Are there any reasons why I can't have massage?
First of all, if you have just suffered a sports injury such as a sprain or strain, follow the RICE principle for the initial days before coming for a massage.
Other than that, almost anyone can have a massage treatment, but there are certain conditions that mean you either can't have massage or that you need to check with your GP first. Every new client will go through a full consultation on their first visit to make sure any treatments are suitable, but to save you time and energy, here's a short checklist. You should not have massage if:
- you have any kind of a viral infection, including fever or a sore throat
- you have severe sunburn
- you have a tumour, cancer or a blood clotting disorder (haemophilia)
- you are in the first three months of pregnancy
- you have a broken or fractured bone or an open wound.
There are also other conditions that you will need to notify me about, but these will usually not prevent you from having massage and will be covered in the consultation:
- If you have asthma or diabetes, please bring your medication with you - but don't worry, this is just a precaution.
- Under-16s will need the written permission of their parent or guardian before having treatment. It's also strongly recommended that their parent or guardian attends the appointments.
- If you're currently being treated for the same condition by another therapist or doctor, you will need their approval before coming for a massage to make sure it doesn't interfere with any other ongoing treatment.
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