Massage gun use on eyes linked to retinal tears, doctors say

Right: Photo of a percussive massage gun with a small head attachment applied to the eyes in this patient. Left: Pseudo-colour wide-field fundus photograph of the right eye showing normal-appearing nerve and macula, and a retinal dialysis in the superior temporal periphery with adjacent retinal commotio (white arrow outline). Photos courtesy of BMJ Case Reports

A young man developed multiple retinal tears and a rare sight-threatening retinal injury after repeatedly using a percussive massage gun on and around his eyes, according to a case report published in BMJ Case Reports.

Researchers said the patient, a student in his 20s, sought medical attention after experiencing floaters and occasional flashing lights in his right eye for nearly a week. Initial examination revealed multiple retinal tears, retinal bruising and retinal dialysis which is a rare type of retinal break often associated with significant eye trauma.

The man had no history of eye disease, surgery or major risk factors for retinal problems. After doctors revisited his medical history, he disclosed that he had been using a commercially purchased massage gun directly on and around both eyes for several minutes at a time each week over a three-month period to relieve feelings of tiredness.

Doctors treated the retinal tears with laser therapy and used barrier laser treatment to stabilize the retinal dialysis. Six months later, his condition remained stable and his vision was preserved.

The authors said this is the first reported case linking massage gun use to both bilateral retinal tears and retinal dialysis. While reports of eye injuries related to massage guns remain uncommon, previous cases have included cataracts, glaucoma and retinal detachment.

The researchers warned that high-frequency percussive massage devices can cause serious eye injuries when used improperly. They also emphasized the importance of thorough patient questioning and called for clearer warnings from manufacturers about avoiding use directly on the eyes.