Can Massage Cause Vertigo? (Dizziness after Massage)

Many individuals wonder, “Can massage cause vertigo?” as they seek to understand potential side effects of massage therapy. Massage therapy has been used for centuries to promote relaxation, relieve muscle tension, and improve overall well-being. However, while massages have numerous benefits, some individuals may experience unexpected side effects, including dizziness and vertigo.

In this article, we will explore the potential link between massage and vertigo, along with other related contraindications. Understanding these factors will help both massage therapists and clients make informed decisions about the suitability of massage treatments.

Can massage cause vertigo?

Yes massage can definitely cause vertigo but it depends on a lot of factors, whether you have a underlying medical condition or you took the massage for too long.
Understanding the potential link between massage and vertigo, and the factors that can contribute to dizziness after a massage session.
Recognizing that feeling dizzy after a massage is not uncommon and can be related to the release of muscle tension or changes in body position.
Being aware that certain massage techniques, especially those involving forceful neck manipulation, can trigger vertigo in susceptible individuals.
Knowing the importance of communicating any history of vertigo or dizziness to the massage therapist before the session to ensure a tailored and safe treatment plan.
Recognizing the importance of adhering to proper safety protocols and precautions during a massage to minimize the risk of adverse reactions, especially for clients prone to vertigo or related conditions.

Understanding What is Vertigo?

Vertigo is a type of dizziness characterized by a sensation of spinning or imbalance. It is often caused by issues in the inner ear or the vestibular system, which plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and spatial orientation. Common symptoms of vertigo include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and a loss of balance. So, can massage cause vertigo? It depends.

Symptoms of Vertigo

Sensation of spinning or whirling
Feeling unsteady or off-balance
Nausea and vomiting
Sweating
Abnormal eye movements (nystagmus)
Headache
Hearing loss or ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Loss of coordination
Difficulty walking or standing
Anxiety or panic during episodes

Causes of Vertigo

Inner ear disorders
Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV)
Meniere’s disease
Vestibular neuritis
Labyrinthitis
Migraine-associated vertigo
Head or neck injuries
Changes in head position
Certain medications
Neurological conditions
Sometimes massage

The Link between Massage and Vertigo

Can massage make you sick or cause vertigo? Can massage cause vertigo with certain medical conditions? While massage is generally safe, some people have reported feeling dizzy or experiencing vertigo after a session. Here are certain circumstances in which it may trigger vertigo or worsen existing conditions:

Neck Manipulation: Certain massage techniques, particularly those involving forceful neck manipulation, can put pressure on the cervical spine and surrounding structures. This pressure may lead to disturbances in the vestibular system, potentially causing vertigo.
Trigger Point Massage: Trigger point massage aims to relieve muscle knots or trigger points, which can cause referred pain and discomfort. However, the release of trigger points in certain areas, especially around the neck and shoulders, may trigger dizziness in susceptible individuals. So, can massage cause vertigo in this case? Yes!
Positional Changes: During a massage session, clients may be required to change positions frequently. Quick positional changes, especially from a lying to a sitting or standing position, can disrupt the inner ear’s balance and cause temporary dizziness. This means massage can cause vertigo sometimes.

Some people also experience flu-like symptoms after a massage.

Massage Contraindications for Vertigo

Massage therapists should be aware of the following contraindications to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients:

Existing Vertigo or Dizziness: Individuals who have a history of vertigo or dizziness should inform their massage therapist before the session. The therapist can then adjust the treatment plan accordingly, avoiding techniques that may exacerbate the condition.
Recent Head or Neck Injuries: Clients recovering from head or neck injuries should avoid massages until fully healed, as massage therapy may interfere with the healing process and worsen symptoms.
Meniere’s Disease: Meniere’s disease is a condition of the inner ear that causes episodes of vertigo, hearing loss, and ringing in the ears. Massage should be avoided for individuals with this condition. So, can massage cause vertigo to person suffering from meniere’s disease? Yeah!
BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo): BPPV is a common form of vertigo caused by changes in head position. Clients with BPPV should avoid massages that involve quick positional changes.

Dizziness After a Massage: When to Seek Medical Attention

Feeling dizzy or nauseous after a massage is not uncommon, especially if it’s your first massage or if you’re experiencing muscle tension release. However, if these symptoms persist or worsen over time, it’s essential to seek medical attention. Dizziness that lasts for more than a few hours or is accompanied by severe headaches, vision changes, or difficulty speaking may indicate a more serious underlying issue. So, can massage cause vertigo? Yes if you have some underlying condition or this is your first time.

