ConditionHead, face & pelvis
Headache & facial pain
Not every headache is a migraine. A proportion originate in the upper neck or in a specific nerve, and those respond to targeted treatment that general headache management never reaches.
Also calledCervicogenic headacheOccipital neuralgiaTrigeminal pain
What it is
Headache arising from structures in the upper cervical spine (cervicogenic headache), from the occipital nerves at the back of the head, or from the trigeminal system in the face. Each has a distinct pattern and a distinct treatment.
What it feels like
- Pain starting at the base of the skull and spreading over one side of the head
- Triggered or worsened by neck position and sustained posture
- Scalp tenderness, or a sharp shooting pain over the back of the head
- Brief, severe, electric facial pain triggered by touch, chewing or cold air
How we assess it
A detailed pattern history, cervical spine examination and palpation of the occipital nerves. Where the picture fits, a diagnostic block both confirms the source and provides relief.
Anything suggesting a primary neurological cause is referred appropriately — we work with your neurologist rather than around them.
Treatment options
- Greater or lesser occipital nerve block
- Cervical facet or medial branch block for cervicogenic patterns
- Radiofrequency neurotomy where blocks confirm the source
- Medication review, including addressing medication-overuse headache
What recovery looks like
Blocks are diagnostic as much as therapeutic. A clear response points to a durable next step; no response is equally informative and redirects the plan.
Risks and honest limits
Sudden severe headache, headache with fever, or headache with new neurological signs needs emergency assessment, not an outpatient appointment.
A note on this page
This is general information, written to help you prepare for a conversation. It is not a substitute for an individual assessment — what is right for you depends on your history, your examination and your own goals.
Common questions
Asked before, answered here
Yes. This is complementary care focused on the musculoskeletal and nerve contributors.
It is the single most useful thing you can bring. Two weeks of timing, triggers and medication taken is often diagnostic.
—Begin
Have this assessed properly
Send a few lines about your pain and how long it has been going on. We will reply with a time and what to bring.
Visit
Level 2, 48 Macquarie StreetSydney, NSW 2000Response
Enquiries are answered within one to two business days. Urgent clinical matters are triaged the same day by the practice team.