How do you distinguish between occipital neuralgia and cervical facet syndrome?

Neck pain: Occipital neuralgia typically causes headache, starting at the base of the back of the skull and radiating into the back of the head, behind the ears. Cervical facet syndrome, on the other hand, typically cases pain right in the neck itself, either on one side or both sides, depending on which facets are involved. Imaging studies and diagnostic spinal injections can help differentiate.

Similar Pains: Sometimes the facet joint nerves can connect with the occipital nerve causing both. Sometimes they are separate issues altogether. Generally speaking extending and rotating your neck with cause facet pain syndrome and pressing on the back of your head may cause occipital neuralgia. See a pain specialist to help you determine the difference between the two.