Acute conditions and inflammation
Acute infections and fever, including flu, respiratory infections with fever, and other acute infectious illnesses.
Massage stimulates circulation and lymphatic drainage. During an infection, this can put extra strain on the heart and may cause a sudden rise in temperature.
Skin conditions in the area to be massaged, including fungal, pustular and some infectious conditions.
Friction and massage oils may spread an infection to healthy areas of skin and compromise its natural protective barrier.
Acute inflammatory conditions and flare-ups of certain chronic conditions.
During the acute phase, tissues need time to recover. Massage may worsen local inflammation and swelling.
Acute injuries, including fractures, dislocations, and ligament or muscle damage.
Recent injuries require rest and immobilisation. A doctor may recommend massage much later, during the rehabilitation phase.
Blood vessels, heart and circulation
Thrombosis and thrombophlebitis: massage of the affected area is contraindicated.
Deep massage of affected areas is strictly contraindicated because of the risk of dislodging a clot or damaging blood vessel walls.
Severe cardiovascular disease that is unstable.
Changes in blood vessel tone and blood flow during a session can place extra strain on the heart and circulation.
Uncontrolled high blood pressure.
When blood pressure is unstable, a session may trigger a hypertensive crisis. Massage is only appropriate once the condition is consistently stable.
Bleeding disorders and problems with blood clotting.
When blood clotting is impaired, even moderate pressure may cause bleeding under the skin, tiny capillary injuries and bruising.
Systemic conditions and surgery
For some cancers, the need for massage and the appropriate approach must be determined by a doctor on an individual basis.
Because massage affects tissue metabolism and lymphatic drainage, it must be discussed with your oncologist, who can advise on suitable areas and a gentle approach.
Severe liver or kidney disease, especially when organ function is significantly impaired.
The increased clearance of muscle metabolism by-products may place extra strain on organs whose filtering function is already impaired.
Some neurological conditions in the acute phase.
With acute neuritis or severe nerve root symptoms, deep massage may increase pressure on nerves and swelling around them.
Recent surgery: wait until your doctor says massage is safe.
Wait until surgical incisions have fully healed and the deeper tissue layers have recovered.