Arnica-Based Massage Oil and Tinnitus

[Josh59]

Hello,

I recently experienced muscle contractions in the back of my neck, so I massaged my neck and upper back using Arnica-based massage oil (Arnica montana flower, as shown in the attached photo).

A few minutes after the massage, I noticed an increase in my tinnitus.

Could there be a connection with the Arnica? I haven't been able to find any information indicating whether Arnica oil is ototoxic or capable of aggravating tinnitus.

What is your opinion on this?

 

[Roy E]

I once applied a Lidocaine patch to the back of my neck, and it caused a spike in my tinnitus. I have read articles suggesting that tinnitus may originate where the brain stem meets the spine. This makes me wonder if interfering with that area could trigger a spike, possibly by overstimulating the vagus nerve.

I tried the Lidocaine patch because I had read that Lidocaine injections can temporarily block tinnitus for some people.