When is it NOT ok to have a massage?

It’s important to know that there are some times when we can’t massage you or we need clearance from your medical practitioner. Because your safety & wellbeing comes first at SAGE.

Total Contraindications

When you have any of these conditions, please do not book a massage:

• Fever
• Contagious diseases, including any cold or flu, no matter how mild it may seem
• Under the influence of drugs or alcohol-including prescription painmedication
• Recent operations or acute injuries
• Neuritis
• Skin diseases

Local Contraindications

The therapist can massage but not over any areas affected by:

• Varicose veins
• Undiagnosed lumps or bumps
• Bruising
• Cuts
• Abrasions
• Sunburn
• Undiagnosed pain
• Inflammation, including arthritis

Medical Contraindications

If you suffer from any of the following conditions, massage can only take place once it has been approved before your session by your medical practitioner.

• Cardio-vascular conditions (thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension,heart conditions)
• Any condition already being treated by a medical practitioner
• Oedema
• Psoriasis or eczema
• High blood pressure
• Osteoporosis
• Cancer
• Nervous or psychotic conditions
• Heart problems, angina, those with pacemakers
• Epilepsy
• Diabetes
• Bell’s palsy, trapped or pinched nerves
• Gynecological infections

Does a contraindication mean that treatment cannot take place? Not always. In fact, massage can be very therapeutic for many medical conditions. However, in the above cases it is best to have advice from your medical practitioner. Massage therapists, unless they are also qualified doctors, may not, under law, attempt to diagnose a condition. If you are in doubt, please call and speak to one of our receptionists who will be happy to answer your questions.