Are you suffering from persistent headaches, sharp pain in the back of your head, or neck stiffness? These could be signs of occipital neuralgia, a condition caused by irritation or injury to the occipital nerves, which run from the top of the spinal cord to the scalp. If you’re experiencing these symptoms and seeking relief, Dr. Ben England at Pursuit Physical Therapy in Fort Wayne, Indiana, offers specialized treatments to address occipital neuralgia pain. This blog will highlight how Dr. England’s expertise and tailored approach can help you find lasting relief and restore your quality of life.
What Is Occipital Neuralgia?
Occipital neuralgia is a condition that causes excruciating pain, usually felt as sharp, shooting, or burning sensations, along the occipital nerves. These nerves are located at the base of the skull and run up the back of the head. When they become irritated or compressed, the result can be severe headaches, sensitivity to light, neck pain, and even scalp tenderness.
Common symptoms of occipital neuralgia include:
Intense pain in the upper neck, back of the head, or behind the eyes
Pain that is often described as sharp or electric-like
Sensitivity in the scalp, making it uncomfortable to touch or comb your hair
Pain that worsens with neck movement or pressure
Difficulty sleeping or concentrating due to persistent pain
Why Seek Treatment with Dr. Ben England?
If you’re struggling with occipital neuralgia pain, it’s crucial to consult with a specialist who can accurately diagnose and treat your condition. Dr. Ben England, a skilled physical therapist at Pursuit Physical Therapy, specializes in treating neurological and musculoskeletal pain conditions like occipital neuralgia.
Here’s why patients trust Dr. England to help with their occipital neuralgia:
Expertise in Neurological Pain Management: Dr. England has extensive experience in treating complex pain conditions, including occipital neuralgia. His approach involves identifying the root cause of the nerve irritation and creating a personalized treatment plan.
Holistic and Non-Surgical Solutions: Dr. England focuses on non-invasive treatments that address the underlying issues without resorting to surgery or medications. This allows patients to find relief while avoiding the risks and side effects of more invasive procedures.
Patient-Centered Care: At Pursuit Physical Therapy, every patient’s treatment plan is customized to their unique needs. Dr. England takes the time to understand each patient’s symptoms and goals, ensuring a tailored approach to healing.
Treatment Options for Occipital Neuralgia at Pursuit Physical Therapy
At Pursuit Physical Therapy, Dr. Ben England offers a variety of effective treatments designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, and promote healing for patients with occipital neuralgia. Here are some of the most common treatment options that Dr. England may use to help you recover:
1. Manual Therapy
Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques designed to relieve muscle tension, restore movement, and alleviate nerve compression. Dr. England may use gentle manipulation of the neck and upper spine to reduce pressure on the occipital nerves. This can help decrease pain and improve flexibility, allowing for better mobility and comfort.
2. Neck and Postural Strengthening Exercises
Weak neck muscles can contribute to nerve compression and pain. Dr. England will design a series of targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles that support the neck and upper spine. Strengthening these muscles can relieve pressure on the occipital nerves, reduce headaches, and prevent future flare-ups.
3. Nerve Mobilization Techniques
For patients with occipital neuralgia, nerve mobilization techniques can help relieve the irritation and tension in the occipital nerves. These techniques gently move the affected nerves through the surrounding tissue, improving their function and reducing pain. By restoring proper nerve function, Dr. England helps patients experience long-lasting relief.
4. Dry Needling
Dry needling is a technique where thin needles are inserted into specific trigger points in the muscles to release tension and improve blood flow. For occipital neuralgia patients, dry needling can help target areas of muscle tightness that may be irritating the occipital nerves. This therapy can provide significant relief by promoting healing and reducing pain.
5. Heat and Cold Therapy
Heat and cold applications are commonly used to reduce inflammation and provide immediate relief from muscle tightness. Dr. England may recommend the use of hot packs or cold compresses on the neck and upper back to alleviate pain and promote relaxation of the affected muscles.
6. Education and Lifestyle Modifications
A key component of Dr. England’s approach is educating patients on proper posture and ergonomics to prevent further aggravation of occipital neuralgia. He will provide tips on how to manage stress, adjust your workstation setup, and incorporate healthy habits into your daily routine to reduce pain and avoid future flare-ups.
Why Choose Pursuit Physical Therapy for Occipital Neuralgia Treatment?
Experienced Team: Dr. Ben England and his team are dedicated to helping patients find long-term relief from chronic pain. With years of experience and a commitment to patient-centered care, Pursuit Physical Therapy offers a trusted path to healing.
Non-Surgical Solutions: Rather than recommending surgery or relying on medications with potential side effects, Dr. England takes a holistic approach to treat occipital neuralgia, allowing you to explore non-invasive options that are safe and effective.
Personalized Care Plans: Every patient is unique, and so is their treatment plan. Dr. England creates individualized treatment strategies based on your specific symptoms, goals, and lifestyle, ensuring you receive the most effective care.
Conclusion
If you’re dealing with the frustration of occipital neuralgia and haven’t found lasting relief, Dr. Ben England at Pursuit Physical Therapy in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is here to help. With a combination of expert techniques, personalized care, and non-invasive treatments, Dr. England can help you regain control of your life and reduce the pain that’s been holding you back.
Don’t let occipital neuralgia control your life. Contact Pursuit Physical Therapy today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ben England. Together, you can create a treatment plan that will help you find lasting relief and get back to doing the things you love.
Patient Stories
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