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.
Stephanie Schneider
Stephanie Schneider is a licensed acupuncturist in California and New York. She recently completed her doctoral studies in Ayurvedic Medicine at AUCM in Los Angeles, Calif.. She studied in China and Vietnam and will be doing post-doctoral studies in India. She maintains a private practice in Calabasas, Calif. and Tuxedo Park, N.Y.