it can cause severe pain, which radiates to the head and neck.
The electrical current from the radiofrequency generates heat, which causes a temporary interruption of the transmission of pain signals from the nerve to the brain.
This provides prolonged relief by decreasing the nerve’s ability to send painful impulses.
Occipital Nerve Radiofrequency Indications
This treatment is especially useful for patients suffering from:
- Occipital neuralgia: sharp, stabbing pain originating at the base of the skull and extending to the scalp.
- Chronic migraines: Headache that affects frequently and does not respond well to other treatments.
- Chronic neck pain: Persistent pain in the back of the neck due to nerve or cervical spine conditions.
In addition, it is an effective option for those seeking less invasive alternatives to surgeries or who wish to reduce their dependence on pain medication.
How is Occipital Nerve Radiofrequency performed?
The radiofrequency procedure is minimally invasive and is performed in an outpatient setting.
The main steps of the procedure are described below:
- Preparation: The patient is placed in a comfortable position, usually face down.
Local anesthesia is applied to the skull base area to minimize discomfort. - Imaging guidance: With the help of ultrasound or fluoroscopic (real-time X-ray) guidance, the specialist inserts a fine needle near the occipital nerve.
- Radiofrequency application: Once the needle is correctly positioned, controlled electric current is administered to block pain signals.
The heat generated by the radiofrequency affects the nerve fibers responsible for pain transmission, providing prolonged relief.
Occipital Nerve Radiofrequency Benefits
Occipital nerve radiofrequency offers multiple benefits including:
- Prolonged pain relief: Patients usually experience a significant decrease in pain, which can last for several months.
- Minimally invasive procedure: Unlike surgeries, this treatment is less aggressive and with a quick recovery time.
- Reduced medication use: Patients can reduce or even eliminate the need for analgesics and other pain medications, minimizing long-term side effects.
- Improved quality of life: By relieving chronic head and neck pain, patients can resume their daily activities more comfortably.
Procedure and Recovery
The occipital nerve RF procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia.
Recovery is rapid, and most patients can return to normal activities on the same day or the next day.
In the days following treatment, there may be slight discomfort or swelling at the injection site, but these side effects are usually temporary.
Pain relief may be felt within a few days and reach its maximum effect within a few weeks.
In some cases, treatment may be repeated if the pain returns over time.
When to Consider Occipital Nerve Radiofrequency?
Radiofrequency is an ideal option for patients who have tried other treatments without success or who seek to avoid more invasive options such as surgery.
It is also recommended for those who want a more prolonged solution for head and neck pain, especially in cases of occipital neuralgia and chronic migraines.
At Clínica San Román, pain specialists will evaluate your case individually to determine if this procedure is right for you.
The treatment is customized to maximize the benefits and adapt to the needs of each patient.
Conclusion
Occipital nerve radiofrequency is a highly effective and minimally invasive treatment for chronic head and neck pain.
At Clínica San Román’s Pain Treatment Unit, we offer this advanced technique to improve the quality of life of our patients, helping them to significantly reduce pain and resume their daily activities.
If you suffer from chronic headache or occipital neuralgia, we invite you to consult with our specialists to explore whether radiofrequency is the right option for you.
