I have a patient that is 30 years post radiation on the cervical and thoracic region. He has crystalized lung restrictions from this treatment and although this has not been diagnosed in the surrounding musculature, palpation of the traps and upper scapular muscles feel nearly like bone. There is a clear distinction in the tissue that has been damaged by the radiation. This significantly limits his cervical and thoracic ROM. Are there any contraindications to needling over these muscles? Has anyone else needled this type of tissue?
