The nerves that control most of the feeling in the back of your head are called the occipital nerves. There is one occipital nerve on each side of your head, and they travel up to the top of your head. When one or more of these nerves is irritated, pinched, or compressed, intense pain and uncomfortable symptoms result. In most cases, the pain will improve with home remedies or medication. If the problem persists or recurs, however, a doctor may recommend injections or possibly surgery.