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.
Gilian Lata, LAc, Dipl. OM
Gilian Lata graduated summa cum laude with departmental honors from UCLA and then earned a master's degree in Oriental medicine from Emperor's College of Traditional Oriental Medicine. She practices at Restorative Acupuncture in Studio City, Calif.