The Hidden Dangers of Neck Massage: A Cautionary Tale of Brain Stem Infarction

According to reports, the wife massaged her husband's shoulder and neck with increasing force, as he requested her to apply more pressure. About half an hour later, the husband experienced a sudden and severe dizzy spell, which he initially attributed to fatigue. However, the next day, his condition worsened, with symptoms including dizziness, unsteady gait, and a feeling of walking on cotton. His wife immediately called for emergency assistance, and he was rushed to the hospital.

Upon examination, the neurologist discovered that the patient had suffered a right-sided brain stem infarction, a condition characterized by the death of brain tissue due to a lack of blood supply. Further tests revealed that the patient had developed a right-sided vertebral artery dissection, which had led to the formation of a blood clot that blocked the blood vessel supplying the brain stem. Medical experts explain that the husband's vertebral artery was compressed by external force, resulting in intimal tearing, and blood seeped into the vascular wall, forming a hematoma. This led to both vascular stenosis and thrombosis, and the detached thrombus directly blocked the blood vessels supplying the cerebellum, causing a cerebellar infarction.

Fortunately, timely medical intervention helped to restore blood flow to the affected area, and the patient was able to recover mobility within a week. However, the incident serves as a warning to individuals who engage in neck massages, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions or a history of vascular disease. Doctors caution that certain individuals, such as those with "fragile" blood vessels, people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or high blood sugar, and those who insist on intense massage, are at a higher risk of suffering from brain stem infarction or other vascular complications due to neck massage. They emphasize the importance of adopting a "three no's" principle when it comes to neck massage: no excessive force, no sudden movements, and no prolonged massage.

To mitigate these risks, individuals with fragile blood vessels should avoid intense massage and opt for gentle, soothing techniques instead. Those with "three highs" should work closely with their healthcare providers to manage their conditions and reduce their risk of cerebellar infarction. Meanwhile, those who enjoy aggressive massage should be aware of their body's limits and avoid applying excessive force, which can cause damage to blood vessels. Additionally, excessive use of massage chairs, sudden head turns, bungee jumping, and even forceful sneezing can all potentially trigger blood vessel rupture.

To prevent cerebellar infarction, it is crucial to exercise caution when administering massage, particularly in the neck and head areas. The massage should be gentle, avoiding excessive force that may cause injury to the blood vessels and nerves in the neck. Special attention should be paid to areas with prominent bones, such as the cervical spine's spinous processes, where heavy pressure should be avoided. Individuals with pre-existing cervical spine problems, such as herniated discs, should consult their doctors before undergoing massage. Additionally, if the massage causes increased pain, dizziness, or numbness, it is essential to stop immediately and seek medical attention. If possible, seeking the expertise of a professional massage therapist is recommended. For self-massage at home, it is advised to use the palm of the hand to gently knead the muscles, rather than applying excessive force. By taking these precautions, individuals can minimize the risk of cerebellar infarction and ensure a safe and beneficial massage experience.