Massage Contraindications
During the first three months of pregnancy:
It is generally not considered safe to massage pregnant women, particularly in the first trimester, when the risk of miscarriage is highest. However, a gentle head massage, without oils, is acceptable, and a light gentle, loving, stroke applied to the face and brow will relieve anxiety and release stress.
· High temperature/fever:
The body is already fighting off toxins as indicated by the rise in temperature. A massage would release even more unwelcome toxins into the system.
· Open wounds, cuts and bruising:
Apply only light touch drainage massage around the site, to assist the blood flow towards the heart and encourage healing where bruising is present. Oil may aggravate an open wound. While giving a massage, cover up any open cuts or scratches on your hands with a plaster or other dressing.
· Inflammation:
Avoid massage over an area of inflammation, (which could be due to fatty deposits causing a cyst) and massage will spread the infection. However in case of localized problems, adding a strong base of essential oil to your bath may help you to overcome, suffering with prickly heat and redness. Inflammation would include conditions such as thrombosis and phlebitis (painful clot in vein).
· Blood Clots:
As massage could dislodge and move clot possibly causing a heart attack or stroke.
· Varicose Veins, or History of Thrombosis:
Do not massage over broken or varicose veins as the blood supply is impaired in this area. Massage will increase blood flow and flood the over-worked capillaries and veins, possibly causing coagulation and affecting blood flow to the heart. Professionally trained therapists may effleurage gently when advised by consultant or general practitioner of patient.
· Infectious Skin Diseases:
Bacterial infection, Lymphangitis, Fungal infection, viral infections, Herpes, in these conditions it is always advisable to get consent of your medical practitioner before having a massage. In case of severe skin problems, such as eczema or psoriasis - massage can add to dermal irritation.
· Cancer:
Cancer can spread through the lymphatic system, and because massage increases lymphatic circulation, it may potentially spread the disease as well. Simple, caring touch is fine, but massage strokes that stimulate circulation are not. Always check with a doctor first.
· Broken Bones/Fractures:
Stay away from an area of bones that are mending. A little light massage to the surrounding areas, though, can improve circulation and be quite helpful. When a bone is weakened by a metastasis (spread of the cancer), deep pressure over it may worsen the pain or even cause a fracture.
· Acute Back Pain:
Avoid massage, particularly if the pain shoots down the arms or legs when the back is massaged. Do not apply massage or pressure to the spinal column or other bony processes unless gently passing over the area to reach other areas of the body.
· Other Chronic Conditions and Diseases:
Consult a qualified medical practitioner if you having high blood pressure, diabetes or any heart disease prior to receiving massage therapy.
