1. Neck (Cervical Spine Area)
Why be careful?
The neck contains major arteries—like the carotid artery—and vital nerves that connect to the brain and body. Rough pressure or sudden twisting can lead to torn arteries or even stroke.
Case Example:
A 65-year-old woman went for a massage to ease neck stiffness. The therapist pressed too hard and twisted her neck quickly. Later, she felt dizzy and fainted. Doctors found a torn artery in her neck that caused a blood clot to block blood flow to her brain.
✅ Okay to massage if:
Mild stiffness from sitting too long
Minor muscle tension
🚫 Avoid if:
You feel dizzy or lightheaded
You have numbness or shooting pain down your shoulder or arm
You have severe neck pain or limited movement
2. Lower Back
Why be careful?
The lower back contains spinal discs and major nerves. Intense pressure can worsen disc herniation or irritate the sciatic nerve.
Case Example:
A 30-year-old man had mild back pain after lifting something heavy. The massage therapist applied strong pressure on his lower back, which caused a herniated disc pressing on his nerve—he eventually needed surgery.
✅ Okay to massage if:
You have mild muscle soreness or tension
🚫 Avoid if:
The pain radiates to your legs or feet
You feel numbness or weakness in your legs
You had a recent back injury or trauma
3. Chest
Why be careful?
The chest protects vital organs like the heart and lungs. Deep pressure can affect breathing and heart rhythm.
Case Example:
A 40-year-old woman got a chest massage for relaxation. During the session, she felt chest pain and shortness of breath. The therapist brushed it off—but she ended up in the hospital with a heart rhythm problem caused by excessive pressure.
✅ Okay to massage if:
You have mild chest muscle tightness from exercise or stress
🚫 Avoid if:
Chest pain radiates to the jaw or arm
You have difficulty breathing
4. Abdomen
Why be careful?
The abdomen houses internal organs like the liver, kidneys, and stomach. Strong or misplaced pressure can cause internal injury.
Case Example:
A 50-year-old man had bloating and got an abdominal massage. Afterward, he developed severe abdominal pain—doctors discovered he had appendicitis and needed emergency surgery.
✅ Okay to massage if:
You have mild bloating or abdominal tightness
🚫 Avoid if:
You have sudden, severe abdominal pain
You notice swelling or tenderness
You have diarrhea with abdominal pain
5. Back of the Knee
Why be careful?
This area contains major blood vessels and nerves. Pressing too hard can trigger blood clots or restrict circulation.
Case Example:
A 45-year-old woman had sore leg muscles and received strong pressure behind her knees. The result? A blood clot formed, blocking blood flow—she required surgical treatment.
✅ Okay to massage if:
You have mild general muscle soreness
🚫 Avoid if:
Your leg is swollen, red, or warm
You have deep, persistent knee pain
Interesting Statistics
According to the latest medical association report:
30% of people who get massages from unlicensed therapists experience minor injuries such as bruising or muscle inflammation.
10% suffer severe complications like blood clots, herniated discs, or even fractures.
Morru’s Advice
If you plan to get a massage, always choose a licensed therapist from a trusted clinic. Avoid massages when you have sharp pain, numbness, or weakness. And most importantly—if something feels off, don’t wait. See a doctor immediately.
Your health is yours—take good care of it. 😊
Written by Dr. Matee Phakawech
Medical License Number 41601