[1] First described by American otorhinolaryngologist Watt Weems Eagle in 1937,[5] the condition is caused by an elongated or misshapen styloid process (the slender, pointed piece of bone just below the ear) and/or calcification of the stylohyoid ligament, either of which interferes with the functioning of neighboring regions in the body, such as the glossopharyngeal nerve.

[6] In vascular Eagle syndrome, the elongated styloid process comes in contact with the internal carotid artery below the skull.

[8][9][10] Eagle syndrome occurs due to elongation of the styloid process or calcification of the stylohyoid ligament, potentially compressing the nearby carotid artery or glossopharyngeal nerve.

[12] Diagnosis is suspected when a patient presents with the symptoms of the classic form of "Eagle syndrome" e.g. unilateral neck pain, sore throat or tinnitus.

Studies have shown that consistent physical therapy can significantly reduce pain and improve quality of life for patients with Eagle Syndrome.

Techniques may include manual therapy, stretching exercises, and specific movements to alleviate tension and improve muscle function.

[15] Approximately 4% of the general population have an elongated styloid process, and of these about 4% give rise to the symptoms of Eagle syndrome.