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Can a pinched nerve cause a headache?
I have very stiff muscles and decided to stretch (which I hardly ever do). Afterward, I developed a terrible headache that has persisted for two days. Could this have been caused by a pinched nerve? I feel like that is a strong possibility.
Now, should I try stretching again to "straighten out" the nerve? I've tried taking Excedrin and Tylenol, but they don't seem to be working.
Now, should I try stretching again to "straighten out" the nerve? I've tried taking Excedrin and Tylenol, but they don't seem to be working.
30 yr old, Male
asked Nov 24, 2009 at 10:21AM in Neurology/Brain Disorders
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3Votes
answered Nov 24, 2009 at 01:58PMYes, vigorous stretching and other physical activity in someone not accustomed to it can cause muscles to go into spasm and result in a "pinched nerve" or nerve entrapment. The most common nerve involved in headaches is the occipital nerve with pain starting in the back of the head and often radiating forward. Pain medications, muscle relaxants, heat, acupuncture, and massage can help, but when the pain persist an occipital nerve block can be very effective. The best way to prevent this is to stay in good shape - doing aerobic exercise, 20-30 minutes 4-5 times a week and isometric neck exercise to strengthen neck muscles. In unusually prolonged cases that do not respond to treatment, Botox injections can be very effective. For more info see www.NYHeadache.com -
4Votes
answered Nov 28, 2009 at 04:34AMI hope you are over your problem by now, but sure, as Dr. Mauskop suggests occipital nerve pain can be the cause of headaches that start in the back of the head.
Let me emphasize posture. Pinching of the occipital nerve can occur or be made worse by a forward head posture. Try to keep your head and shoulders in good neutral alignment; draw your head back so that your ears are more over your shoulders. This takes pressure off the occipital nerve. A good exercise to stretch the suboccipital muscles is to do gentle head nods in the neutral alignment.
See a physical therapist in your area for more good advice. Good luck.
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The content on or accessible through Medpedia.com is for informational purposes only. Medpedia is not a substitute for professional advice or expert medical services from a qualified health professional.
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