NCT07796074 · Yale University
Greater Occipital Nerve Blockade in Veterans With Post-concussion Headache: Sub-study 2
What this study is about
Anesthetic greater occipital nerve (GON) blockade is a simple, inexpensive, and safe procedure that has demonstrable headache pain suppressing effects. In this study, Veterans with post-traumatic headache will be randomly assigned to receive 0.0%, 0.05%, or 0.5% bupivacaine in bilateral GON blocks and the lasting (i.e., transitional) effects on headache frequency measured in a headache diary.
View original scientific description
Anesthetic greater occipital nerve (GON) blockade is a simple, inexpensive, and safe procedure that has demonstrable headache pain suppressing effects. In this study, Veterans with post-traumatic headache will be randomized to receive 0.0%, 0.05%, or 0.5% bupivacaine in bilateral GON blocks and the lasting (i.e., transitional) effects on headache frequency measured in a headache diary.
Interventions
OTHER
Bupivacaine bilateral greater occipital nerve block
Three subcutaneous injections of 1 mL each will be injected on both sides of the occipital region around the greater occipital nerve.
Primary outcome measures
Change in headache days/week in the first month
Time frame: From one month before to one month after injection
Change in the weekly number of headache days after GON blockade
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- United States Military Veterans within VA Connecticut Healthcare System1.
- Head injury with headaches that have continued to occur for at least three months after the head injury
- At least two headache days per week
- Review of the medical record does not reveal another source for headache
Exclusion criteria
- Skull defect
- Other contraindication to bupivacaine
- Allergy or adverse reaction (e.g., rash, cardiac effects) to amide anesthetics, such as lidocaine
- Instruction from clinician to avoid amide anesthetics, such as lidocaine
- Pregnant or lack of adequate birth control
- Clinical review of the patient's case reveals red flag signs or symptoms (e.g., side-locked pain, unilateral numbness/weakness during headache, rapid ascension to peak pain, syncope during attacks) that warrant further work-up (e.g., MRI, arterial imaging).
- Absence of imaging warranted by the standard of clinical care for the head injury with headaches.
Where
- West Haven, Connecticut
Collaborators
VA Connecticut Healthcare System, National Headache Foundation
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 31, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations