Abstract
Background and Purpose There are few reports in the literature of adverse effects resulting from massage therapy (MT) and no reports of brachial plexus injury (BPI) associated with MT. This case report describes an uncommon case of BPI that developed after a session of MT and reviews previously published reports of peripheral nerve injury following MT.
Case Description A 58-year-old Asian woman developed sudden unilateral paralysis of her left shoulder girdle after a session of MT. A diagnosis of acute BPI was suspected due to her recent history and the results of several examinations. The results of electrodiagnostic studies indicated a possible location for the lesion and ultimately led to a different diagnosis.
Outcomes The patient regularly participated in a twice-weekly rehabilitation program targeting the left shoulder. The rehabilitation program included supervised passive range of motion, strengthening, and stretching exercises as well as a home exercise program. A 12-month follow-up showed the patient had achieved gradual recovery of shoulder strength, resolution of limitations of range of motion, and relief of shoulder pain.
Discussion This is believed to be the first report of BPI associated with MT. This case report serves as a reminder to massage therapists and physical therapists that MT of the neck should be carefully performed to avoid injury. Further studies will help design safer and more effective MT for the future.
Footnotes
Dr C-Y Chang, Dr Chiang, and Dr Chen provided concept/idea/study design. Dr C-Y Chang and Dr Chiang provided writing. Dr Chan and Dr Wu provided data analysis. Dr C-Y Chang, Dr Chan, Dr Wu, Dr Chen, and Dr S-T Chang provided consultation (including review of the manuscript before submission).
- Received October 25, 2013.
- Accepted August 28, 2014.
