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.
Belinda Anderson, PhD, MA (Ed.), DAc
Dr. Belinda Anderson is associate dean and professor at Pace University in the College of Health Professions, and associate clinical professor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. An NIH-funded researcher, her recent research has involved clinical trials implementing acupuncture in community-based clinics, educating clinicians in research and evidence-based medicine, and the use of Chinese herbs to treat COVID-19 symptoms. Dr. Anderson is a licensed acupuncturist specializing in women’s health and fertility; and is a board member of the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine.