Eye pain or discomfort can be concerning, especially when it feels like it’s originating from behind the eye or in its immediate vicinity. If you’ve ruled out serious eye conditions or other medical issues with your healthcare provider, the cause might be surprising—it could be a muscle issue. Specifically, the sternocleidomastoid muscle (SCM), located in the neck, may be responsible. This article will explore how this muscle contributes to eye pain, its potential triggers, and what you can do about it.
Understanding the Sternocleidomastoid Muscle
The sternocleidomastoid muscle, often abbreviated as SCM, plays a crucial role in head and neck movement. This long, strap-like muscle extends from the base of the skull (behind the ear), travels down along the side of the neck, and attaches to the collarbone and sternum.
Anatomy of the SCM
The SCM has two key attachment points:
- Upper attachment: The base of the skull, just behind the ear.
- Lower attachment: The collarbone (clavicle) and sternum (breastbone).
When you turn your head, you can see the SCM muscle become more prominent on the side of your neck. It helps with rotating the head, tilting it to one side, and assisting in flexing the neck forward.
How the SCM Can Cause Eye Pain
Referred Pain
The SCM muscle doesn’t usually cause pain at its own site of attachment. Instead, it can refer pain to other areas, including around and behind the eyes. You might experience:
- Pain in the forehead.
- A sensation of pain behind the eye.
- Tenderness around the eye socket.
This referred pain is due to the way trigger points in the SCM interact with nearby nerves, creating a sensation that mimics eye pain.
Visual Disturbances
The SCM can also contribute to visual problems, including:
- Blurry vision.
- Foggy vision.
- Light sensitivity.
These issues occur because the SCM influences nerves and blood vessels that affect the eyes.
Why Does the SCM Become Problematic?
A variety of factors can cause the SCM to develop tension or trigger points, leading to pain and other symptoms.
1. Trauma
Injuries such as:
- Car accidents.
- Falls.
- Sports injuries.
These can strain the SCM, especially if there’s sudden movement of the head and neck.
2. Poor Posture
Modern lifestyles often lead to poor posture, which significantly impacts the SCM. Examples include:
- Sitting at a computer for long hours with the head and neck pushed forward.
- Using smartphones or tablets for extended periods (tech neck).
- Holding the neck in awkward positions, as seen in certain professions (e.g., dentists leaning over patients).
3. Compensatory Strain
Issues elsewhere in the body can indirectly affect the SCM. For example:
- A low back problem might alter your posture, forcing the neck and head into compensatory positions that strain the SCM.
Identifying SCM-Related Issues
If you suspect the SCM is contributing to your symptoms, there are several indicators to look for:
- Palpation: Gently pressing along the side of your neck where the SCM is located might reveal tender spots or trigger points.
- Symptom mapping: If pressing these areas reproduces the eye pain or visual disturbances, the SCM is likely involved.
- Movement tests: Turning or tilting your head can highlight stiffness or discomfort associated with SCM tension.
Addressing SCM Issues
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to manage SCM-related problems and alleviate symptoms.
1. Stretching and Strengthening
Gentle stretching exercises can help release tension in the SCM. Examples include:
- Neck stretches: Tilt your head toward one shoulder while keeping the opposite shoulder relaxed.
- Head rotation: Slowly turn your head from side to side to maintain flexibility.
Strengthening exercises for the neck and upper back can improve posture and prevent future strain.
2. Improving Posture
Ergonomic adjustments can prevent the SCM from becoming overworked. Tips include:
- Positioning your computer screen at eye level to avoid leaning forward.
- Using a chair with good lumbar support.
- Taking regular breaks from sitting to stretch and reset your posture.
3. Massage and Trigger Point Therapy
Professional massage therapists or physical therapists can work on releasing trigger points in the SCM. Self-massage techniques, such as gently kneading the muscle with your fingers, can also provide relief.
4. Addressing Underlying Issues
If poor posture or compensatory strain is due to an issue elsewhere in the body, addressing that root cause is essential. For instance:
- Consulting a physical therapist for a tailored rehabilitation plan.
- Using supportive footwear to correct gait abnormalities.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many SCM issues can be addressed through self-care, persistent or severe symptoms may require professional evaluation. Consider consulting:
- A physical therapist or chiropractor for musculoskeletal issues.
- An ophthalmologist if visual disturbances persist.
- A primary care physician to rule out other potential causes of eye pain.
Final Thoughts
Eye pain linked to muscle issues, particularly the sternocleidomastoid, is often overlooked. However, understanding the role of this muscle and addressing potential contributing factors can make a significant difference. Whether it’s through stretching, posture improvement, or professional intervention, you can take proactive steps to alleviate discomfort and restore your quality of life.
Also Read: How to Examine Your Sternocleidomastoid Muscle for Problems
About:
I’m Hina Sheth. I have been treating complex orthopedics, sports and pelvic floor physical problems for over 25 years with amazing results. Now I want to bring my knowledge to the global community so I can spread my knowledge to you.
Our bodies are complex systems of 600 muscles and organs intertwined in a fascial system that all work together. Imbalances in this system such as trigger points, visceral and myofascial restrictions can lead to joint, pelvic, and organ issues.
Factors like nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress play a crucial role. Unfortunately, our current healthcare model does not look at our bodies as a whole and oftentimes compartmentalize musculoskeletal injuries and dysfunctions.
At Rebalance, our goal is to holistically treat this complex system to restore harmony in the body. By addressing these imbalances, we help clients improve their overall health and well-being. Our vision is to empower individuals to create a healthier lifestyle for themselves.
