Question
Dear doctor,

I have been suffering from pressure near/around the temporal bone for about 6 months now.At times it feels like tight bands around my head.  When I press down on the bone it hurts as if I got hurt. The crown of my scalp hurts when I touch it or when I wash my hair. Also I noticed that the back of my head hurts slightly as well. At first I thought it may of been a sinus problem, but a ct scan showed mild-chronic sinusitis. Can you please tell me, whether or not this is related to sinusitis, or if may be nerve demage.  I have visited a chiropractor and he stated that my symptoms are related to greater occipital nerve. Also do you recommend a cervical spine MRI? Thank you

Answer
Dear Maria,

This does sound like occipital neuritis.  If the DC could not change it with soft tissue therapy and joint manipulation, and of stretching and other home care efforts have failed, you should consider seeing a physiatrist.  The MD physiatrist can assess your condition and determine if MRI is most appropriate, or if intramuscular or joint injections (blocks) are worthwhile trying.  

'Hope this helps.

Dr. G

p.s.  Sorry for the delay in responding.  I was away last week.