Full Breakdown
Retinal Tears and Bruising Linked to Use of a Massage Gun on the Eyes in Edinburgh
6/23/2026, 5:57:42 AM
Severe Ocular Injuries After Massage Gun Use on the Eyes
A man in his 20s presented to an eye treatment centre in Edinburgh with a six-day history of increasing floaters and flashing lights in his right eye. Examination revealed multiple retinal tears, extensive retinal bruising, and retinal dialysis in the right eye, and six full-thickness retinal rips with bruising in the left eye. Both eyes were described as being in “terrible shape.”
Patient Profile and Clinical Team
The patient reported mild myopia, no prior ocular or head trauma, and no family history of eye disease. Ophthalmologists Niamh O’Connell and Ashraf Khan conducted the assessment. The case was documented in a BMJ Case Report.
Chronology of Symptoms and Diagnosis
- Six days before presentation: Onset of floaters and flashing lights in the right eye.
- Day of presentation: Patient sought care at the Edinburgh eye centre.
- Examination: Ophthalmic imaging identified retinal tears, bruising, and dialysis.
- Interview: Clinicians inquired about any unusual activities; the patient disclosed recent use of a percussive massage gun on his eyes.
Extent of Retinal Damage
- Right eye: Several retinal tears, extensive bruising, and a retinal break at the anterior junction (retinal dialysis).
- Left eye: Six full-thickness retinal rips and diffuse bruising.
These findings are typically associated with significant ocular trauma.
Clinicians’ Observations and Patient Admission
The ophthalmologists expressed surprise at the severity of the injuries and asked the patient about any untoward actions that could have contributed. The patient admitted using a massage gun equipped with a small, bullet-shaped head attachment to alleviate eye fatigue.
Medical Caution Regarding Use of Percussive Devices Near the Eyes
The clinicians highlighted that retinal dialysis is usually observed after substantial eye injury, implying that percussive devices are not appropriate for ocular application. Their questioning underscores a clinical concern that such devices may cause inadvertent trauma when applied near the eye.
Implications for Public Health and Device Use
This case illustrates a direct link between the misuse of a percussive massage gun and severe retinal injury. Given the popularity of massage guns for muscle relief, the report serves as a cautionary example for both consumers and healthcare providers regarding ocular safety.
Verbatim Quotes
- “untoward” — Clinicians Niamh O’Connell & Ashraf Khan
- “In his right eye, he had multiple retinal tears, widespread retinal bruising, and a condition called retinal dialysis—a retinal break at a junction in the front of the eye—that is usually seen after a significant eye injury.” — BMJ Case Report
- “Specifically, he used a gun with a small head attachment shaped like a bullet.” — BMJ Case Report
- “The man then reluctantly admitted he had been trying to soothe his tired eyes with a percussive massage gun.” — Patient (as reported)
What’s Next
The BMJ Case Report aims to inform ophthalmic practice and raise awareness of potential ocular hazards associated with use of massage devices near the eyes. Further guidance may emerge from professional societies as the incident is reviewed.
