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.
Reshmi Yandapalli, LAc
Reshmi Yandapalli is a licensed acupuncturist pursuing Bastyr University's Doctoral Program. She has been a California licensed acupuncturist for multiple years and recently moved to Seattle to explore an opportunity in tech. She treats patients in the field of Orthopedic Sports Medicine and Neuro-acupuncture.