Xiamen man survives stroke caused by neck massage

A 40-year-old man in Xiamen, Fujian Province, nearly died after suffering a stroke during a neck massage intended to relieve stiffness. The patient experienced a sudden, intense headache and loss of consciousness during the procedure.

Medical imaging revealed carotid artery dissection accompanied by a cerebral thrombosis. Doctors successfully performed a mechanical thrombectomy to restore blood flow to the blocked vessels.

Medical professionals warn that improper neck massage, involving sudden twisting or excessive stretching, can damage the carotid artery wall. This damage can lead to arterial dissection and the formation of blood clots, which may travel to the brain and cause an ischemic stroke. Doctors emphasize that the first 4.5 hours after symptom onset is the ‘golden window’ for effective treatment to minimize brain damage and the risk of disability or death.