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.
Jane Grissmer, MAc, Dipl. Ac.
Jane Grissmer is the founder and co-director of Crossings Healing & Wellness in Silver Spring, Md. She is also division chair of theory in the Master of Acupuncture program at the Maryland University of Integrative Health. Contact Jane with questions and comments regarding this article at jgrissmer@crossingshealing.com.