Postpone for fever or contagious illness
If you are unwell with fever or a contagious illness, postpone the appointment. This protects both you and the therapist and gives your body time to recover.
Do not massage an acute injury or open wound
New injuries, suspected fractures, fresh surgical areas, burns, active skin infections, and open wounds require appropriate care. Do not request firm pressure directly over them.
Seek assessment for unexplained swelling
New one-sided swelling, warmth, redness, or pain in an arm or leg can require urgent assessment. Chest pain, sudden breathlessness, coughing blood, or collapse are emergency warning signs. Do not book massage first.
Ask before vigorous or deep-tissue massage
People with bleeding disorders, low platelets, fragile bones, or blood-thinning medication may need to avoid forceful massage or obtain qualified medical advice. Pregnancy and significant health conditions can also require modifications from an appropriately trained provider.
First-session deep tissue
Deep tissue can be introduced conservatively. A first appointment does not need maximum pressure. If you are unsure whether firm work is appropriate, choose a lighter session or obtain medical advice first.
Soreness after a session
Mild temporary tenderness can occur after firmer work, but severe, worsening, neurological, or unexpected symptoms should not be dismissed as normal. Seek suitable assessment.
Massage should not delay care
If symptoms concern you, contact a qualified health professional. A massage therapist should not diagnose the condition through WhatsApp or promise that massage will treat it.
Sources
NCCIH: Massage Therapy - What You Need to Know
NCCIH: Complementary Health Approaches for Chronic Pain - Safety
Cambridge University Hospitals: DVT and pulmonary embolism warning signs
When massage is appropriate, compare services or use the booking page.