Massage Therapy Contraindications

Your safety and well-being are my top priority. Massage therapy is generally safe and beneficial, but there are times when treatment may need to be postponed, modified, or require medical clearance.

Absolute Contraindications

Massage will not be performed if you have:

Fever, flu, or active infection

COVID-19 symptoms or a recent positive test

Contagious skin conditions (such as ringworm, impetigo, or scabies)

Uncontrolled high blood pressure

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), blood clots, or phlebitis

Active cancer without medical clearance

Recent major surgery without medical clearance

Open wounds, active bleeding, burns, or severe bruising

Severe, unexplained pain

Vomiting, nausea, or diarrhea

Intoxication or impairment from drugs or alcohol

Local Contraindications

Massage may be performed, but certain areas will be avoided if you have:

Recent sprains, strains, fractures, or joint instability

Rashes, sunburns, or inflamed skin in a specific area

Pronounced varicose veins

Hernia

Localized swelling or inflammation

Recent injections (including vaccines or trigger-point injections)

Healing incisions, sutures, or very recent scar tissue

Conditions Requiring Medical Clearance or Modification

Please let me know prior to your session if you have:

Diabetes (including neuropathy or slow healing)

Heart conditions, pacemaker, or history of stroke

Autoimmune disorders

Osteoporosis

Pregnancy

Neurological conditions

Recent concussion or frequent migraines

Cancer (in treatment or remission)

Use of blood-thinning medications

Epilepsy or seizure disorders

Chronic pain conditions (such as fibromyalgia or hypermobility/EDS)

Please Reschedule If:

You are feeling sick or starting to come down with something

You recently started a new medication and aren’t sure how you feel on it yet

You received a new tattoo or piercing within the last 48 hours in the area to be worked on

You had recent dental work (within 24–48 hours) and feel sore or uncomfortable

If you’re ever unsure whether massage is appropriate, please reach out before your appointment. We can decide together what’s safest and most supportive for your body.