Contraindications for Massage Therapy
Fever
Contagious Diseases (e.g., flu, COVID-19, cold, strep throat)
Skin Infections (e.g., ringworm, impetigo, shingles, MRSA)
Severe Cardiovascular Conditions (e.g., recent heart attack, uncontrolled hypertension)
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or Blood Clots (Locally Contraindicated)
Uncontrolled Diabetes with Neuropathy
Recent Surgery (within 6 weeks, unless cleared by a doctor)
Acute Injuries (e.g., fractures, severe sprains, open wounds)
Active Cancer (without doctor’s approval)
Severe, Uncontrolled Hypertension
Intoxication (Drugs or Alcohol)
Hemophilia or Blood Clotting Disorders
Precautionary Conditions for Massage Therapy (Massage may be modified or require medical clearance)
Pregnancy-May need position adjustments and medical clearance
Varicose Veins – Direct pressure can worsen the condition.
Osteoporosis – Deep pressure may cause fractures.
High or Low Blood Pressure (managed but unstable) – May need position adjustments.
Recent Injury or Surgery (beyond 6 weeks) – Light massage may be allowed with doctor approval.
Lymphedema – Requires a specialized lymphatic massage approach.
Chronic Skin Conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis) – Avoid areas with flare-ups or irritation.
Absolute Contraindications (Assisted Stretching Should Be Avoided)
Recent Fractures, Sprains, or Strains (Acute Phase) – Stretching can worsen injuries and delay healing.
Severe Osteoporosis or Osteopenia – Risk of fractures due to increased bone fragility.
Joint Hypermobility Syndromes (e.g., Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Marfan Syndrome) – Overstretching can lead to joint instability and dislocations.
Severe Herniated Disc or Spinal Instability – Stretching may exacerbate nerve compression and pain.
Post-Surgical Recovery (Within 6-8 Weeks Without Medical Clearance) – Incisions, scar tissue, and healing tissues may be compromised.
Severe Arthritis (Rheumatoid or Osteoarthritis in Flare-Up Stage) – Stretching may cause pain and inflammation.
Recent Stroke or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) – Stretching can affect circulation and increase risk of complications.
Severe Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Uncontrolled Diabetes-Related Nerve Damage) – Reduced sensation increases the risk of overstretching and injury.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or History of Blood Clots – Stretching can dislodge a clot, increasing the risk of embolism.
Severe Cardiovascular Conditions (e.g., Uncontrolled Hypertension, Heart Failure, Arrhythmias) – Certain stretches may impact blood pressure and circulation.
Severe Sciatica or Nerve Compression Disorders – Improper stretching can worsen nerve pain and inflammation.
Uncontrolled Diabetes with Poor Circulation – Increased risk of tissue damage due to impaired healing.
Active Skin Infections, Open Wounds, or Recent Burns in the Treatment Area – Risk of irritation, spreading infection, or delayed healing.
Acute Illness (Fever, Flu, COVID-19, or Contagious Illnesses) – Risk of spreading illness and worsening symptoms.
Severe Chronic Pain Conditions (e.g., Fibromyalgia, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) in Flare-Up – Stretching may increase pain sensitivity.
Precautionary Conditions (Use with Caution or Modify Treatment)
Mild Osteoporosis or Osteoarthritis – Gentle stretching may be beneficial, but excessive force should be avoided.
Mild Hypermobility (Without Connective Tissue Disorder) – Must avoid overstretching to prevent joint instability.
Recent Soft Tissue Injuries (Beyond Acute Phase but Not Fully Healed) – Gradual stretching should be introduced carefully.
Mild Sciatica or Nerve Pain – Certain stretches may relieve symptoms, while others may worsen them.
Post-Surgical Recovery (Beyond 6 Weeks With Clearance) – Assisted stretching should be introduced gradually under medical guidance.
Herniated Disc (Without Severe Symptoms) – Specific stretches may help, but others can worsen the condition.
