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.
Healthcare Policy and Functional Medicine
Bill Reddy, LAc, Dipl. Ac.
Bill Reddy serves on the editorial boards of four national peer-reviewed medical journals, and has supported the AOM profession on a state and national level. He is the owner/operator of Vital Point Acupuncture clinic in Annandale, Va. For more information, visit www.BillReddy.com.
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Co-Author: Amy Mager, DACM, LAc, Dipl. OM (NCCAOM), FABORM