An occipital nerve block is a medical procedure used to treat headaches, including migraine and cluster headaches, that are thought to involve the greater and lesser occipital nerves. These nerves are located at the back of the head and can be a source of headache pain when irritated or inflamed.

The procedure itself involves the injection of pain-relieving medication, which typically includes a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid, near the occipital nerves. This injection helps to decrease inflammation and swelling around the nerves, which can in turn reduce pain and alleviate headache symptoms.

Occipital nerve blocks are generally considered when other treatments have failed to provide adequate relief. The effects of the block can vary in duration, offering relief from pain for weeks or even months. This treatment is often part of a broader management plan that may include other medications or therapies to control headache symptoms.