Varicose Veins or Circulatory Issues – Compression or stretching of affected areas may cause discomfort.
Recent Botox or Filler Treatments (Within 48 Hours) – Excessive movement may alter results or increase bruising.
Migraine or Chronic Headache Conditions – Neck and upper back stretching may trigger or relieve symptoms.
Pregnancy (First Trimester or High-Risk Pregnancy Without Clearance) – Certain stretches may place stress on the abdomen or pelvis.
Absolute Contraindications (Compression Therapy Should Be Avoided)
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or Recent Blood Clots – Compression can dislodge clots, increasing the risk of embolism.
Severe Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) or Critical Limb Ischemia – Compression can further restrict already limited blood flow.
Uncontrolled Hypertension (Severely High Blood Pressure) – Compression may elevate blood pressure further.
Severe Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) – Compression may increase fluid retention in the lungs and strain the heart.
Severe Varicose Veins with Active Ulcers or Infections – Increased pressure can worsen skin breakdown or infections.
Severe Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Uncontrolled Diabetes-Related Nerve Damage) – Reduced sensation increases the risk of excessive compression and injury.
Acute or Severe Nerve Compression Disorders (e.g., Sciatica, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome) – Compression may exacerbate nerve entrapment symptoms.
Severe Osteoporosis with Fracture Risk – Compression could increase the risk of injury in fragile bones.
Untreated or Severe Lymphedema Without Medical Supervision – May worsen swelling if used improperly.
Active Skin Infections, Open Wounds, or Severe Dermatitis – Compression can aggravate skin conditions and delay healing.
Recent Surgery (Involving the Treated Area, Without Medical Clearance) – Compression may disrupt healing tissues.
Pregnancy (High-Risk or Without Medical Clearance) – Some compression therapies may impact circulation in sensitive cases.
Uncontrolled Autoimmune Conditions (e.g., Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis in Flare-Up) – Inflammation may worsen with excessive pressure.
Precautionary Contraindications (Use with Caution or Modify Treatment)
Mild to Moderate Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) – Lower compression levels may be safe but require supervision.
Mild Hypertension (Controlled with Medication) – Blood pressure should be monitored during treatment.
Mild Varicose Veins Without Ulcers – Compression can help, but improper use may cause discomfort.
Recent Soft Tissue Injuries (Bruising, Minor Sprains, or Muscle Strains) – Compression should be used gently to avoid excessive pressure.
Mild Lymphedema or Fluid Retention – Must use appropriate compression levels to avoid worsening symptoms.
History of DVT (But No Current Clots) – Requires medical clearance to ensure safety.
Diabetes with Mild Neuropathy – Compression should be applied carefully to prevent excessive pressure.
Post-Surgical Recovery (Beyond 6 Weeks, with Medical Clearance) – Compression may be beneficial but should be used as directed by a healthcare provider.
Chronic Pain Conditions (e.g., Fibromyalgia, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) – Some individuals may find compression painful or uncomfortable.
Contraindications for Contrast Therapy
Cardiovascular Conditions (Uncontrolled Hypertension, Heart Disease, Arrhythmias, Recent Heart Attack/Stroke)
Uncontrolled High or Low Blood Pressure – Extreme temperature changes can cause dangerous fluctuations.
Severe Respiratory Conditions (e.g., COPD, Severe Asthma, Pneumonia) – Heat may worsen breathing issues; cold can trigger bronchospasms.
Active or Recent Blood Clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism) – Rapid temperature changes can dislodge clots, increasing stroke or embolism risk.
Uncontrolled Diabetes with Neuropathy – Reduced sensation can prevent detection of burns (sauna) or frostbite (cold plunge).
Acute Illness (Fever, Flu, Infection, Cold, COVID-19) – Contrast therapy can worsen symptoms or spread illness.
Epilepsy or Seizure Disorders – Sudden temperature shifts can trigger seizures in susceptible individuals.
