Occipital nerve stimulation can be used to treat chronic headaches (headaches that occur for more than 15 days a month, for longer than three months) that have not responded to previous treatments.

It can also be used for neuralgia or neuropathic pain, which is caused by damage or injury to the nerves. This type of pain may not respond to normal painkillers like paracetamol, or anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen.

Occipital nerve stimulation has also been shown to be effective in treating chronic migraines and cluster headaches (sudden, excruciating headaches that usually affect one side of the head and eyes, and occur in short bursts of time).

How is it performed and what is involved?

Occipital nerve stimulation involves implanting a small electrical device, similar to a pacemaker, under the skin on the chest. This is connected to tiny electrical wires (electrodes), which are placed under the skin around the back of the head.

Electrical impulses are sent through the electrodes to specific nerves. These impulses are not usually noticeable but can occasionally cause a tingling sensation.

There are many theories as to exactly how occipital nerve stimulation improves pain, but it is thought to work by stopping overactive nerves carrying pain signals to the brain.

A trial period is carried out before permanently implanting the device. This involves connecting the electrodes to an external electrical device. The patient keeps a pain diary for approximately a week.

The permanent device is only implanted if a significant improvement in pain is reported. Positioning of the temporary trial device involves minor day case surgery, while implanting a permanent device will usually require a one to two night hospital stay. Patients are taught how to operate the device themselves. This includes how to adjust the amount of stimulation, charge the device and prevent it getting damaged. Our specialist teams will follow up with each patient and stay in close contact with them following the procedure.