This is a great example of how working on others can help us heal. We've more than likely interacted with those in our current lives before, so when we have the opportunity to clear blockages, whether through detecting and clearing others, or doing our own exercise and meditations, it helps healing happen at not only a physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual level, but residual, connective level as well.
Sometimes asking questions is more for our heads than necessary for the healing. A bunch of years back, there used to be a SFQ Association and we'd have a time when you could work on, and be worked on by other students. Some would rush over to the Level Three or Four students who tended to give more information out after the healing was done than needed. The mini psychic reading story or description of what s/he picked up was quite a draw...and quite the opposite focus of what Master Lin recommends, so I made sure that folks were clear that you just say that you did some wonderful work together today, and as for the rest of the information, 99/100 times it isn't for the person to hear, rather, just for you as you do the healing. There are those times when you ask if they are to be told, and there is a yes, but not often.
So rather than digging deep into a past-life can of worms, acknowledge the sensations, know that it's all just energy and follow the energy to it's root/blockage or ask where the blockages are. Then clear them with love.
Master Lin talks about this more in his level four classes, as well as some wonderful ways to help similar issues caused during pregnancy, and clearing a home.
It is all adaptable.