Pregnancy (Without Medical Clearance) – Core temperature changes can affect fetal development.
Severe Raynaud’s Disease – Cold exposure can trigger extreme vasospasms and pain.
Recent Surgery (Within 6 Weeks Without Medical Clearance) – Temperature extremes may interfere with healing and recovery.
Infrared Specific Contraindications
Active Skin Conditions (e.g., Severe Eczema, Psoriasis, Open Wounds, Sunburns) – Heat may worsen irritation or delay healing.
Severe Dehydration or Heat Sensitivity – Can cause dizziness, fainting, or heat exhaustion.
Use of Alcohol or Recreational Drugs Before Sauna – Increases risk of dehydration, dizziness, and cardiovascular strain.
Hemophilia or Bleeding Disorders – Heat can increase circulation and prolong bleeding.
Cold Plunge Specific Contraindications
Cold Urticaria (Cold Allergy) – Can cause hives, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
Hypothyroidism (Severe or Uncontrolled) – Cold exposure can slow metabolism further and worsen fatigue.
Severe Joint or Muscle Injuries (Acute Sprains, Fractures, or Post-Surgical Recovery) – Cold exposure may delay healing in some cases.
Precautionary Conditions (proceed with caution or modify treatment)
Mild or Controlled Hypertension – Short exposure may be tolerated but should be monitored.
Autoimmune Conditions (e.g., Lupus, Multiple Sclerosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis) – Heat or cold exposure may trigger flare-ups.
Migraines or Severe Headaches – Sudden temperature shifts may trigger or worsen symptoms.
Thyroid Disorders (e.g., Hashimoto’s, Hyperthyroidism, Hypothyroidism) – Cold exposure can affect hormone balance; sauna may overstimulate metabolism.
Varicose Veins or Circulatory Issues – Sauna may worsen swelling, while cold can cause discomfort.
Hormonal Conditions (e.g., PCOS, Adrenal Fatigue, Menopause, Endometriosis) – Heat may exacerbate symptoms in some individuals.
Recent Use of Botox, Fillers, or Skin Treatments (e.g., Chemical Peels, Microneedling, Laser Therapy) – Heat can speed up breakdown of injectables; cold may cause irritation.
Chronic Pain Conditions (e.g., Fibromyalgia, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome) – Temperature extremes may initially worsen symptoms before relief occurs.
History of Fainting or Dizziness (Vasovagal Response, POTS, Orthostatic Hypotension) – Temperature changes can alter blood pressure.
Contraindications for Cupping Therapy
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or Blood Clots (Locally Contraindicated) – Suction can dislodge clots, increasing the risk of stroke or embolism.
Severe Varicose Veins or Phlebitis (Inflamed Veins) (Locally Contraindicated)– Cupping may worsen vein damage and inflammation.
Severe Anemia or Blood Disorders (e.g., Hemophilia, Leukemia, Low Platelet Count) – Increased risk of excessive bruising and bleeding.
Uncontrolled Hypertension (Severely High Blood Pressure) – May cause dizziness or cardiovascular strain.
Severe Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) – Increased circulation can overload the heart.
Severe Osteoporosis or Recent Bone Fractures – Risk of injury due to pressure on weakened bones.
Severe Neuropathy or Nerve Damage (e.g., Uncontrolled Diabetic Neuropathy, Multiple Sclerosis, Stroke-related Damage) – Reduced sensation increases injury risk.
Recent Surgeries (Within 6-8 Weeks Without Medical Clearance) – May disrupt healing tissues.
Active Skin Infections, Open Wounds, or Burns – Can spread infection and delay healing.
Severe Eczema, Psoriasis, or Dermatitis (in the Treatment Area) – Cupping may worsen irritation and cause flare-ups.
Lymphedema (Without Medical Clearance) – May cause excessive swelling if not properly managed.
