Occipital Nerve Block

If you're experiencing persistent headaches, neck pain, or sharp shooting pain at the back of your head, an occipital nerve block may provide the targeted relief you need. Our experienced pain management specialists at Synergy Health Partners use this minimally invasive procedure to interrupt pain signals and help you return to comfortable daily activities.

Comprehensive headache and neck pain care—all under one roof.

Find a Pain Management Specialist Schedule Your Consultation

Schedule Your Pain Assessment

Take the first step toward lasting relief with a personalized consultation from our board-certified pain management specialists.
(855) 750-5757

Your Treatment Options for Occipital Nerve Block

At Synergy Health Partners, we offer both diagnostic and therapeutic occipital nerve blocks performed by fellowship-trained pain management physicians. Our comprehensive approach includes advanced imaging guidance and personalized follow-up care to maximize your treatment success.
  • Board-certified pain management specialists with extensive nerve block experience
  • Fluoroscopy-guided precision for optimal needle placement and safety
  • Comprehensive evaluation to identify underlying causes of your pain
  • Coordinated care with physical therapy and other specialists as needed

Non-Surgical Treatments

Start With the Least-Invasive Options

Most patients improve without surgery. Our team takes a conservative-first approach with treatments designed to reduce pain, improve strength, and prevent future flare-ups.

Non-Surgical Pain Management Treatments

  • Diagnostic Occipital Nerve Block This initial procedure helps confirm that your occipital nerves are the source of your pain. Using fluoroscopic guidance, our specialists inject a local anesthetic near the affected nerves to temporarily block pain signals.
    • Confirms diagnosis of occipital neuralgia
    • Provides immediate but temporary pain relief
  • Therapeutic Occipital Nerve Block For longer-lasting relief, we combine local anesthetic with corticosteroid medication. This treatment reduces inflammation around the nerves and can provide pain relief lasting several months.
    • Extended pain relief lasting 3-6 months
    • Reduces inflammation and nerve irritation
  • Ultrasound-Guided Blocks Our advanced ultrasound technology allows for real-time visualization of nerve structures, ensuring precise medication placement while avoiding blood vessels and other sensitive tissues.
    • Enhanced safety with real-time imaging
    • Improved accuracy for optimal results
  • Physical Therapy Integration Following your nerve block, our physical therapists work with you to address muscle tension, posture issues, and movement patterns that may contribute to occipital nerve irritation.
    • Targeted exercises to reduce muscle tension
    • Posture training and ergonomic education
Star
Many patients experience significant pain reduction within hours of their occipital nerve block, with therapeutic blocks providing relief lasting 3-6 months in most cases.

Surgical Options

If Surgery is Right for You

Procedures are determined after evaluation—this list is for education only.
orthopedic services michigan

Watch how our fellowship-trained specialists perform occipital nerve blocks using advanced imaging guidance

Surgical Pain Management Procedures

  • Radiofrequency Ablation For patients who achieve good but temporary relief from nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation offers longer-lasting results. This procedure uses controlled heat to interrupt pain signals from the occipital nerves for 6-12 months or more.
  • Occipital Nerve Stimulation This advanced treatment involves placing small electrodes near the occipital nerves to deliver mild electrical impulses that modify pain signals. The procedure is typically considered for patients with chronic occipital neuralgia who haven't responded to other treatments.
  • Peripheral Nerve Decompression In select cases where occipital nerve compression is caused by tight muscles or fascial bands, surgical decompression may be recommended. This outpatient procedure creates more space for the nerve to reduce irritation and pain.
Star
Over 85% of our patients who undergo radiofrequency ablation experience significant pain reduction lasting 8-12 months, with many able to reduce their pain medication usage.

What to Expect

1

Comprehensive Evaluation

Your pain specialist will review your symptoms, medical history, and imaging studies to confirm that occipital neuralgia is the source of your pain and determine if you're a good candidate for nerve blocks.

2

Pre-Procedure Preparation

We'll explain the procedure, answer your questions, and provide specific instructions. The treatment is performed as an outpatient procedure, typically taking 15-30 minutes.

3

Image-Guided Injection

Using fluoroscopy or ultrasound guidance, your physician will precisely place the needle near the affected occipital nerve and inject the medication. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure.

4

Recovery and Monitoring

You'll rest in our recovery area for 15-30 minutes while we monitor your response to the injection. Most patients can return home the same day with a driver.

5

Follow-Up Care

We'll schedule follow-up appointments to assess your pain relief and determine if additional treatments are needed. Our team coordinates with your other healthcare providers to optimize your overall care plan.

REAL EXPERIENCES—FROM EVALUATION THROUGH RECOVERY.

What Patients Say

RC
I highly recommend Dr. lee, he performed Back Surgery on me in August and I have had a complete and satisfactory recovery.

R C.

A
I was acquainted with doctor Kevin Lee before I had a brain biopsy at Detroit Receiving Hospital, when I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Dr. Kevin Lee is a compassionate man and I am at awe of him. If someone has a problem with my comments, he/she should speak to James Shaw.

Anonymous

A
I highly recommend Dr. Lee to anyone seeking relief from spinal issues. He and his office are always a pleasure to work with. I have been getting treatment from Dr. Lee for approximately 5 yrs and throughout that time his office always returned my calls with answers to my questions. I never felt pressured into surgery, and was always treated as knowledgeable with time given to answers for all my questions. All this is a BIG plus in the healing process and the doctor/patient relationship.

