There are times when massage therapy is not indicated or has to be modified to suit the situation
General Contraindications
For certain medical conditions massage therapy is generally contraindicated (that is, massage should be avoided at this time). These include:
- systemic contagious or infectious diseases (including the common cold) - acute conditions requiring first aid or medical attention - severe unstable hypertension - significant fever
Local Contraindications
For the following conditions massage therapy is locally contraindicated (affected areas are to be avoided):
- Acute flare-up of inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis - Deep vein thrombosis - aneurism - frostbite - local contagious or irritable skin conditions - open sores or wounds - recent surgery - recent burn - varicosities - malignancy
(in some of these cases contraindications may be general, depending on location and severity)
Massage therapy does not constitute medical treatment and is not a substitute for a medical examination or diagnosis. If you are dealing with a serious health condition check with your health care provider before seeking massage therapy and make sure you inform your massage practitioner of any health conditions that may affect the work.
