Persistent, piercing pain at the base of your skull isn’t something you should have to live with. If you’re suffering from headaches that don’t respond to typical treatments, occipital neuralgia may be the underlying issue. Chiropractic care can offer targeted, non-invasive options to support lasting relief and improved function.
Occipital neuralgia is a chronic pain condition characterized by sharp, shooting, or burning pain that radiates from the upper neck into the back of the head and behind the eyes.
It’s often mistaken for migraines or tension headaches, but the root of the problem typically lies in irritation or compression of the occipital nerves—nerves that emerge from between the bones of the upper cervical spine.
As a chiropractor and what I affectionately call an x-ray nerd, I spend significant time reviewing imaging to identify subtle misalignments in the cervical spine (particularly C1 through C3) that contribute to occipital neuralgia. When these vertebrae misalign, they can inflame or entrap the occipital nerves, setting off a cycle of pain and dysfunction.
Occipital neuralgia can present in a variety of ways, making it notoriously difficult to diagnose without a thorough evaluation. Common symptoms include:
Because these symptoms mimic those of migraines or tension headaches, I often see new patients who’ve spent years seeking answers from multiple providers.
That’s why a focused orthopedic and neurological evaluation—sometimes corroborated by digital x-rays and nerve studies—forms the cornerstone of how we assess occipital neuralgia in our practice.
Chiropractic care focuses on restoring optimal function to the nervous system by correcting physical misalignments in the spine, especially in the upper cervical region.
When misalignment or poor biomechanics stress the occipital nerves, comprehensive spinal correction can relieve the pressure and inflammation at the source.
In my Longmont office, we begin with a detailed consultation, neurological assessment, posture analysis, and digital x-ray review. My approach is both precise and customized.
I utilize both manual adjustments (for those who prefer and tolerate the traditional “pop”) and gentle, instrument-based adjustments for those needing a more subtle intervention.
For occipital neuralgia, I pay particularly close attention to the atlas (C1) and axis (C2), which are structurally unique vertebrae supporting not only the head but also intricate pathways of nerves and blood supply.
Correcting even slight misalignments here can bring tremendous symptom relief.
Alongside chiropractic adjustments, I often recommend complementary tools to support your nervous system and speed recovery. These may include:
Occipital neuralgia is often aggravated by poor posture, especially forward head position and screen-related strain or “text neck.”
In my 20 years of serving families in Longmont, I’ve found that chiropractic care is consistently underestimated in its ability to offer non-drug, non-invasive relief for nerve and spine-related conditions like occipital neuralgia.
Often, my patients come to me frustrated after trying medications, injections, or unnecessary imaging, only to find real, lasting relief through focused spinal correction and nervous system care.
As a provider trusted not only by my patients but also by our local medical community, I make sure care is patient-centered, thorough, and driven by proven results.
Whether you’ve just started noticing symptoms or have been living with head pain for years, my door is open to help you feel heard—and healed.
This condition is typically caused by irritation, inflammation, or compression of the occipital nerves, which can result from spinal misalignment, trauma, chronic poor posture, or even repetitive stress on the neck and upper back. Precise chiropractic evaluation can determine if spinal or muscular structures are contributing to nerve irritation.
Yes, when performed by an experienced, licensed chiropractor, care is safe and typically very effective. I incorporate advanced diagnostic tools and tailor care to each individual—whether using gentle instrument adjusting for sensitive patients or traditional manual adjustments when appropriate.
Some patients notice improvement after just a few adjustments, particularly when nerve pressure is relieved quickly. However, full recovery typically requires a structured care plan, often involving several weeks of consistent care along with posture correction and supportive therapies like laser or traction.
Yes. Long-term correction of spinal alignment, combined with improved posture habits and occasional maintenance care, can dramatically reduce the likelihood of recurrence. Prevention is a key part of the care we provide in our office.
Absolutely. I specialize in Prenatal Chiropractic Care and Chiropractic Care For Children. In both populations, the nervous system is highly responsive to gentle chiropractic interventions, and our approaches are always adapted to meet the comfort and safety of the individual.
Typically, no referral is necessary. However, I regularly collaborate and communicate with local MDs and specialists. If you’re already working with a provider, we’re happy to coordinate your care to ensure a seamless and integrative approach.
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