Anonymous

LK
I have been going to Dr. Lee for about 3 years now. I am very happy with the treatment he has provided to me. There is no pressure to do any major surgery. He has helped me tremendously. I would highly recommend him.

L K.

A
In the summer of 2019 I had excruciating pain in my low back. DR. Lee ordered an MRI which showed several bulging disks. In September he gave me 2 steroid shots under anesthetic so I felt no pain. Soon after the shots I got up from the table, walked out pain free. It is now summer of 2023 ( 4 years) and the pain has not returned. I am very pleased and recommend Dr. Lee to my friends.

Anonymous

LM
Doctor Brian Kassa is an excellent pain management physician, he was very thorough explaining to process to me and asked if I had any questions.The team who surrounded him professionalism was outstanding.I would recommend Doctor Kassa to family and friends.

Leaudry M.

HG
Dr Lee is very professional and knowledgeable and has been very helpful with my back problems. He has performed several back procedures for me and has really helped me to get back to a normal life.

hey G.

HS
I was seen by Dr. Kassa for my back pain. My previous surgeon recommended surgery but I wanted to hold off. Dr. Kassa was very polite, smart and understanding. He walked me through every step. I recommend him to anyone in need of pain management.

Herr S.

MA
Dr. Kassa is a new dr to take care of my pain management since Dr Hall left the practice. I met with him & was very impressed.

Mary P.

AG
Love the facility and the staff, Dr Kevin Lee for their professional services and taking care of my healthcare needs.

Ardella G.

ST
I really like this clinic. They are knowledgeable and everyone is very kind. I have been going there for my L ankle and L hip and I will continue with them.

sherrie T.

G
Great care and caring physicians Dr. Kassa and PA Evan are both great and caring to their patients. Both listen to their patients and give the best advice. I feel very comfortable in their care.

Georgina

HG
Dr Lee is very helpful and knowledgeable. He has helped me with my back pain and as a great bedside manner.

hey G.

PW
I saw Dr Kassa for my initial consideration. He seems very knowledgeable, conducted his examination and expressed a desire to determine the underlying root of my pain and discomfort. He ordered the testing needed and showed genuine concern for me as a patient.

Penny W.

A
Dr. Kassa was very thorough, very kind, and he spent all the time I needed so I understood everything. He has always been very knowledgeable and very caring. He truly is concerned about me and what I need to get better. He's an outstanding doctor. I highly recommend him for anybody who needs pain management or other orthopedic help.

Anonymous

GN
Dr.Kassa is amazing. He goes through everything, explaining things in a way that's simple to understand. He genuinely cares about my condition and also addresses other conditions of previous treatments, he also is attentive of my medical history outside of synergy as not to prescribe conflicting medicine or treatment. Personally and professionally he's great guy. He's a doctor that still greats you with a handshake and a smile.

Gjergi N.

AK
I am a complicated case and Dr Kassa has followed a progressive plan that made my spinal pain go away. Between procedures he was able to keep me pain-free so I could continue working. He is doing everything to avoid surgery. I appreciate his informed and open "bedside manner". I trust this team!

Alex K.

A
Great doctor actually spends time visiting with you and listens to your concerns. You can tell he has your best interest at heart and deeply cares. I would recommend to my wife or sister. 5 stars

Anonymous

C
I love how he gives you all information no force on his decision ❤️ gives you all your options for your condition 💯

Cam

A
Dr. Kassa is great. He doesn't talk down, but still makes sure you fully understand. Dr. Kassa cares about helping to get rid of my pain.

Anonymous

Your Pain Management Experts

Meet the providers who specialize in Pain Management

Brian Kassa Website Image 2026
Pain Management

Brian Kassa, DO

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5.0
Book Appointment
kevin r lee md Kevin Lee web profile copy 4
Pain Management

Kevin R. Lee, MD

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5.0
Book Appointment
anthony j oddo
Pain Management

Anthony J. Oddo, DO

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5.0
Book Appointment
Hanish Singh Website Profile Image
Pain Management

Hanish Singh, MD

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5.0
Book Appointment
View Pain Management Team

Pain Management Care Near Me

Full-Service Clinics

Troy

Directions
5107 Rochester Rd Troy, MI 48085 • (855) 750-5757
Full-Service Clinics

Sterling Heights

Directions
35735 Mound Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48310 • (855) 750-5757
Surgical Centers

Synergy Surgery Center

Directions
5504 E. 12 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48071 • (586) 838-2035
Full-Service Clinics

Southfield

Directions
29275 Northwestern Hwy, #207, Southfield, MI 48034 • (855) 750-5757
Full-Service Clinics

Port Huron

Directions
600 Fort St #100, Port Huron, MI 48060 • (855) 750-5757
Surgical Centers

Genesys
Surgery Center

Directions
36622 Five Mile Rd, Suite 201, Livonia, MI 48154 • (855) 750-5757
Full-Service Clinics

Livonia

Directions
36622 Five Mile Rd, Suite 101, Livonia, MI 48154 • (855) 750-5757
Book Appointment

PROVEN RESULTS

Why Choose Synergy?

Our fellowship-trained pain management specialists have performed thousands of occipital nerve blocks, combining advanced techniques with comprehensive care coordination.
0 %

Patient Satisfaction Rate

(6 Month Follow-up)

0 %

Significant Pain Reduction

(First Treatment)

0 %

Return to Normal Activities

(Within 1 Week)

Data Source: CODE Technology PRO Surveys (2025).