Contraindications and Precautions with Massage Therapy

There are contraindications for Massage, times when it is not appropriate. Massage 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; and 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 I do.

Total

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

* Fever* Contagious or infectious 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 accute injuries* Neuritis* Skin diseases

Local

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

Contraindications: 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

Reflexology Contraindications

People with recent or healing fractures, unhealed wounds or active gout affecting the foot should avoid reflexology. If you have osteoarthritis affecting the ankle or foot or severe circulation problems in the legs or feet, seek medical consultation before starting reflexology.

Some reflexology books list conditions that theoretically may be negatively affected by this therapy, although scientific information is limited. Examples include diabetes, heart disease or the presence of a pacemaker, unstable blood pressure, cancer, active infections, past episodes of fainting (syncope), mental illness, gallstones or kidney stones. Caution is advised in pregnant women, based on reports that rigorous stimulation of the feet may cause contractions of the uterus.

Reflexology should not delay diagnosis or treatment with conventional techniques or therapies.

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.

Consider Energy Healing

When massage is contraindicated, consider Energy Healing. It is often beneficial when massage is not. With its' light, subtle touch this healing can be great when touch is painful or not advisable. Polarity Therapy energy work was developed for "last hope" cases and the treatments prove quite helpful. Reiki and Intuitive Healing with light touch and with the work in your aura could also be a perfect fit.

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