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.
Liz Dart, BS, MSAOM, EAMP, LMP
Liz Dart specializes in Orthopedic Acupuncture, Electro-acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and Fertility. She has been a practitioner of the healing arts for 15 years and is completing her DAOM at Bastyr University.