Embolic stroke associated with handheld electric neck massager: A case report and literature review

Abstract

Background

Handheld neck massagers pose a risk for thromboembolic stroke, a topic that has not been thoroughly explored in the literature.

Case description and literature review

We present a case of acute ischemic stroke in a 79-year-old male patient who experienced left upper extremity weakness after using a handheld neck massager. Imaging revealed a ruptured stenotic atherosclerotic plaque at the right internal carotid artery bulb and acute infarcts in the right middle cerebral artery vascular territory. A literature review identified other cases involving handheld massage devices.

Conclusions

Neck massager use can contribute to thromboembolic stroke in rare cases when atherosclerotic plaque is present. Recognizing this risk is important for understanding stroke etiology.