Suggest Treatment For Persistent Headaches And Neck Stiffness

Posted on Wed, 9 Aug 2017

Question: hello,

I had a massage done on Monday afternoon, durning the hour, she did a neck adjustment on me. I have had a headache for 2 days and my neck is kind of stiff, should I be concerned about stroke? I read the stories online of people having strokes after neck adjustments. Thank you for your advice

Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (49 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Get examined and take treatment as advised

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I have gone through your question and understand your concern.
Neck manipulation during massage may lead to muscular spasm or dissection of vertebral artery.
Severe headache and neck pain occurs with dissection.
You can take pain killers with muscle relaxant like aceclofenac or diclofenac with tizanidine or thiocholchicoside.
Visit to a doctor for examination if not relieved.
Local pain reliever ointment can also be taken.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Do get back to me for further information.
Regards
Dr N Kumar
Neurologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Neeraj Kumar (1 hour later)

Ok thanks for your reply, the headache and stiffness are not severe, more mild/moderate. Is there a "safe" period following the adjustment? Or do I just need to monitor symptoms? Is the dissection a rare incident?

Thanks

Answered by Dr. Neeraj Kumar (20 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Monitor for a week

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
You will most probably improve in a week.
The incidence of dissection associated with massage is very rare.
Be assured and contact if symptoms worsens.
Wishing you good health and early recovery.
Regards
Dr N Kumar
Neurologist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng