If you have uncontrolled inflammation you may not want to get a massage. The massage may actually increase the inflammation due to the pressure applied and the possibility for increased circulation of inflammatory markers. It is good to control the inflammation first prior to scheduling a massage.
Use caution when considering massage if you have: Damaged or eroded joints from arthritis. Flare of inflammation, fever or a skin rash.
Certain skin conditions, such as open wounds, burns, rashes, or contagious skin infections (like impetigo or fungal infections), should not be treated with massage. Even non-contagious skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema may be aggravated by massage if not handled carefully.
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.
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 first rule of massage therapy is to ensure the comfort and safety of the client. This includes creating a comfortable and relaxing environment, using proper techniques and pressure, and communicating effectively with the client to ensure that they are comfortable with the massage.
Points on the body that we do not massage are: The spine, as it can be irreparably injured. The abdomen, especially when it comes to pregnant women or people with stomach and abdominal diseases. The head, when there is an injury or other factors including inflammation and swelling.
As mentioned previously, muscle strains and sprains are the most common source of back pain. Massage therapy is a great treatment option for these conditions. It not only eases muscle tension, but it also helps to reduce spasms and inflammation in an affected area.
“I think people with autoimmune diseases feel like their body has betrayed them in some way,” she says. “Their body is doing something it is not supposed to do and it alienates them from their body. Massage therapy can help them get in touch with their body in a positive way.”
These include direct manipulation of the spine, the front of the neck, and any visibly injured or inflamed areas.
Disc herniation, soft tissue trauma, neurologic compromise, spinal cord injury, dissection of the vertebral arteries, and others were the main complications of massage. Spinal manipulation in massage has repeatedly been associated with serious AEs especially. Clearly, massage therapies are not totally devoid of risks.
By improving blood circulation and promoting the release of endorphins, massage therapy can enhance the body's natural healing processes, providing significant relief from nerve pain. Swedish massage is one of the most recommended techniques for treating pinched nerves.
In the acute stage of muscle rupture, the severed muscle may still bleed. Massage will increase bleeding and tissue damage and slow healing. After the first 48–72 hours, massage can be performed, depending on the extent of the muscle injury.
The gentle, rhythmic strokes used in Swedish massage help to increase the flow of oxygen-rich blood to affected areas, which can reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Stop normal physical activity for only the first few days. This helps calm your symptoms and reduce swelling (inflammation) in the area of the pain. Apply heat or ice to the painful area. Use ice for the first 48 to 72 hours, and then use heat.
For those suffering from back pain, a deep tissue massage is one of the best types of massage. This massage focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue, releasing chronic tension and relieving pain. Deep tissue massage can also help improve posture and reduce inflammation.
If you have skin rashes or a sunburn then you should not get a massage. 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.
The back is one of the most requested areas in any massage. It's where many people carry stress, tension, and discomfort from sitting, standing, or physical activity. Therapists focus on the upper, middle, and lower back to release tightness and improve mobility. The neck and shoulders are another high-tension zone.