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Avoid massage in the following conditions, instances and disorders:
- During the first three months of pregnancy
It is generally not considered safe to massage pregnant
women, particularly in the first trimester, when the risk of miscarriage
is highest. However, a gentle head massage, without oils, is acceptable,
and a light gentle, loving, stroke appied to the face and brow will
relieve anxiety and release stress.
- High temperature/fever
The body is already fighting off toxins as indicated
by the rise in temperature. A massage would release even more unwelcome
toxins into the system.
- Open wounds, cuts and bruising
Apply only light touch drainage massage around the site, to assist the
blood flow towards the heart and encourage healing where bruising is
present. Oil may aggravate an open wound. While giving a massage, cover
up any open cuts or scratches on your hands with a plaster or other
dressing.
- Inflammation
Avoid massage over an area of inflammation, (which could be due to fatty
deposits causing a cyst) and massage will spread the infection. However
in case of localised problems, adding a strong base of essential oil
to your bath may help you to overcome, suffering with prickly heat and
redness. Inflammation would include conditions such as thrombosis and
phlebitis (painful clot in vein).
- Blood Clots
As massage could dislodge and move clot possibly causing a heart attack
or stroke.
- Varcoise veins, or history of thrombosis
Do not massage over broken or varicose veins as the blood supply is
impaired in this area. Massage will increase blood flow and flood the
over-worked cappilaries and veins, possibly causing coagulation and
affecting blood flow to the heart. Professionally trained therapists
may effleurage gently when advised by consultant or general practitioner
of patient.
- Infectious skin diseases
Bacterial infection, Lymphangitis, Fungal infection, Viral infections,
Herpes, in these conditions it is always advisable to get consent of
your medical practitioner before having massage. In case of severe skin
problems, such as eczema or psoriasis - massage can add to dermal irritation.
- Cancer
Cancer can spread through the lymphatic system, and because massage
increases lymphatic circulation, it may potentially spread the disease
as well. Simple, caring touch is fine, but massage strokes that stimulate
circulation are not. Always check with a doctor first.
- Broken bones / Fractures
Stay away from an area of mending bones. A little light massage to the
surrounding areas, though, can improve circulation and be quite helpful.
When a bone is weakened by a metastasis (spread of the cancer), deep
pressure over it may worsen the pain or even cause a fracture.
- Acute back pain
Avoid massage, particularly if the pain shoots down the arms or legs
when the back is massaged. Do not apply massage or pressure to the spinal
column or other bony processes unless gently passing over the area to
reach other areas of the body.
- Other chronic conditions and diseases
Consult a qualified medical practitioner if you having high blood pressure,
diabetes or any heart disease prior to receiving massage therapy.
IT IS NOT ADVISABLE to expose your skin to the sun's rays within 12 hours
of dermal application of base and essential oils.
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