| Certain medical
conditions require the exercise of caution concerning
the advisability of giving or receiving massage. If you
are in any doubt, or if you or your partner are under
medical supervision, check with your doctor or other qualified
medical practitioner before embarking on massage therapy.
This advice applies particularly in the case of cardiovascular
conditions and heart disease, especially in cases of thrombosis,
phlebitis, and oedema.
Never apply pressure under or over varicose veins. Never
massage directly over infected skin, for example where
there are warts, herpes, or boils, or where there is inflammation,
unexplained lumps, bruises and open cuts. While giving
a massage, cover up any open cuts or scratches on your
hands with a plaster or other dressing. Massage on the
abdomen is best avoided during the first three months
of pregnancy when the risk of miscarriage is highest.
The causes of acute back pain should first be diagnosed
by a physician before receiving massage treatment. Consult
a qualified medical practitioner in cases of raised temperature,
infections, or contagious disease.
- Seek medical advice before having a massage if you
suffer from phlebitis, thrombosis, varicose veins, severe
acute back pain, or fever.
- Swellings, fractures, skin infections, or bruises
should not be massaged. Lumps and swellings should be
checked by your doctor.
- Massage of the abdomen, legs, and feet should not
be given during the first three months of pregnancy.
- Cancer patients are best treated by specially trained
practitioners who know which areas to avoid and which
kind of massage is appropriate.
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