Contraindications
What are the contraindications of massage treatment?
Massage treatment 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 should not be performed at all.
- LOCAL, when massage can be performed but not over the contraindicated areas.
- MEDICAL, when massage can only be performed once medical permission has been granted. The following restrictions are in place to protect your health and well-being. Thank you for taking them as seriously as we do.
Total Contraindications
When you have any of these conditions, please do not book a massage:
- Fever
- 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
- Skin diseases
Local Contraindications
The therapist can massage but not over any areas affected by:
- Varicose veins
- Undiagnosed lumps or bumps
- Pregnancy- Massage over the belly during the first trimester is discouraged but massage during 2nd and 3rd trimesters is very supportive, relaxing and comforting.
- Bruising
- Cuts
- Abrasions
- Sunburn
- Undiagnosed pain
- Inflammation, including arthritis
Medical Contraindications
If you suffer from any of the following conditions, massage can take place once it has been approved by your medical practitioner.
- Advanced Cardio-vascular conditions (thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension, heart conditions)
- Any condition already being treated by a medical practitioner
- Lymphedema
- Advanced/degenerative Osteoporosis
- Epilepsy
- Bell’s palsy, trapped or pinched nerves
Does a contraindication mean that treatment cannot take place?
Not always. In fact, massage can be very therapeutic for many medical conditions. However, in the above cases it is best to have advice from your physician. Massage therapists, unless they are also qualified doctors, may not, under law, attempt to diagnose a condition.