Magnesium & Occipital Neuralgia

Occipital neuralgia, also called C2 neuralgia, is a rare medical condition characterized by pain in the upper neck, ears and the back of the head. It is normally the result of damage to the occipital nerves.

Identification

• There are two occipital nerves, one on each side of the head, originating between the bones of the neck and stretching toward the face. When these nerves become damaged or irritated, the result is shooting or stabbing pain in varying degrees, and in some cases extreme scalp sensitivity.

Treatments

• Once an accurate diagnosis of occipital neuralgia is made, there are several options available to alleviate symptoms. According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, some of these treatments include medications, nerve blocks and occipital nerve stimulation. The U.S. National Library of Medicine reports that magnesium supplements are an effective and safe way to treat neuropathic pain.

Significance of Magnesium

• According to a study published in the May 24th, 2002, issue of the Oxford Medical Journals, patients treated with I.V. magnesium sulfate cited significantly lower levels of neuropathic pain. The study showed that magnesium blocks the n-methyl-d-aspartate receptors which are responsible, in part, for conditions of hypersensitive nerve pain.