massage contraindications

Although massage treatment is non-invasive, relaxing and suitable for most people, there are three types of contraindications (limitations) which may dictate whether you can have the treatment at all or limit your experience. These are known as:

  • TOTAL CONTRAINDICATION –  when massage should not be performed at all.
  • LOCAL CONTRAINDICATION – when massage can be performed but not over the contraindicated areas.
  • MEDICAL CONTRAINDICATION – when massage can only be performed once medical permission has been granted.

See below for examples of each…

TOTAL CONTRAINDICATIONS:

  • High temperature or fever
  • Any infectious condition and/or disease
  • Skin infection anywhere, inc. scalp infection (nits, lice etc)
  • Serious heart condition or circulatory disorder
  • Recent stroke, haemorrhage or blood clot
  • Recent/unhealed injury, operation or surgery
  • Pregnancy (1st trimester) or possible/suspected pregnancy
  • Under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Diarrhoea and/or vomiting
  • Cancer (active) and receiving treatment with chemotherapy
    and/or radiotherapy

MEDICAL CONTRAINDICATIONS:

  • Cardio-vascular conditions such as: Thrombosis, Phlebitis,
    Hypertension, Hypotension
  • Minor heart conditions, Haemophilia & Medical oedema
  • Recent head or neck injury (including whiplash)
  • Fractures or sprains (legs, arms, hands or feet)
  • Recent operations/surgery
  • Epilepsy, Asthma & Diabetes
  • Osteoporosis, spondylitis, rheumatoid or osteo-arthritis
  • Undiagnosed lumps/bumps/swellings – even if not painful
  • Recent severe undiagnosed headaches or migraine
  • Paranoia, psychosis or schizophrenia
  • Very high or very low blood pressure
  • Cancer (in remission) if still experiencing discomfort or
    side-effects from treatments received
  • Central nervous system disorders, cerebral palsy, multiple
    sclerosis and parkinsonism
  • Pregnancy (2nd or 3rd trimester) or pregnancy related
    disorder – including dizziness and nausea
  • Trapped, pinched or inflamed nerve
  • Kidney infection
  • Slipped or herniated disc

LOCALISED CONTRAINDICATIONS:

  • Minor wounds, bruises, cuts or abrasions
  • Recent (or still sensitive) scar tissue
  • Localised swelling or inflammation
  • Varicose veins
  • Sunburn, hypersensitive, cut, bruised or sensitive skin
  • Menstruation (if uncomfortable or sensitive abdomen)
  • Severe allergies / any allergies