If you’re not sure whether you should get a massage, this blog post is for you. We’ll go over some conditions that make massage contraindicated and when it’s generally not allowed. Hopefully, this will help you make a more informed decision about whether massage is right for you.
Keep in mind that therapeutic massage offers multiple benefits. If you want to know what these include, then we recommend you read our article The Benefits of Therapeutic Massage.
When is massage not allowed?
There are certain health conditions where massage is contraindicated, meaning it’s not allowed or advised. If you have any of the following conditions, avoid getting a massage:
- Fever
- Pregnancy
- Contagious Diseases
- Blood Clots
- Kidney Conditions or Liver Conditions
- Inflammation
- Cancer
- Uncontrolled Hypertension
Let’s see why each of these conditions makes massage contraindicated.
Massage may not be allowed when you have fever
When it comes to recovering from a fever, massages may not always be the best option. When someone has a fever, their body temperature is elevated, meaning that massage can ultimately make them feel worse.
Massage techniques are great for health maintenance and overall relaxation, but it is not recommended when suffering from a fever because the excess heat can complicate the body’s natural healing process and increase the severity of the fever.
Massage is not allowed when you are under contagious diseases
When it comes to protecting yourself and others from contagious diseases, getting a massage should not be at the top of your priority list. Since massage therapists use close physical contact during massages that could easily spread bugs, it is highly advised that if you’re currently sick with something contagious, like the flu or a cold, you should wait until you are feeling better before scheduling an appointment.
Not only does this ensure that your therapist is safe from getting infected, but it also prevents the disease from transferring to other clients who may get an appointment with your therapist later. Besides, if you’re feeling ill because of a contagious sickness, chances are that incorporating additional touch and pressure wouldn’t feel very enjoyable anyway. Get well soon!
Massage may not be allowed when you suffer from blood clots
When it comes to blood clots, massage can be both beneficial and dangerous. In some cases, if a person has an especially severe clot, they should not use massage at all. On the other hand, in milder cases involving smaller clots that may cause symptoms like swelling and pain, massage can help by increasing circulation to the affected area and breaking up any stagnant blood.
When performed correctly by a certified masseuse, massage therapy can have tremendous health benefits; however, it is important to consult with a doctor prior to engaging in this form of treatment to ensure that it will not exacerbate an existing clot.
Massage may not be allowed during pregnancy
When it comes to pregnancy, massage can be a great way to reduce stress and tension during the nine-month journey. Many pregnant women regularly seek massage therapy, as they feel it is an integral part of taking care of their changing bodies. However, before getting a massage, it’s important to ensure that certain areas and pressure points are avoided.
In the early months of pregnancy, it is important to avoid heats pads, firm pressure on the stomach area, and certain techniques that could put too much strain on the body. As women progress into the later stages of pregnancy, there are certain positions that may not be safe and can cause harm to mother and baby.
When in doubt, always consult a healthcare professional before booking a massage appointment. Taking extra caution when speaking with a therapist to ensure all safety measures are taken will ultimately give the best results for a more relaxing experience throughout the entire pregnancy.
Massage may not be allowed when you deal with kidney conditions or liver conditions
If you are living with a kidney or liver condition, it’s important to consult your doctor before getting a massage. Massage therapy can have various benefits, however, certain massage techniques can burden these already vulnerable organs. Sometimes, an undiagnosed illness may be worsened, leading to potential long term health consequences if not properly managed.
Additionally, during the massage session itself, any particular technique may cause discomfort and even risk of infection if the condition has reached an advanced stage. Don’t take any risks – speak with your healthcare provider for professional advice on whether massage is suitable for your situation.
It may not be allowed when you are dealing with cancer
Massage can be a great way for cancer patients to manage pain and stress caused by their condition. However, before considering this healing practice, it is important to check with your doctor.
Certain treatments may put the patient at risk or interfere with the efficacy of the massage itself, so it is best to not engage in massage therapy without first speaking with your physician. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can also be beneficial during and after treatment.
Massage is an incredibly beneficial practice, but it is important to note that there are certain medical conditions for which massage may not be allowed, so it should either be avoided or approached with caution. No matter what kind of medical condition you’re dealing with – if any – it’s important that you take care of yourself and feel comfortable before trying any kind of massage therapy.
Massage may not be allowed when you deal with inflammation or injury
If you are dealing with inflammation or an injury, massage can be a great way to reduce pain and promote healing. However, in order for it to be beneficial and not worsen the condition, certain techniques should not be used.
For instance, deep tissue massage may put too much strain on the affected area, so it is important to ask your massage therapist if they specialize in this type of massage before scheduling an appointment. Gentle and light pressure techniques such as Swedish Massage or Shiatsu may be safer options, though it is best to speak with both a healthcare provider and a qualified massage therapist to determine what kind of treatment is right for you.
It may not be allowed when you suffer from uncontrolled hypertension
Patients with uncontrolled hypertension should speak with their healthcare professional before considering massage therapy.
Uncontrolled blood pressure can put additional strain on the body, so it’s important to be aware of any potential risks that could arise from a massage session. Massage therapists should also be made aware of any existing medical condition in order for them to provide a safe, effective treatment.
It is also important to take blood pressure readings before and after the session in order to determine if any changes have occurred as a result of the massage. If your blood pressure does spike during or after a massage, it’s advisable to stop immediately and contact your healthcare provider for further advice.
Get the professional in-home massage you deserve in Patras
At Massage Katoikon, we take pride in providing the best massage therapy services to our clients. Our experienced masseurs provide customizable sessions that can be tailored to meet your individual needs and preferences, ensuring optimal comfort and therapeutic benefits. We believe everyone deserves a luxurious massage experience in the comfort of their own home, so we have made it easy to access a professional massage without leaving your doorstep.
Book your appointment today and enjoy the benefits of an amazing massage therapy session in your own home in Patras. Our team is available to answer any questions or concerns you may have, so don’t hesitate to contact us! We look forward to providing you with the care and relaxation you deserve.
