My theory: Ear pain is originating from a cranial nerve.

SCM's, scalenes and host of other COUNTLESS neck junk are pulling on the c-spine and joint facets and causing nerve compression in the cranial nerves. Inflammation can also occur in the joint facets from continual irritation which also leads to compressions.

Anyone else get the sensation of ants marching around in other locations of your face? I get it above my upper left lip on occasion and it has a referral pattern to the left ear. Oh, the joys!