Nerve blocks are among the treatment options used for severe migraine and recurrent headaches when medication alone does not provide sufficient relief. In particular, the greater occipital nerve (GON) block aims to temporarily reduce pain signals and is usually completed within a few minutes.
How is a GON block performed?
The occipital nerves originate from the C2 and C3 spinal nerves in the neck and extend from the back of the head toward the upper scalp. The greater occipital nerve, known as the GON, provides sensation to a large part of this area.
During the procedure, a local anesthetic is usually injected around the targeted nerve. In some cases, a steroid may also be added. The aim is to temporarily reduce the nerve’s ability to transmit pain signals.
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The procedure takes only a few minutes
An occipital nerve block is generally performed as an outpatient procedure without the need for hospital admission. The patient may sit with the head tilted forward or lie face down while the physician identifies the targeted nerve.
The injection itself generally takes less than five minutes. Patients who do not receive sedation can usually leave after a short observation period.
It is also used for other headache disorders
Occipital nerve blocks are not used only for migraine. They may also be considered for occipital neuralgia, cluster headaches, cervicogenic headaches and certain types of neck-related pain.
The procedure can also be used for diagnostic purposes to help determine whether head or neck pain originates from an occipital nerve.
The duration of relief varies
Pain relief may begin within 15 to 30 minutes after the block. While the effect may last only a few hours in some patients, it can continue for several weeks or even months in others.
Studies have reported reductions in pain intensity or migraine frequency in many patients. However, the response is not the same for everyone, and some people may experience little or no benefit.
Most side effects are mild
Pain, redness or swelling at the injection site may occur after the procedure. Dizziness, numbness and lightheadedness are among the other possible side effects.
When steroids are used, temporary hair loss or thinning of the skin around the injection site may occur. Less common complications include infection, bleeding, nerve injury and temporary difficulty swallowing.
Source: NationalTurk
