Massage Contraindications: When to Seek Medical Advice First

Massage therapy is safe for the vast majority of people, but there are certain situations where massage is not appropriate — or where it should only be performed after medical clearance. These situations are known as contraindications. Understanding them is an important part of being an informed client, and it is one of the reasons why a qualified therapist always conducts a thorough consultation before treatment.

Absolute Contraindications

These are conditions where massage should not be performed at all:

• Fever or acute infection: Massage increases circulation, which can spread infection and worsen fever. Wait until the acute illness has resolved.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Massage can dislodge a blood clot, with potentially life-threatening consequences. If you have been diagnosed with or are suspected of having a DVT, do not have a massage.
• Severe cardiovascular conditions: Uncontrolled high blood pressure, recent heart attack, or unstable angina require medical clearance before massage.
• Open wounds or skin infections: Massage should not be applied to areas with open wounds, burns, skin infections, or contagious skin conditions.
• Recent fractures: Massage should not be applied to or near a recent fracture until it has healed and you have medical clearance.

Local Contraindications

These are conditions where massage should be avoided in a specific area but can be safely performed elsewhere on the body:

• Varicose veins: Direct pressure on varicose veins should be avoided, but massage can be safely applied to other areas.
• Bruising: Avoid direct pressure on bruised areas until they have healed.
• Skin conditions: Areas affected by eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis may need to be avoided, depending on their severity and whether they are in an active flare.
• Recent surgical sites: Massage should not be applied to a surgical site until it has fully healed (typically 6–8 weeks), but other areas can be treated.

Conditions Requiring Medical Clearance

Some conditions require a conversation with your GP or specialist before massage:

• Pregnancy (first trimester): While pregnancy massage is safe from the second trimester onwards, some therapists prefer to wait until after the first trimester. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, medical clearance is essential.
• Cancer: Massage can be beneficial for people with cancer, but it should be performed by a therapist who understands the specific considerations involved, and medical clearance is recommended.
• Osteoporosis: Massage can be adapted for people with osteoporosis, but the therapist needs to know about the condition to adjust pressure and technique accordingly.
• Blood-thinning medication: If you are taking anticoagulant medication, you may bruise more easily. Inform your therapist so they can adjust the pressure.

Why the Consultation Matters

This is why Caroline always conducts a thorough health consultation before your first treatment. It is not bureaucracy — it is clinical practice. The consultation ensures that your treatment is safe, appropriate, and tailored to your specific health situation.

If you are unsure whether massage is appropriate for you, contact Massage for Wellness on 07986 476741 for a confidential discussion before booking.