What are the contra-indications to massage?

Massage is non-invasive, relaxing and natural. It is therefore generally considered a safe treatment for most people. However, there are three types of contra-indications: total, when massage should not be performed at all, localised, when massage can be performed over the rest of the body but not over the contra-indicated areas; medical, when massage can only be performed once medical permission has been granted.

Total Contra-indications:

When a client has any of these conditions the therapist should not massage.

• Fever
• Contagious or infectious diseases
• Under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Cancer (unless in terminal stages and then with medical permission).

Local Contra-indications:

The therapist can massage but not over any areas affected by:

• Skin diseases
• Undiagnosed lumps or bumps
• Varicose veins
• Pregnancy (on the abdomen, with medical permission)
• Cuts
• Bruises
• Abrasions
• Inflammation
• Scar tissue (two years for major operation and six months for a small scar)
• Sunburn
• Areas of undiagnosed pain
• Menstruation - on the abdomen, for the first few days or depending on how the client is feeling

Medical Contra-indications:

If the client suffers from any of the following conditions, massage can only take place once it has been approved by a GP:

• Pregnancy
• Cardio-vascular conditions (thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension, hypotension, heart conditions)
• Any condition already being treated by a GP or another complementary therapy practitioner
• Medical oedema
• Osteoporosis
• Arthritis
• Nervous/psychotic conditions
• Epilepsy
• Recent operations
• Diabetes
• Asthma
• Bell''s palsy
• Trapped or pinched nerves
• Inflamed nerve
• Acute rheumatism