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Occipital neuralgia causes sharp, stabbing pain at the back of the head and upper neck — caused by irritation of occipital nerves.
Quick Answer
Occipital neuralgia causes sharp, stabbing pain at the back of the head and upper neck — caused by irritation of occipital nerves. Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav (NMC 8029, 15+ years of clinical experience) evaluates occipital neuralgia at Kathmandu Neurology Clinic & Cognitive Center, 117 Lal Durbar Marg, Kathmandu, Bagmati Province 44600, Nepal — evidence-based, medically reviewed.
Occipital neuralgia is a headache disorder characterized by chronic pain in the upper neck, back of the head and behind the ears — caused by irritation or inflammation of the occipital nerves that run from the spinal cord through the muscles at the back of the head.
Pain triggered by neck movement or pressure
Unilateral pain
Management is individualized and discussed with benefits, limitations, and follow-up.
Cervical spine problems (arthritis, disc disease)
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Reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav • Last reviewed: 2026-11-10
Content is educational and aligns with standard medical references; individual evaluation may vary. External links provide context and do not imply endorsement.
Doctor — medically reviewed
Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav
Consultant Neurologist & Headache Specialist • MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), FICN (Neurology), FCNV, FIHM • NMC 8029
This condition guide was medically reviewed by Dr. Jitendra Prasad Yadav.
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Emergency
For sudden neurologic change, thunderclap headache, or seizure >5 min, seek emergency services now.