What are contra-indications and what do        they mean in massage therapy?

 

        In massage therapy, contra-indications are restrictions on what kind of massage treatments can be offered to a         client based on medical factors.

 

Generally, if you’re feeling sick or not well, massage therapy may actually make you feel worse than you already are; that’s why we recommend that you do not book a session while you’re sick.  If you have any sort of medical conditions, then there may be restrictions on your massage therapy treatments.

That’s why it’s important for every client ask us about contra-indications to massage before booking an appointment with us

 

What are the contra-indications 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 contra-indication:

 

• 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 Contra-indications

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 Contra-indications

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

 

Medical Contra-indications

 

• 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 contra-indication 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.