The sternocleidomastoid muscle, which connects the head, neck and upper spine, has direct neurological relationships with both the trigeminal system and upper cervical nerves. When irritated or tight, this muscle can mimic or drive migraine symptoms – headache, eye redness, drooping eyelids, and restricted neck movement. This case demonstrates how important it is to assess and treat the musculoskeletal system in patients whose migraines don’t respond to conventional care.
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Samuel A. Collins
Samuel A. Collins is the director of the H.J. Ross Network, a consulting group for doctors on billing and collection for insurance claims. He is a featured speaker on billing and coding for the AAOM and the California State Oriental Medical Association, as well as many acupuncture colleges. You are encouraged to submit your billing questions to him at sam@hjrossnetwork.com.
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