Question
QUESTION: I got a neck massage about a year ago that caused both the
lymph nodes in my neck to swell.  Initially, I thought it
was from an infection because I had just shaved. Is it
possible the vigorous massage of my lymph nodes caused them
to swell and remain swollen?

ANSWER: Steve,
It is possible that a vigorous massage brought it to the surface, although if you are truly having cervical lymph node enlargement, then it is most likely due to fighting off foreign cells in the body.  An infection or some sort of immune system response is what you are probably dealing with.
The fact that this is going on 1 year later does not bode well for your immune system.  I would highly suggest that you have your immune system evaluated and then go from there.

Yours in Best Health,
Dr Robert Arnone
St Louis, MO

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Doctor,

Thank you for responding to my question.  

Actually, I've had this problem since my teens.  The areas
at the base of my jaw just below my ears would feel
swollen--a dull pressure feeling which descends down each
side of the neck and up behind the ear.  Doctors then said
it was normal.  This is what I feel now.  I don't feel
anything like a bean or actual node as has been described
by other posts.  

The reason this bothers me now is that I had started a
regimen of echinacea and vitamin c and creatine which had
stopped it for a glorious 6 months.  I think that's the
longest period I had gone without it since age 15.  
Anyway, I would greatly appreciate it if you could please
let me know what specific tests I should go
for and/or what you think I can do about this.

Thanks again,

Steve

Answer
Steve,
It sounds like the area in question is where your cervical spine bones reside.  Right under your earlobe is where the side of your first cervical vertebra or Atlas is situated.  From that point downwards until you reach the base of your neck or start of your upper back, are the cervical bones.
I would highly recommend getting an evaluation form an Upper Cervical Specific Doctor to find out if you have a subluxation that may be causing your trouble.
If you would like assistance in locating one, simply reply with your location.
Yours in Best Health,
Dr Robert Arnone
Upper Cervical Specific Doctor
"Brainstem Specialist"
711 Old Ballas Road
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
(314)995-5719