Massage therapy is a safe and effective way to relieve stress, reduce muscle tension, and support overall wellness.
However, there are times when postponing your appointment is the safest choice. These situations are known as massage contraindications, meaning conditions that make massage inadvisable either temporarily or in specific areas of the body.
The good news is that most massage contraindications are almost always short-term. Once you’ve recovered, you can get back to enjoying the many benefits of massage. Here are five of the most common reasons to reschedule your appointment.
1. You Have a Fever or Contagious Illness
If you’re feeling under the weather, it’s best to stay home and focus on rest. A fever, cold, flu, COVID-19, stomach virus, or other contagious illness is one of the most common massage contraindications.
Massage increases circulation throughout the body, which may place additional stress on your system while it’s working hard to fight an infection. More importantly, coming in while contagious exposes your massage therapist and other clients to illness, which could make them sick too.
Once you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours and are feeling better, you can safely return for your appointment.
2. You Have an Open Wound, Skin Infection, or Contagious Rash
Healthy skin is important for safe massage therapy. Open cuts, burns, severe sunburns, active skin infections, or contagious conditions such as ringworm should be fully healed before receiving treatment over those areas.
Depending on the situation, your therapist may still be able to work on unaffected parts of your body. Be sure to let them know about any skin concerns before your session so they can determine the safest approach.
3. You Have a Blood Clot or Suspected Deep Vein Thrombosis
One of the most serious massage contraindications is a known or suspected blood clot, particularly deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Symptoms may include swelling, warmth, redness, or pain in one leg.
Massage should never be performed over a suspected blood clot because the clot could become dislodged. If you have any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention rather than scheduling a massage.
4. You’ve Had a Recent Injury or Surgery
Massage can be very helpful during recovery, but timing matters. Immediately after surgery or an acute injury, your body needs time to heal. Working directly on newly injured tissue may increase discomfort or interfere with the healing process.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding massage after surgery or injury. Once you’re cleared, your massage therapist can modify your treatment to support a safe recovery.
5. You’re Experiencing a Medical Emergency
Massage is designed to support wellness, not treat medical emergencies. If you’re experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, sudden weakness, severe dizziness, or other concerning symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Once the underlying issue has been properly evaluated and treated, massage may become part of your long-term recovery plan if approved by your healthcare provider.
Massage Contraindications: Postpone & Recover
Most health conditions do not automatically prevent you from receiving massage therapy.
In fact, many people with chronic pain, arthritis, headaches, and other ongoing conditions benefit greatly from regular treatment. The key is communicating openly with your massage therapist about your health history and any recent changes.
At Simply Massage in Avon, Colorado, your safety is always our top priority. If you’re unsure whether massage is appropriate for your situation, we’re happy to answer your questions.
When you’re ready, give us a call at 970-748-1600 or schedule your appointment online. Let us help you feel your best, safely and comfortably!