Massage therapy has been shown to have few serious risks provided it is performed by a properly trained therapist and appropriate cautions are followed.

Say NO to Massage all together if the following are present and until they are resolved:

• significant fever
• severe unstable hypertension
• systemic contagious or infectious diseases, including the common cold and flu
• acute conditions requiring first aid or medical attention
• blood clots

Avoid massage on the affected area for the following conditions:

• Acute flare-up of inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
• aneurism
• local contagious or irritable skin conditions
• open sores or wounds
• recent surgery
• recent burn
• varicosities
• malignancy

General cautions for massage include:

• Although massage therapy appears to be generally safe for cancer patients, they should consult their oncologist before having a massage that involves deep or intense pressure. Any direct pressure over a tumor is discouraged. Cancer patients should discuss any concerns about massage therapy with their oncologist.
• Massage should not be done in any area of the body with blood clots, fractures, open or healing wounds, skin infections, weakened bones or area of a recent surgery.
• Vigorous massage should be avoided by people with bleeding disorders, low blood platelet counts and if taking blood-thinning medications such as Warfarin, or Coumadin.

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