Contraindications for Massage

When is a massage not suitable and why?

Massages are renowned for their positive effects on both the body and mind. They help relax muscles, reduce stress, boost the immune system, improve blood circulation, and promote overall well-being. However, there are situations when a massage may not be safe or appropriate. These situations are referred to as massage contraindications.

In this article, we will explain in detail what massage contraindications are, why it’s important to know about them, how to identify them, and what precautions to take if you suffer from any health issues. Additionally, at the end, we’ll recommend professional massages at Escape Salon, the highest-rated Thai massage salon in Prague, where your individual needs are always taken into account.

What Are Massage Contraindications?

Massage contraindications are medical or physiological conditions where a massage might worsen the condition, cause adverse effects, or even pose a risk to the client’s health. These conditions can either be absolute, where massage is strictly prohibited, or relative, where massage is possible but requires careful consideration and adaptation of massage techniques.

Massage is an individual process, and every person is different. What might be safe for one person could be dangerous for another. This is why it’s so important to understand massage contraindications and inform your therapist about your health status before starting a massage.

Main Types of Massage Contraindications

Massage contraindications can be divided into several main categories. Below, we’ll delve into the most common ones:

1. Infectious Diseases

If you have an infectious disease, such as a cold, flu, tonsillitis, skin infections, or other viral or bacterial illnesses, massage is unsuitable.

Why?
Massage during an infection can not only delay your recovery but also pose a risk of transmitting the infection to the therapist or other clients in the salon. Moreover, your body is in a weakened state, and a massage could worsen your symptoms.

Solution: It’s recommended to wait until the infection has cleared and your body is healthy again.

2. Heart Diseases and Cardiovascular Issues

People with heart conditions, such as heart failure, arrhythmia, or angina, should be cautious about massages.

Why?
Massages can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially impacting the cardiovascular system negatively.

Solution: If you have a heart condition, inform your therapist before starting the massage and opt for gentler massage techniques.

3. Pregnancy

During pregnancy, some types of massages may be inappropriate, especially in the first trimester or in cases of high-risk pregnancies.

Why?
Heat, pressure, or specific techniques can affect the fetus or hormonal balance during pregnancy.

Solution: If you’re expecting, inform your therapist and choose only pregnancy-specific massages designed for pregnant women.

4. Inflammatory and Autoimmune Conditions

People with active inflammation or autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or psoriasis, should be cautious.

Why?
Massage can stimulate the inflammatory response in the body, potentially worsening the condition.

Solution: It’s always best to consult a doctor or a skilled therapist about massage options.

5. Burns, Injuries, or Fresh Wounds

Massages in cases of fresh injuries, burns, or open wounds can lead to infection or aggravate already weakened tissues.

Why?
Heat, pressure, or manipulation can damage healing tissues.

Solution: Once the injury or burn has fully healed, you can reconsider getting a massage.

6. Diabetes and Its Complications

Individuals with diabetes, especially if they have neuropathy or circulation issues, should approach massages with caution.

Why?
Massages can affect the nervous system or cause unwanted changes in tissues in the case of diabetes.

Solution: Inform your therapist about your health condition and collaborate on selecting safe massage methods.

How to Prevent Problems? Communication is Key!

Before starting a massage, it’s always important to inform your therapist about your health status, current issues, and any problems that could affect the massage.

Tips:

  1. Inform your therapist about any health conditions, even if they’re not listed as contraindications.
  2. Mention any medications you’re taking that could affect massage techniques.
  3. Respect expert recommendations and don’t ignore your body’s warning signs.

Conclusion: Book a Safe Massage at Escape Salon!

👉 If you’re unsure whether a massage is suitable for you, don’t hesitate to consult the experts at Escape Salon about your health condition.

At Escape Salon, we always follow an individual approach, prioritize the health of our clients, and adapt massage techniques to your needs.

📞 Book your massage online or call us at +420 734 331 444.

Escape Massage: Your path to health, relaxation, and balance.