What are the risks of improper neck and shoulder massage?

According to Dr. Phan Minh Duc, Deputy Head of the Department of Traditional Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, massage is a very popular method of relaxation and stress reduction, especially when applied to the neck and shoulder area. However, using the neck twisting technique incorrectly or excessively during massage can cause serious health risks, even leading to long-term damage and life-threatening risks.

To enjoy the benefits of massage, it is necessary to choose the right method.

Dr. Phan Minh Duc said that the cervical spine has a complex structure, including vertebrae, nerves, blood vessels and discs. When twisting or pulling the neck too much, the sudden impact can dislocate the joints between the cervical vertebrae; cause damage to the ligaments or muscles in the neck area; tear or damage the disc, leading to disc herniation. These injuries not only cause prolonged pain but can also affect the mobility of the neck.

In addition, the neck is home to many important nerves and the vertebral artery that supplies blood to the brain. Excessive neck twisting can compress or damage the nerve roots, leading to paralysis or muscle weakness in the shoulder and arm area.

"Excessive neck twisting, with incorrect technique, causes spasm or damage to the vertebral artery, reducing blood flow to the brain, leading to dizziness, loss of balance or even stroke," Dr. Duc noted.

According to Dr. Duc, in some cases, especially for people with a history of osteoporosis, people with a history of cervical spine injury, especially those with cervical spine fixation screws or severe spinal degeneration, strong neck twisting techniques can cause vertebrae fractures, re-injury, and extremely dangerous screw dislodgement. This condition is life-threatening or leads to permanent disability.

Dr. Duc noted that some cases are more likely to be dangerous when performing the neck traction technique: the elderly or people with spinal diseases (spondylosis, osteoporosis); people who have had neck or shoulder injuries; people with blood circulation diseases or cerebrovascular diseases.

To avoid the above risks, when using neck and shoulder massage services, it is important to note: clearly inform the massage technician about any history of injury or surgery in the cervical spine area (if any); choose an experienced and well-trained massage therapist; avoid requiring or allowing neck twisting with too much force or angle.

"If you feel pain or discomfort during the massage, you should immediately stop. People with a history of neck or spine problems should consult a doctor before getting a massage," Dr. Duc recommended.

Neck traction techniques in massage, if performed incorrectly or excessively, pose many serious health risks. Prioritizing safety and choosing the right massage method is essential to protect the body and enjoy the benefits that massage brings. Always be careful and learn carefully before experiencing any therapy related to the neck area.

Dr. Phan Minh Duc

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/massage-co-vai-gay-khong-dung-cach-gay-ra-nhung-nguy-co-gi-185241215202052857.htm