Massage should be avoided if you have skin conditions such as rashes, open wounds, or contagious skin diseases like fungal infections or herpes. Massaging over these areas can worsen the condition, irritate the skin, or spread the infection to other body areas.
Open wounds—popped, scratched, or bleeding pimples and cysts—are contraindications to massage,” explains Morien, who says massage also is contraindicated for skin that's red, swollen or hot—although therapists have discretion to define for themselves what “contraindication” means.
Certain skin conditions, such as open wounds, burns, rashes, or contagious skin infections (like impetigo or fungal infections), should not be treated with massage.
Tell the therapist if you have these conditions
Contagious skin conditions (boils, warts, or herpes) Other skin conditions (burns, rashes, or sores) Circulatory system issues (high blood pressure, varicose veins, or stroke) Digestive system issues (ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, or colitis)
Total contraindications are such things as unstable hypertension or high blood pressure, contagious diseases such as the cold or flu, a significant fever, and/or recent surgery. As a massage therapist, we also learned about endangerment sites.
The woman described by today's contributor is probably not contagious at all, but simply out of concern for her well-being, it's best to delay her massage until her symptoms have cleared up.
The skin rashes that are contagious or sensitive should not be massaged. A sunburn is also contraindicated for massage therapy, and the sunburn should be healed first. If you have uncontrolled inflammation you may not want to get a massage.
"Rashes -- stay away from those areas that might be infected," warned Martha Young, a certified massage therapist. "Whether it's eczema, poison ivy or some other skin allergy, massaging that area might irritate it further." She suggests clearing the therapy with a doctor, even before heading out for that massage.
The National Psoriasis Foundation says yes. In addition to soothing psoriasis triggers, like stress, or PsA side symptoms like joint pain and stiffness, massage therapy can improve your mood, studies have shown.
People with Certain Medical Conditions. While deep tissue massage can be beneficial for many, it's not recommended for everyone. If you have certain medical conditions, such as osteoporosis, cancer, or blood clotting disorders, it's best to steer clear of deep tissue work unless your doctor gives you the green light.
DO NOT use massage if you have an active infection. Massage that promotes lymph drainage, when used with compression and exercise, may help prevent cellulitis.
Examples of areas of caution for massage include the popliteal space behind the knee, the anterior cervical region, and the axillary region.
These include direct manipulation of the spine, the front of the neck, and any visibly injured or inflamed areas. Avoiding these areas helps protect the client from unnecessary pain and complications, which is why therapists need to be well-versed in anatomy and safe massage techniques.
Aromatherapy oils are commonly applied via massage, but this is often inappropriate for people with eczema, especially during an acute flare-up. Massaging inflamed or broken skin is not recommended because of the risk of spreading infection and aggravating inflammation.
One of the first red flags in a massage session is a lack of communication. If the therapist doesn't take the time to ask about your pain points or preferences before starting, that's a sign of trouble.
If you have something contagious, please reschedule your massage. If you have a bug, stay home and get better. If you have a skin ailment (fungal infection, poison ivy, etc…) please wait until it has subsided before getting a massage.
The temperature of the water can cause your muscles to tense up, which can negate the benefits of massage therapy. The heat can also increase the risk of dehydration. Inflammation may also occur if you are already feeling sore after the massage. Wait at least 1-2 hours before showering or taking a bath.
1. Slow down when you need to. Speed up when you don't need to slow down.
If you have inflammation of any kind massage to the area will further aggravate the situation. Massage increases blood flow. If you have high blood pressure that is not under control, the increased blood flow that is a result of massage therapy may cause problems.
Massage therapy may be a safe and effective treatment option for people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. However, individuals need to discuss any relevant potential triggers or skin irritants with the therapist first.