Contraindications to Massage
Massage is safe for most healthy people. However, if the massage recipient has any of the following general or
localized conditions, or any other medical condition,
please consult with a doctor before doing massage on yourself or others.
For many of these localized problems, such as scraps, cuts, bruises, sunburn, or hernias, massage may be okay if those
localized problem areas are avoided during the massage.
These guidelines are for massage in general and are not targeted to any specific type of massage or specific massaging tool.
Not all medical conditions may be listed here.
- Abrasions
- Bruises
- Easy bruising. People who have medical conditons that lead to easy bruising.
- Cuts
- Sunburn
- Skin problems or diseases
- Varicose veins
- Undiagnosed lumps or bumps
- Undiagnosed pain
- Localized inflammation. Including arthritis and Rheumatism
- Fever
- Contagious diseases, including any cold or flu
- Recent operations or acute injuries that are not healed
- Broken bones
- Hernia
- Pregnancy
- Neuritis
- If recipient is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or is taking pain medications
If you suffer from any of the following medical conditions, massage should only be done
if approved by your doctor. You should also check with your doctor if you have a condition not listed here that you may be concerned about.
- Any condition being treated by a medical professional
- Osteoporosis or other bone conditions
- Acute Arthritis and Rheumatism
- Being on antidepressant drugs
- Cancer
- High blood pressure
- Heart problems, angina, those with pacemakers
- Cardio-vascular conditions (thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension, heart conditions)
- Oedema
- Psoriasis or eczema
- Bell’s palsy, trapped or pinched nerves
- Diabetes
- Epilepsy
- Gynecological infections
- Kidney infections
- Nervous or psychotic conditions
If in doubt, please seek advice from your doctor. We cannot diagnose or give medical advice.