When should deep tissue massage be avoided?

Author: Caesar Keeling  |  Last update: Wednesday, April 9, 2025

People with Osteoporosis and Cancer that has spread to the bones should avoid Deep Tissue Massage because it can cause fractures in your bones. If you have an open wound or a skin infection, then reschedule your appointment. This way, you avoid developing a new infection and prevent the condition from getting worse.

When should you not get a deep tissue massage?

So, who should not get a deep tissue massage? Deep tissue massage should not be performed on clients that have fragility issues, skin conditions, or problems with blood flow such as: A blood clotting disorder.

What are 3 instances when massage is not recommended?

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.

Can a deep tissue massage go wrong?

In rare cases, deep tissue massage can lead to nerve damage. This usually happens when too much pressure is applied near a nerve or when a nerve is compressed for an extended period. If you experience numbness, tingling, or sharp pain during your massage, speak up right away.

What parts of the body should not be massaged?

These are areas of the body where deep, sustained pressure should be avoided because of the structures that lie beneath. Those areas are the anterior and posterior triangles of the neck, suprasternal notch, sternum, axilla, spinal column, umbilical area, inguinal triangle, popliteal fossa, and the antecubital fossa.

Should massage therapy hurt? | Ohio State Medical Center

What areas are off limits during a massage?

These include direct manipulation of the spine, the front of the neck, and any visibly injured or inflamed areas.

What is the most relaxing body part to massage?

Choosing Your Massage Focus Target Spots
  • ➪ Head. In our view, a head massage is a great choice for some extra focus, as it can be highly relaxing yet revitalising at the same time. ...
  • ➪ Neck & Shoulders. One of Top 3 selected body parts. ...
  • ➪ Back. ...
  • ➪ Buttocks. ...
  • ➪ Thighs. ...
  • ➪ Calves. ...
  • ➪ Feet. ...
  • ➪ Arms & Hands.

What is the disadvantage of deep tissue massage?

Blood clotting disorder: Avoid deep tissue massage because intense pressure used to reach the deeper layers of muscle tissue can potentially dislodge blood clots or increase the risk of clot formation, especially in individuals with existing clotting disorders.

What is the most pleasurable type of massage?

The Most Relaxing Types of Massages
  • Swedish Massage. The most common type of massage therapy, Swedish massage will help to relax you with a combination of specific movements including: ...
  • Hot Stone Massage. Another very relaxing type of massage is the hot stone massage. ...
  • Chair Massage. ...
  • Aromatherapy Massage.

What is the best massage for lower back pain?

While a deep tissue massage may be uncomfortable initially, it is highly effective in relieving pain and promoting healing. Other massages that may benefit those with back pain include Swedish, trigger point, and Shiatsu.

When not to go for a massage?

It's not a good idea to schedule a massage appointment if you are experiencing any of the following: Have a fever. Were recently involved in an accident. Are dizzy or nauseated.

What are the three skin conditions when massage should not be given?

Some skin conditions such as severe acne, eczema, psoriasis, cold sores and open sores should prevent or restrict massage treatment to minimise the risk of more severe conditions developing.

Can you get blood drawn after a massage?

If you are planning to start using medication, perform tests before or after treatment, and no sooner than 10-14 days post-treatment. If you are taking any medication, tell your doctor or laboratory specialist. Blood testing is not recommended after massage therapy, reflexotherapy or physiotherapy.

Why can't you shower after deep tissue massage?

After a massage, your body is in a state of relaxation and recovery, and the massage oils applied to your skin continue to nourish it. Taking a hot bath immediately could strip away these benefits. Generally, it's recommended to wait at least two to three hours after a massage before taking a bath.

Is it good if deep tissue massage hurts?

Just like soreness post-workout, pain isn't a sign that your deep tissue massage was effective. If you end up feeling pain during your massage and it's not tolerable, you should always let your massage therapist know.

How long does it take your body to recover from a deep tissue massage?

At a minimum, you should rest for at least 24 hours after your massage to ensure your muscles have plenty of time to repair themselves. Post-massage soreness is completely normal after a sports massage, and your muscles may still feel tight after 48 hours, which is a sign they are still recovering.

What is the most requested massage?

Swedish massage is arguably considered the most popular massage type, appearing on a majority of spa menus worldwide. This Western massage utilizes the following techniques—effleurage (stroking), friction (rubbing), petrissage (kneading) and tapotement (rhythmic choppings)—for a truly relaxing spa treatment experience.

What type of massage is best for inflammation?

The Best Types of Massage for Inflammation
  • Swedish Massage. The Swedish massage is a classic choice for reducing inflammation. ...
  • Deep Tissue Massage. A deep-tissue massage might be more effective for deeper inflammation. ...
  • Lymphatic Drainage Massage. ...
  • Trigger Point Therapy. ...
  • Hot Stone Massage.

Who shouldn't get a deep tissue massage?

Here are the conditions that fall into these category;
  • Fever. Anytime you have a fever, whether from a cold, the flu or some other infection, you should not get a massage. ...
  • Contagious Diseases. ...
  • Blood Clots. ...
  • Pregnancy. ...
  • Kidney Conditions or Liver Conditions. ...
  • Cancer. ...
  • Inflammation. ...
  • Uncontrolled Hypertension.

Is it better to get a massage at night or morning?

If you have a busy lifestyle and seek relaxation after a long day of work and family commitments, an evening or before-bed massage can help you relax your body and mind. On the other hand, a morning or afternoon massage can increase your energy levels and help you face the day.

How do you know if you got a bad massage?

Experiencing sharp pain or excessive discomfort during or after the session is a clear indication that the massage wasn't beneficial. While some discomfort can be normal, especially with deep tissue massage, it should never cross the line into sharp pain.

What type of massage is most intimate?

Nuru Massage

The word nuru is Japanese for slippery. During a nuru massage, a person covers themselves in massage oil and lies across the naked body of another person and rubs their bodies together, aiming for maximum contact. This type of service can be part of sex work, and may be illegal in many places.

Where to massage for anxiety?

Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States – 24/7, free, confidential. Crisis Text Line (CTL) is here for you. A live, trained volunteer Crisis Counselor receives the text and responds, all from our secure online platform. The volunteer Crisis Counselor will help you move from a hot moment to a cool calm.

How do you know if a massage therapist is good?

Check credentials.

Make sure the massage therapist you are considering has the proper credentials. He or she should be certified or licensed by a recognized organization. Check to see if the organization requires continuing education or if it has a code of ethics.

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