It is essential to define Contraindications so that students can understand when and why not to provide back massage.
Contra-indication is defined as:
"a symptom or circumstance that makes a particular medical treatment undesirable..."
Specific medical reasons that make a particular treatment, procedure, or medication inadvisable for a patient due to the potential harm it may cause. There are two types of contraindications:
Absolute Contraindications: A situation where the treatment or procedure is absolutely prohibited, as it could cause a life-threatening situation. Examples include:
Taking isotretinoin during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects, miscarriage, and premature birth.
Administering iron preparations to individuals with hemochromatosis (iron overload).
Relative Contraindications: A situation where the treatment or procedure is potentially harmful, but the benefits may outweigh the risks under certain circumstances. Examples include:
Taking a new medication that interacts with an existing medication, requiring close monitoring for adverse effects.
Participating in high-impact exercise or fitness programs for individuals with certain health conditions, such as arthritis or heart disease, which may require modifications or alternative exercises.
Contraindications are essential in medicine to ensure that healthcare providers make informed decisions about treatment and avoid potential harm to patients. They are often listed on medication labels, treatment guidelines, and patient information sheets to inform patients and healthcare providers about the potential risks and benefits of a particular treatment.
The following is a comprehensive list of contra-indications to massage:
Absolute Contra-indications
Fever (38°C or above)
Contagious diseases (e.g., flu, cold, strep throat, shingles)
Haemorrhage (bleeding)
Respiratory failure
Highly metastatic cancers (e.g., lymphoma, malignant melanoma)
Right after a major surgery
Shock
Stroke or heart attack (acute stage)
Infections or contagious skin conditions (e.g., herpes, impetigo)
Relative Contra-indications
Cardio-vascular conditions (e.g., thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension, heart conditions)
Medical conditions being treated by a medical practitioner
Recent scarring (less than 6 months old)
Skin conditions (e.g., severe acne, eczema, psoriasis, cold sores, open sores)
Pregnancy (unless prenatal massage is performed by a trained therapist)
Cancer (unless treated by a trained therapist and with a doctor’s release form)
Kidney or liver dysfunction (unless cleared by a healthcare professional)
Pinched nerves
Recent surgery (unless cleared by a healthcare professional)
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Varicose veins
Lumps or excessive bruising
Undiagnosed pain or inflammation (e.g., arthritis)
Local Contra-indications
Avoid massaging areas with:
Fresh wounds or injuries
Skin conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis)
Recent surgical sites
Areas with inflammation or swelling
Important Notes
Massage therapists should always inquire about a client’s health condition during the initial assessment and at the beginning of each session.
Clients should consult a physician before engaging in massage therapy if they have any medical conditions or concerns.
Massage therapists should modify their techniques or avoid certain areas if a client has a relative contra-indication.
Absolute contra-indications should be strictly avoided, and the therapist should refuse treatment if a client presents with one of these conditions.
Clients should inform their massage therapist about any medications, surgical procedures, or health changes that may affect their massage treatment.
Remember that this list is not exhaustive, and individual circumstances may vary. It is essential for massage therapists to stay up-to-date with the latest research and guidelines to ensure safe and effective practice.
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