When should you avoid having a massage?

Let’s begin with some conditions that may require extra care but are not always a full contraindication. These may include open wounds, sunburn, varicose veins, eczema, or some other skin conditions.

In many cases, these areas can simply be avoided during the massage. For example, if you have been on a beautiful holiday in Queensland and have sunburn around your neck, we can still massage the rest of your body while avoiding the affected area. The same applies to burns, wounds, or irritated skin on other parts of the body.

However, massage must not go ahead if you have any of the following conditions:

Deep vein thrombosis

Massage is not safe if you have, or suspect you may have, deep vein thrombosis. Pressure from massage may increase the risk of dislodging a blood clot, which can be very dangerous.

Fever

If you have a fever, it may be a sign that your body is fighting an infection, such as a cold, flu, or another illness. Massage can place extra stress on the body and may make you feel worse. It may also increase the risk of spreading viruses or bacteria to your therapist and others.

Some types of cancer

If you are currently undergoing cancer treatment, have recently been diagnosed, or are unsure whether massage is safe for you, we recommend seeing a therapist who is trained in oncology massage. At this stage, we do not offer oncology massage services.

Contagious illness or disease

Please be considerate when making a booking. If you have any condition that may be contagious or easily spread to others, please do not proceed with your massage booking. This helps protect our therapists and other clients.

Liver or kidney conditions

If you have a liver or kidney condition, please speak with your health practitioner before booking a massage. In cases of liver or kidney failure, massage should not go ahead unless you have medical clearance. Massage can increase circulation and place additional demand on the body, so it is important to make sure it is safe for you.

Uncontrolled hypertension

If your high blood pressure is being managed with medication and your doctor has cleared you for massage, there is usually nothing to worry about. However, if your hypertension is uncontrolled or untreated, massage may not be suitable. Massage can affect blood flow and circulation, which may make you feel unwell.

Pregnancy before 12 weeks

Massage during the early stages of pregnancy requires extra care. After the first trimester, massage is generally considered safer, but we strongly recommend booking with a therapist who is specifically trained in pregnancy massage. This helps ensure both mum and bub are properly cared for.

If you are unsure whether massage is suitable for you, please check with your doctor or health practitioner before making a booking.