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.
S. Scott Tauber, DC, DABCO, CPC
Dr. S. Scott Tauber is the COO and director of education for the American Institute of Personal Injury Physicians (AIPIP), which assists physicians in improving, protecting, growing and marketing their personal-injury practices. He is also a diplomate of the American Board of Chiropractic Orthopedists and a certified professional coder.