Contraindications: When to Avoid a Massage

Although generally very helpful and healthful, there are certain times and under certain conditions where massage is not recommended, or contraindicated. Here is a fairly comprehensive list of times and conditions under which we do not recommend for you to receive a massage:

Vascular Conditions

• thrombosis


• embolus


• severe varicosities


• aneurysm


• Raynaud's phenomenon


• severe, uncontrolled hypertension


• anticoagulant therapies (Coumadin, Heparin, etc.)


• bruising


• Severe Heart Condition


• infectious viral, fungal, or bacterial conditions


• rashes


• poison ivy, poison oak, sumac


• athlete's foot



• ringworm


• blisters


• Inflammation


• Abrasions, Cuts, Hematomas


• Cancer - please consult your physician


• Recent Surgery


• Infectious Diseases


• Diabetes with Vascular Dysfunction


• Fractures