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.
Hyungsuk Choi, PhD, KMD, LAc
Dr. Hyungsuk Choi has studied traditional Korean medicine at the renowned Kyung Hee University. He received his PhD in integrative medicine from Cha University. Dr. Choi has numerous publications in peer-reviewed medical journals and continues to work as a university researcher in the South Korean public health care sector.