Contraindications 

What are the Contraindications to Massage therapy

Massage therapy is non-invasive, relaxing and natural. It is therefore generally considered a safe treatment for most people.

However, there are three types of contraindication:

TOTAL – When massage therapy should not be performed at all.

LOCAL – When massage therapy can be performed but not over the contraindicated areas.

MEDICAL- when massage therapy can only be performed once medical permission has been granted.

Total Contraindications

When you have any of these conditions, please do not book a massage therapy session:

• Fever

• Pregnancy in the 1st Trimester (up to 13 weeks’ duration)

• Contagious diseases, including any cold or flu, no matter how mild it may seem

• Under the influence of drugs or alcohol-including prescription pain medication

• Recent operations or acute injuries

• Neuritis (inflammation of a peripheral nerve or nerves, usually causing pain and loss of function)

• Skin diseases

• Cancer

Local Contraindications

Your therapist can treat but not over any areas affected by:

• Varicose veins

• Undiagnosed lumps or bumps

• Bruising

• Cuts

• Abrasions

• Sunburn

• Undiagnosed pain

• Inflammation, including arthritis

Medical Contraindications

If if you suffer from any of the following conditions, you must get written approval from your physician before any treatment.

• Cardio-vascular conditions (thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension, heart conditions)

• Any condition already being treated by a medical practitioner

• Oedema

• Psoriasis or eczema

• High blood pressure

• Osteoporosis

• Nervous or psychotic conditions

• Heart problems, angina, those with pacemakers

• Epilepsy

• Diabetes

• Bell’s palsy, trapped or pinched nerves

• Gynecological infections

Does a medical contraindication mean that treatment cannot take place?

Not always. In fact, massage therapy can be very therapeutic for many medical conditions. However, in the above cases it is best to have advice from your physician.

If you have further questions or concerns, please contact your physician.