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Spinal accessory neuropathy associated with deep tissue massage: a case report
Ibrahim A Aksoy1, Sara L Schrader, Muna S Ali
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic Arizona, 13400 E. Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA. ibo@mayo.edu
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|November 6, 2009
Summary
Spinal accessory neuropathy (SAN) can impair arm mobility and cause pain. This case highlights SAN resulting from deep tissue massage, leading to trapezius muscle weakness and scapular winging.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Anatomy
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Spinal accessory neuropathy (SAN) is a condition affecting arm mobility and causing pain.
- The spinal accessory nerve is vulnerable to injury during neck surgeries like dissections or biopsies.
- Traumatic injuries can also lead to SAN, impacting the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles.
Observation:
- This report details a rare case of SAN.
- The neuropathy was associated with deep tissue massage.
- Clinical presentation included scapular winging and a droopy shoulder.
Findings:
- Deep tissue massage can be a cause of spinal accessory neuropathy.
- Weakness of the trapezius muscle is a primary consequence of SAN.
- Impaired scapular stability results from trapezius muscle dysfunction.
Implications:
- Recognizing non-surgical causes of SAN is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Understanding the link between massage and SAN can inform patient care and prevention strategies.
- This case underscores the importance of careful technique in manual therapies to avoid nerve injury.
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