Contraindications
What are the Contraindications to 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 on the affected areas
- MEDICAL, when massage can only be performed once medical permission has been granted
The practitioners at the Center have put the following restrictions in place to protect your health and well-being. Thank you for taking them as seriously as they do..
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
The therapist can massage but not over any areas affected by:
- Varicose veins
- Undiagnosed lumps or bumps
- Pregnancy
- Bruising
- Cuts
- Abrasions
- Sunburn
- Undiagnosed pain
- Inflammation, including arthritis
The therapists at the Center have asked us to let their clients know that if you suffer from any of the following conditions, massage can only take place once it has been approved before your session in writing by your Physician.
- 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
- Cancer
- Nervous or psychotic conditions
- Heart problems, angina, those with pacemakers
- Epilepsy
- Diabetes
- Bell’s palsy, trapped or pinched nerves
- Gynecological infections
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.
If you have further questions or concerns, please contact your physician.