Massage therapy in general is a very safe, effective and enjoyable therapeutic modality. But there are times when it is not safe for a person to receive massage. Massage and other forms of bodywork should be avoided when certain risk factors are present, or when the potential risk from massage outweighs the benefit.

Here’s a quick list of categories of the most common massage contraindications:

1. Infection. This includes small infected areas to systemic infections. Infections may or may not have signs such as fever or redness.
2. Contagious conditions which can have various causes, from viral to parasitic. These conditions put the therapist and other clients at risk.
3. Inflammation from injury or infection.
4. Acute medical conditions such as recent injuries, treatments or surgical procedures.
5. Certain medications can be a contraindication for massage or require special precautions.
6. Under the influence of alcohol or drugs, especially if sensation or cognition are affected.
7. Current medical treatments for certain conditions such as chronic conditions.
8. Skin conditions that could be made worse by massage, for example burns, blisters, and traumatic injuries that affect the superficial tissues.
9. High risk conditions such as severe osteoporosis, unstable blood clots, and uncontrolled HT increase the client’s risk of suffering an injury from massage.
10. Cancer may be a contraindication. Massage therapists should get medical clearance from the client’s oncologist before proceeding.

What should I do if I have these conditions?

If you suffer from any of these conditions, sometimes your massage therapist will ask you to talk to your GP before booking a massage session. Remember that your medical condition must be stable first, and you have to tell your therapist all your symptoms; this way your massage therapist will create a personalised massage treatment according to your needs because he is always focused in making you feel better.

In addition, before starting your massage treatment let your therapist know who was in charge of diagnosing your conditions, for example: your GP, physiotherapist, osteopath, sports therapist, acupuncturist or yourself.

Why is my medical history important when having a massage?

As I mentioned before, massage can be contraindicated in some cases, for this reason, you need to let your therapist know everything about your health such as past and present medical problems; this can determinate if the treatment is suitable for you. Also, this information allows the therapist to make some changes to the technique or create a bespoke treatment for you. For example, areas with burns, wounds, staples or pins will be avoided.

Other cautions that therapists have is when you present any kind of allergy. Some people have skin allergies (to creams, oils, cleansers or disinfectants) or can be allergic to some materials like clothes in sheets or even gloves. In these cases the therapist will use different products according to your needs or there are people who prefer to bring their own products.

It doesn’t matter which condition or special need you have, you always will be treated better at AK Massage and Beauty. Your health and comfort are our priorities.