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.
Dongcheng Li, DOM, AP
Dongcheng Li is a Florida licensed acupuncture physician. He holds a Diplomate in Oriental Medicine from the National Certifi cation Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Dr. Li has practiced acupuncture and oriental medicine for more than 15 years in China and the U.S. He has two private practice in South Florida. He is specialized in pain management, sport medicine, internal diseases, gynecological diseases and geriatric diseases. For more information, visit www.globaltcm.com.