Pinched Occipital Nerve Symptoms

A pinched nerve occurs when too much pressure is applied to the nerve and the bones, muscles or tendons surrounding the area.

Pain

• Pain is often described as being sharp, burning and brief. You may feel burning sensation around the area of the skull that may radiate outward towards other areas of the skull and face.

Numbness

• A numbness sensation may also be felt in the area of the skull after a period of aching or throbbing pain.

Nausea and Vomiting

• The intense pain caused from a pinched occipital nerve can cause you to feel nauseous and may induce vomiting.

Pain Movement

• The pain might begin in the lower area of the neck and radiate, or spread, along the side of the head. The entire scalp and forehead can be painful and the scalp may become tender to the touch.

Decreased Mobility

• Those with a pinched occipital nerve may have decreased mobility in the neck, specifically rotating and flexing the neck.