Shingles After Massage: A Possible Connection?

Question
I recently had a deep tissue massage focused on my lower back and hip, left side. About a week later I developed a burning, itchy rash over the specific area that was massaged.  The rash spread to the centre of my spine and across the hip.  My doctor diagnosed shingles.  I do believe the massage contributed to activating the zoster virus.  Have you heard of this?

Answer
Hi Elnore,

I can't say I have ever heard of a massage activating shingles before, though I do know that a massage can spread anything on the skin to other places around the body.  It is possible you had an invisible outbreak (I think its called shedding) forming at the time of the massage and the massage spread it all around to the areas where you got massaged.  Its also possible the therapist either had contact with the virus or had it themselves and didn't know it when you got your massage.

Anyone who ever had chicken pox has it in a dormant form, so it is hard to prevent.  I would make sure the therapist knows about your reaction too, as other clients may have been exposed and they may need to make some calls, discard sheets, etc.

Best wishes!
Mikey