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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Kenton Sefcik, RAc, Dipl. Ac., Dipl. TCM
Kenton Sefcik graduated from the Alberta College of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2007 with a diploma in acupuncture, and a diploma in Chinese medicine. He has taught for acupuncture colleges, acupuncture associations, and lectured for naturopathic doctor conferences across Canada. His goal is to give back to the community by helping recent graduates gain more confidence in the skills they went to school for. Kenton resides in Nova Scotia, Canada. For more information, visit kentonsefcik.com.