Does Occipital Nerve Stimulation for Headaches Work

Chronic pain is one of the most difficult medical issues to deal with. It can be particularly difficult to deal with if there is no obvious, physical cause. Some people experience chronic, severe headaches close to every day, which are not relieved by traditional methods of treatment.

About Chronic Headaches

Chronic headaches occur in a small percentage of the population. Some people with migraines, cluster headaches, and other severe types of headaches experience them on a daily or near-daily basis. This can be debilitating, especially when the condition doesn't respond to management through medication. A person with chronic migraines or cluster headaches may be unable to work, perform tasks around the house, exercise, or take care of their family.

About Occipital Nerve Stimulation

Occipital nerve stimulation provides hope to people who have long suffered from chronic headaches. When you suffer from chronic headaches, your nerves transmit signals to the brain that result in a feeling of pain. In occipital nerve stimulation, a stimulator is implanted, with leads placed near the occipital nerve. The stimulator transmits an electrical impulse, which interferes with the transmission of the pain impulse, giving you much-needed relieve.

Occipital nerve stimulation is a long-term solution to a chronic problem. The stimulator is placed in the body permanently, and you can expect to use it for several hours over the course of the day.

Who is a Candidate?

Although nerve stimulation is still a relatively new type of treatment, studies show great promise with the procedure. However, not everyone who experiences migraines, cluster headaches, or other types of chronic headaches is a candidate for this type of treatment.

Nerve stimulation is effective, but it's not without risks; it's also expensive (though covered by insurance) and requires some downtime. Therefore, your doctor will only recommend this type of treatment if your chronic headaches occur frequently and cannot be managed with any medication regimen or other type of conservative treatment.

To schedule a consultation about whether or not occipital nerve stimulation is right for you, please click below and enter your information or call the Datta Endoscopic Back Surgery and Pain Center at