When Not to have a massage….Massage Contradiction

Despite the many benefits associated with Hot Stone Massage, it is not an appropriate therapy for everyone in certain circumstances. Referred to as massage contradictions, here are a few considerations below:

Breaks in skin

You should avoid a Hot Stone Massage until fully healed. Severe bruising, cuts or scrapes, Sunburn or Varicose veins increase the risk of tissue damage and or injury.

Infection or illness

This may sound like common sense, but anyone with a FEVER, COLD or FLU should avoid a massage until they feel better. Germs can be spread plus you will have difficulty in regulating body temp leaving you feeling uncomfortable when having the Hot Stones placed on your body. Plus the fact that you are lying on your front with a runny nose or heavy chest wouldn’t necessarily be the pleasant relaxing position for your massage.

Heart disease and Diabetes

Heart disease can lead to swelling of veins or other problems with veins and arteries in legs which can be negatively affected by massage.

Diabetes influences how well the nerves and blood functions in the body which can lead to the person not being able to feel if the Hot Stones are burning their skin of if the therapist is massaging too hard.

Pregnancy

Pregnant women can benefit from a relaxing massage however you need to let your therapist know if you suffer from low blood pressure etc. Always seek medical advise on whether or not to have a massage during your pregnancy.

Always remember that if you have any major aches and pains that you must seek medical advise from your doctor as massage could possibly do more harm than good. That’s not to say that massage isn’t good for your pains.