When Not to Get a Massage
In most cases a massage is safe and beneficial, but there are conditions when it is not advisable. Do not have a massage if you have a fever, an acute infectious or inflammatory illness, a fresh injury, or vein inflammation or thrombosis. For a number of other conditions – for example during pregnancy, with high blood pressure or during cancer treatment – a massage is possible, but only after consulting a doctor and in an adapted form.
The aim of these rules is your safety. If you are unsure, get in touch with me in advance, or consult your doctor – together we will find a solution.
Absolute Contraindications (Postpone the Massage)
In these cases a massage cannot be performed and must be postponed until the problems subside:
- Fever, flu, tonsillitis and other acute infectious illnesses.
- Acute inflammation (of joints, veins, skin) and purulent foci.
- Thrombosis or suspected thrombosis and vein inflammation (thrombophlebitis).
- Fresh injuries, fractures, sprains, open or unhealed wounds and burns.
- Infectious and acute skin diseases at the massage site.
- Bleeding disorders and treatment with medication that significantly reduces blood clotting (only after consulting a doctor).
- Being under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances.
Relative Contraindications (Consult Your Doctor First)
For the following conditions a massage is often possible, but only in an adapted form and with your doctor's approval. Please always inform me about them:
- Pregnancy – especially the first trimester and high-risk pregnancy; some techniques and areas must be avoided.
- High or untreated blood pressure and serious heart conditions.
- Cancer and the period of cancer treatment.
- Diabetes, osteoporosis and other chronic illnesses.
- Varicose veins (varices) – the massage is performed away from the affected areas.
- Skin problems, allergies and skin irritation.
- Shortly after surgery or a serious illness.
Local Contraindications
Sometimes the only obstacle is a specific spot on the body – for example a mole, a bruise, a minor injury, eczema or a fresh scar. In such a case I will skip that area and massage the rest of the body without restriction.
Please Always Inform Me
Before the massage, tell me about any health problems, diagnoses, medication you take and about pregnancy. Based on this I will choose a safe technique, or recommend that you postpone the massage. This openness is in the interest of your health.
Important Notice
This overview is for information only and does not replace a medical examination or a doctor's advice. A massage is not a treatment method or a substitute for medical care. If you have any doubts about your health, always consult a doctor first.
Related
- What to expect on your first visit – how to prepare and how the massage works
- Massage menu – choose a suitable massage
Frequently Asked Questions About Contraindications
Can I have a massage with a cold or fever?
No. With a fever, flu, tonsillitis or an acute infectious illness, postpone the massage until you recover. A massage could worsen your condition and also poses a risk to others.
Is a massage safe during pregnancy?
It depends on the type of massage and the stage of pregnancy. Some techniques and areas must be avoided, and in the first trimester or with a high-risk pregnancy I recommend a massage only with a doctor's approval. Always inform me about your pregnancy in advance.
I have varicose veins, can I have a massage?
Yes, but the affected areas are not massaged. The surrounding parts and the rest of the body can be massaged without any problem. However, with vein inflammation or thrombosis a massage is ruled out.
I'm undergoing cancer treatment. Can I have a massage?
A massage during cancer treatment is possible only with the explicit approval of your treating doctor and in a very gentle form. Without consulting a doctor I do not perform it.
What if I'm not sure whether I can have a massage?
Get in touch with me in advance and describe your condition, or consult your doctor. It is better to arrange things beforehand than to risk your health.