Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 26, 2026

Author Spotlight: Exploring the Potential of Massage Therapy in Cerebral Palsy Using Animal Models
Published on: August 11, 2023
Vertebral Artery Dissection Probably Caused by Massage: A Case Report
Wei-Jian Chen1, Hong-Yu Qiao2, Gui-Ting Fang1
1Medical Imaging Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University, Guangzhou 510630, China.
Massage therapy, while common, may pose risks. A case study reveals vertebral artery dissection (VAD) after massage, leading to cardiac arrest and paralysis, highlighting potential dangers.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
- Integrative Health
Background:
- Massage therapy is increasingly utilized as a complementary healthcare approach.
- Potential adverse events associated with manual therapies require thorough investigation.
Observation:
- A patient developed sudden cardiac arrest and paralysis following a massage session.
- Diagnostic evaluation indicated vertebral artery dissection (VAD).
Findings:
- The vertebral artery dissection (VAD) was strongly suspected to be iatrogenically induced by the massage.
- Prompt medical intervention with anticoagulation and antiplatelet therapy was initiated.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential risks of massage, particularly concerning cervical manipulation and vascular structures.
- Healthcare providers should counsel patients on the potential complications of massage therapy.
- Further research is warranted to establish definitive causal links and safety guidelines.
Related Concept Videos
Muscles of the Vertebral Column
Superficial Layer:
The superficial layer consists primarily of the splenius muscles, which include the splenius capitis and splenius cervicis. These muscles are mainly responsible for the head and cervical spine movements, including extension, rotation, and lateral bending. The splenius capitis...
Articulations of the Vertebral Column
Vertebral Column: Regions and Curvature
Regions of the Vertebral Column
In an adult, the spine is subdivided into five regions: the cervical, the thoracic, the lumbar, the sacral, and the coccygeal region. The spine initially develops as a series of 33 vertebrae; after 20 years of age, the nine bones in the sacral region, five sacral, and four coccygeal bones fuse to form...
Data Reporting and Recording
Types of Reports I: Hands-off Report
Following are the key components and categories of hand-off reports:
Purpose and Process:
Types of Reports II: Incident or Occurrence Report
Purposes:
In the healthcare industry, reports play a crucial role in documenting incidents within an agency. The primary objective of these reports is to ensure patient safety, uphold the...

