Vision Disturbances After Neck and Shoulder Massage: What to Know

Q: Vision Disturbances After Neck and Shoulder Massage: What to Know

Hello, Xiao Lai： This phenomenon may be related to transient visual obscurations. <br>You can refer to： https：//bit.ly/2OVs5vk. <br>It might be caused by pressure on the carotid artery during neck and shoulder massage. <br>However, your condition should be temporary and may gradu

Visual disturbances after neck and shoulder massage?

Hello Doctor: At the beginning of last month, I went to a nearby clinic for a shoulder and neck massage (prone position).
After the massage, I suddenly experienced blurred vision in both eyes, but after about an hour, my vision improved to about 80%.
However, I still had light sensitivity.
The day after the massage, I visited a nearby ophthalmology clinic, where they administered dilating drops for a vascular examination.
The doctor explained that the blood vessels were normal, with no signs of rupture or abnormalities.
Since the doctor indicated there were no issues, I believed my body would recover on its own and continued to work normally.
However, after another week, my sensitivity to light had not improved, so I decided to go to a larger hospital for a comprehensive eye examination.
The results showed that the macula, retina, and other areas were normal, and the doctor confirmed that my eye examination results were all normal.
Since there were no issues with my eyes, I then consulted a neurosurgeon, who performed a neck ultrasound and a brain MRI, both of which were also normal.
However, I still experience abnormal sensitivity to light (I can clearly see beams of light entering my eyes from every light source, similar to how I can see a distinct beam of sunlight on a cloudy day).
At night, streetlights appear as distinct beams of light radiating clearly from all directions.
Could you please tell me what this issue might be? Should I schedule another appointment for examination, or is it possible that my eyes could heal on their own? P.S.
I just got new glasses; my prescription is -3.00 for both eyes with -2.25 astigmatism.

Xiao Lai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/05

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello, Xiao Lai: This phenomenon may be related to transient visual obscurations.
You can refer to: https://bit.ly/2OVs5vk.
It might be caused by pressure on the carotid artery during neck and shoulder massage.
However, your condition should be temporary and may gradually improve over time.
Please observe your symptoms.
Try to avoid compressing the carotid artery.
For more information, refer to: https://bit.ly/3b45an1.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is available: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and Wednesday from 2:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
Online responses can only serve as a reference; if necessary, you should seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
I hope to have the opportunity to assist you.
Gao Pilin

Reply Date: 2020/05/05

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for your detailed description of your symptoms following a neck and shoulder massage. It sounds like you have been through a thorough evaluation with both ophthalmology and neurology, which is reassuring. Let's break down your situation and explore potential explanations for your ongoing light sensitivity and visual disturbances.

Possible Causes of Your Symptoms
1. Post-Massage Effects: It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience temporary visual disturbances after a massage, particularly if the neck and shoulder area were manipulated. The cervical spine houses important nerves and blood vessels that supply the head and eyes. If there was any strain or tension released during the massage, it could have temporarily affected the blood flow or nerve function, leading to visual disturbances such as blurriness or light sensitivity.

2. Visual Processing Changes: After experiencing a sudden change in vision, your brain may still be adjusting to the new normal. This can sometimes lead to heightened sensitivity to light, known as photophobia. It’s possible that your visual system is still recalibrating after the massage, especially if there was any strain on the neck or upper back that could have affected your visual pathways.

3. Eye Strain or Fatigue: If you have recently changed your glasses prescription, as you mentioned, it might take some time for your eyes to adapt to the new lenses. Additionally, if you are experiencing any discomfort or strain while using your eyes, this could exacerbate your sensitivity to light.

4. Neurological Factors: Given that you have undergone imaging studies that returned normal results, serious neurological conditions are less likely. However, if there was any minor irritation or inflammation in the nerves that serve the eyes, it could lead to temporary symptoms like those you are experiencing.

Recommendations
1. Follow-Up with an Eye Specialist: Since your symptoms persist, it would be wise to schedule a follow-up appointment with an eye specialist. They can perform additional tests to assess your visual function and ensure there are no underlying issues that may have been missed.

2. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any activities that seem to exacerbate or alleviate them. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider in determining the next steps.

3. Consider Rest and Eye Care: Ensure you are giving your eyes adequate rest, especially if you are spending long periods in front of screens. Implement the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This can help reduce eye strain.

4. Manage Light Sensitivity: Wearing sunglasses or photochromic lenses can help manage your sensitivity to light, especially in bright environments. Additionally, consider using softer lighting at home and avoiding harsh fluorescent lights.

5. Physical Therapy: If you suspect that the massage may have caused some musculoskeletal issues, consulting with a physical therapist could help. They can provide exercises and stretches to alleviate any tension in your neck and shoulders that may be contributing to your symptoms.

Conclusion
While it’s reassuring that your eye and neurological examinations have returned normal results, your ongoing symptoms warrant further investigation. It’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare providers about your concerns and any changes in your symptoms. With appropriate follow-up and care, you should be able to find relief and clarity in your vision.

Wishing you a swift recovery and improved comfort in your daily activities.

Best regards.

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