Expert: Dr. Brendon J. O`Brien, D.C. - 6/9/2005

Question
Hi Dr; I woke up 3 weeks ago with a terrible neck pain and migraine like headache, the spot that hurts is what i was told is the occipital nerve, I went to a chiropractor and he did X-rays and said I have several pinched nerves then he adjusted my back and neck and told me i needed several weeks of treatment, the pain in the occipital nerve area is still there how soon will that pain go away? I am now hearing about the HIO Method what is the difference and which will be more effective?

Thank you
Cristina  

Answer
Hello Cristina,

   HIO is only adjusting the upper cervical spine.  However your condition may also need myofascial/Muscle therapy!  It is very common for the suboccipital muscle to pinch the nerves, the suboccipital nerve, artery, and vein run through these muscle and may have pressure applied to them at times of stress or tightness.  You may want to find a doctor of chiropractic who specializes in sports/soft tissue therapies.

Let me know how everything works out,

Dr. Brendon O'Brien D.C.