Preventive Measures for Massage Therapists

Massage therapists can take several precautions to minimize the risk of causing vertigo or exacerbating dizziness in their clients:

Client Health Assessment: Prior to the massage, therapists should conduct a thorough health assessment, including a discussion of the client’s medical history and any existing conditions. Therapist is also supposed to ask if the client has ever experience vertigo or dizziness after massage?
Avoiding Forceful Techniques: When working on the neck and shoulders, therapists should use gentle, controlled techniques to minimize the risk of causing dizziness.
Communication: Encouraging open communication with clients is crucial. Clients should be urged to report any discomfort or dizziness during the session, allowing therapists to make immediate adjustments. You can simply ask the therapist can massage cause vertigo? He may tell you that nobody has ever experienced it. If you are done with the massage, and you are experiencing vertigo afterwards, instead of finding the answer on internet, you can directly call your therapist and ask So, can massage cause vertigo?

Reflexology and Dizziness

Reflexology is a complementary therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears. While reflexology is generally safe and beneficial, some individuals may experience dizziness or lightheadedness during or after a session. Similar to massage, reflexology’s effects on the body’s energy pathways may trigger these sensations in sensitive individuals.

Overall, can massage cause vertigo? As you know it depends. While massage therapy and reflexology have numerous benefits, it is essential to be mindful of potential contraindications, especially when dealing with clients prone to vertigo or dizziness. By following proper safety protocols, massage therapists can ensure a positive and safe experience for their clients, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions. Clients, too, should be proactive in communicating their health concerns to their therapists, allowing for tailored treatments that cater to their unique needs and conditions.

People Also Read:

FAQs

Why did I feel dizzy after a massage?

Feeling dizzy after a massage is not uncommon and can be attributed to several factors. One possible reason is the release of muscle tension during the massage. When tight muscles are worked on, the body may respond by releasing built-up toxins, which can temporarily make you feel lightheaded or nauseous. Another reason could be the change in body position during the massage.

If you go from lying down to sitting or standing too quickly, it can affect your blood pressure and inner ear, leading to a feeling of dizziness. In some cases, specific massage techniques, particularly those involving forceful neck manipulation, can put pressure on the cervical spine, triggering dizziness in susceptible individuals. If you experience persistent or severe dizziness after a massage, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying health issues.

Can a massage cause dizziness?

Yes, a massage can cause dizziness in some individuals, although it is relatively rare. As mentioned earlier, the release of muscle tension and toxins during a massage, as well as changes in body position, can lead to temporary dizziness or lightheadedness. In addition, certain massage techniques that involve manipulating the neck and shoulders can put pressure on the cervical spine and inner ear, potentially triggering vertigo or dizziness. It is essential to communicate any history of vertigo or dizziness to your massage therapist before the session, so they can tailor the treatment plan accordingly and avoid techniques that may exacerbate the condition.

Can tight neck muscles cause vertigo?

Yes, tight neck muscles can contribute to vertigo. The neck plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and spatial orientation, and when neck muscles are tense or knotted, they can affect the vestibular system, which is responsible for balance. Trigger points in the neck and shoulder area can refer pain and discomfort to other parts of the body, including the head and ears, leading to dizziness or vertigo-like sensations. It’s essential to address tight neck muscles through proper stretching, massage, or other therapies to relieve tension and reduce the risk of vertigo episodes.

What body parts should not be massaged?

While massage therapy is generally safe and beneficial, there are specific body parts that should be avoided or treated with caution during a massage:

Bony Prominences: Areas with bony prominences, such as the spine, knees, elbows, and ankles, should be treated with care. Applying too much pressure directly to these areas can lead to discomfort and potential injury.
Inflamed or Injured Tissues: Massaging inflamed or injured tissues can exacerbate the condition and delay healing. It is best to let the affected areas heal before receiving a massage.
Open Wounds or Skin Infections: Avoid massaging over open wounds or skin infections to prevent the risk of infection or further irritation.
Varicose Veins: Massaging directly over varicose veins can worsen the condition and increase the risk of blood clots. It’s best to avoid these areas or use gentle techniques around them.
Sensitive Areas: Some individuals may have sensitive areas due to medical conditions or personal preferences. Always communicate with your massage therapist about any areas you’d like them to avoid or approach with caution.

By being mindful of these precautions, massage therapists can ensure a safe and effective massage session for their clients, promoting relaxation and overall well-being without any adverse effects.

Related: