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Help! Bruised head and burning scalp after acupuncture and deep head massage.

4 replies

Bv32 · 29/04/2023 12:49

I recently went for acupuncture (two days ago) to help with stress and the start of some anxiety. The Dr in the shop said I needed a full body accupunture- including forehead (this needle had an electric battery clamped to it) and scalp - he then said I needed a head massage and cupping.

I thought the head massage would be gentle but it was a deep tissue massage and hair tugging - didnt hurt on the day but I felt extremely tender and bruised the next day. Slept really well the day I had the treatment. However, last night I did not sleep at all, as I lay down the brusing really hurt and my scalp felt like it was on fire. I didn't sleep at all, wasn't sure what to do with myself- it made me even more anxious.

Made me think what if there is a bleed from.the needles as he said it can sometimes leave a bruise where blood is under the skin. What if I have caught an infection from the needles? What if his massage me with permanent damage.

I phoned him this morning and he said it is normal. I am still struggling with the pain and discomfort making me more worried. He seems to think it will go in a few days....what shall I do next? Should I go to A&E? I feel like this is all my fault...but it was my first time ever visiting an acupuncture centre. He had fanatic reviews.

Anyone been through something similar? Thanks in advance.

OP posts:
Heartsnrainbows · 29/04/2023 13:29

Acupuncture always leaves you feeling a bit bruised as does any type of deep massage. I'd never touch cupping though, that's right up there with leeches to me.

Bv32 · 29/04/2023 13:33

Thanks @heartsnrainbows just don't know what to do with burning scalp. Am I ok to take painkillers? It just feels like my head is inflamed and on fire 🙁 It has put me off ever doing accupunture and head massages again. Weirdly I haven't had any issues with the cupping for my neck, shoulders and upper back. They feel fine. I think I am panicking as it is the head area. I can't focus on anything at the moment.

OP posts:
Heartsnrainbows · 29/04/2023 14:25

Yeah it's fine to take painkillers. Ibuprofen are best. As I understand it, it works by stimulating blood flow to the area and breaking down tension in the muscles.

Bv32 · 01/05/2023 17:47

Thanks. I just don't feel good at all. The burning feeling and bruise is debilitating and making me think will I ever recover? It has been 5 days now :(

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