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.
Leng Tang-Ritchie, DAOM, MSTOM, LAc
Dr. Leng Tang-Ritchie is the vice president of clinical education and operations at Pacific College of Health and Science. She also brings her expertise to U.C. San Diego Health’s Center for Integrative Medicine, where she integrates traditional practices with modern health care. She is finishing a Master of Healthcare Administration degree at UCLA and furthering her commitment to advancing health care education and patient care.