Sternocleidomastoid: Pain Pattern and Treatment
The SCM runs from behind the ear to the breastbone and collarbone in two divisions. The sternal division’s documented pattern projects to the cheek, over the eye, the occiput, and the throat; the clavicular division may refer to the forehead and deep into the ear. Dizziness with head turns is described with the clavicular division.
Attachments and action
Origin: Two heads: the manubrium of the sternum and the medial third of the clavicle.
Insertion: The mastoid process behind the ear and the lateral portion of the superior nuchal line of the skull.
Action: Rotation of the head to the opposite side and lateral flexion to the same side; flexion of the neck when both sides act. The muscle also assists breathing by elevating the sternum.
Where the pain is felt: The forehead, around and behind the eye, the ear, and the cheek. The muscle itself sits at the front of the neck, yet the pain shows up in the face and head.
Common causes: Forward-head posture, long screen sessions, painting ceilings or overhead work, whiplash, sleeping on the stomach with the head turned.
Patients say: Headache over the eye. Ear fullness or face pain with a normal ear exam. Dizziness when turning the head quickly.
When to get evaluated: New dizziness with hearing loss, slurred speech, facial droop, or loss of balance needs medical evaluation first.
How this muscle is examined and treated
The muscle is examined in a pincer grasp, rolled gently between thumb and fingers along its length, division by division. An active point may reproduce the facial or eye pain at a location far from the neck. Needling is precise here given the structures nearby; this muscle rewards experienced hands. Assessment and treatment happen in the same visit.
Related conditions
Headaches & MigrainesNeck & Cervical Pain
This page is educational. It describes muscle referral patterns commonly associated with pain; it does not diagnose your condition. Individual patterns vary. For evaluation of your specific pain, see a licensed clinician. Seek immediate medical care for emergencies. Eugene Baek, L.Ac. · New Jersey License 25MZ00080600