What is Greater Auricular Neuralgia?
Greater Auricular Neuralgia (GAN) is a rare nerve pain syndrome originating from irritation or injury to the great auricular nerve—a sensory branch of the cervical plexus (C2–C3). This nerve supplies the skin over the side of the neck, lower ear (pinna), jaw angle, and part of the face
Signs & Symptoms You May Experience
- Paroxysmal, stabbing or electric‑shock–like pain along the nerve’s distribution—jaw angle, ear, lower face, and neck
- Often triggered by turning the head, touching the neck, yawning, chewing, or pressure during sleep
- Occasionally accompanied by burning, dull ache between attacks or associated autonomic symptoms such as ear flushing or redness (“red ear”)
- Can be idiopathic or secondary to trauma, surgery (e.g., parotid or mastoid procedures), tumors, or underlying systemic diseases
Common Causes of Greater Auricular Neuralgia
- Neck trauma or whiplash
- Cervical spine arthritis (especially at C2–C3)
- Surgical procedures near the ear, jaw, or neck (e.g., parotid or mastoid surgery)
- External compression from tight straps, collars, or prolonged head positioning
Greater Auricular Neuralgia Can Effect
- Sensation in the lower ear and jawline – leading to pain, numbness, or tingling
- Neck movement – pain may worsen with turning or tilting the head
- Sleep quality – discomfort from head position or pillow pressure
- Daily activities – actions like shaving, wearing glasses, or using a phone can trigger pain
Steps in Diagnosing Greater Auricular Neuralgia
- Clinical Examination
- Ultrasonography
- Nerve Conduction Study
What type of treatments do we offer?
Why choose TampaPainMD?
At Tampa Pain MD, we specialize in diagnosing and treating complex nerve conditions like Greater Auricular Neuralgia with precision and compassion. Our board-certified pain specialist, Dr. Arun Kalava uses advanced, minimally invasive techniques—including ultrasound-guided nerve blocks and neuromodulation—to deliver effective, opioid-free relief. We prioritize personalized care, short wait times, and a patient-centered approach to help you get back to living pain-free.
Contact Us
If you’re experiencing symptoms of Greater Auricular Neuralgia, Contact Tampa Pain MD to schedule a comprehensive evaluation. Our team is dedicated to identifying the underlying cause of your pain and developing an effective treatment plan tailored to your needs.