Pregnancy (Abdominal or Lower Back Cupping Without Medical Clearance) – Can stimulate uterine contractions.
Uncontrolled Diabetes with Poor Circulation – Increased risk of delayed healing and excessive bruising.
Fever, Flu, or Acute Illness – May worsen symptoms or weaken the immune system.
Active Cancer or Recent Cancer Treatment (Without Medical Clearance) – Increased circulation could interfere with treatment.
Precautionary Conditions (Use with caution or modify treatment)
Mild to Moderate Hypertension (Controlled with Medication) – Monitor closely to avoid excessive blood pressure changes.
Mild to Moderate Varicose Veins (Without Ulcers or Inflammation) – Avoid direct cupping over affected areas.
Recent Botox or Filler Injections (Within 48 Hours in the Treatment Area) – Cupping can alter results or increase bruising.
Thin or Fragile Skin (e.g., Elderly Clients, Long-Term Steroid Use) – Use low suction to avoid skin damage.
Migraine or Chronic Headache Conditions – Cupping may trigger or relieve symptoms.
Autoimmune Conditions (e.g., Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromyalgia) – May cause flare-ups in sensitive individuals.
Mild Anemia or Blood Disorders (Without Active Bleeding Issues) – Monitor for excessive bruising.
Chronic Pain Conditions (e.g., Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, Fibromyalgia) – Some clients may find cupping painful rather than relieving.
Post-Surgical Recovery (Beyond 6 Weeks, With Medical Clearance) – Light cupping may support recovery but should be used cautiously.
Hormonal Conditions (e.g., PCOS, Endometriosis, Thyroid Disorders) – Effects on circulation and inflammation should be considered.
Absolute Contraindications (Red Light Therapy Should Be Avoided)
Active or Recent Cancer in the Treatment Area – While red light therapy may support overall healing, using it directly on active tumors is not recommended without medical approval.
Pregnancy (Abdominal/Pelvic Treatment Without Medical Clearance) – Effects on fetal development are not fully studied.
Epilepsy or Light-Induced Seizures – Though light therapy doesn’t typically flicker, bright lights can trigger seizures in photosensitive individuals.
Use of Photosensitizing Medications (e.g., Accutane, certain antibiotics, diuretics, NSAIDs, or chemotherapy drugs) – Can increase skin sensitivity and risk of burns.
Severe Cardiovascular Conditions (e.g., Uncontrolled Hypertension, Pacemakers, Arrhythmias) – Light exposure may affect circulation
Active Skin Infections or Open Wounds in the Treatment Area – May worsen bacterial or viral infections like herpes, impetigo, or MRSA.
Thyroid Disorders (for Direct Neck/Throat Exposure) – Red light can affect thyroid function, which may require medical oversight.
Active Bleeding or Recent Hemorrhage – Red light can enhance circulation and may prolong bleeding.
Severe Eye Conditions (e.g., Retinal Disease, Post-Eye Surgery Recovery) – Direct light exposure without proper eyewear may worsen conditions.
Recent Surgery in the Treatment Area (Within 2 Weeks Without Clearance) – Healing tissues may be sensitive, and improper use could interfere with recovery.
Relative Contraindications (Use with Caution or Modify Treatment)
Autoimmune Conditions (e.g., Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis) – While light therapy may reduce inflammation, it can also stimulate immune activity, potentially causing flare-ups.
Diabetes with Neuropathy – Reduced sensation may increase the risk of unintentional burns or overheating.
Migraines or Light Sensitivity – Red light may trigger headaches in light-sensitive individuals.
Hormonal Conditions (e.g., PCOS, Thyroid Disorders, Endometriosis) – Red light can influence hormone regulation, so medical guidance may be needed.
Recent Use of Botox or Fillers – Heat exposure may cause unwanted migration or faster breakdown of injectable treatments.
Active Acne Treatment (e.g., Retinoids, Benzoyl Peroxide, Chemical Peels) – May cause increased skin sensitivity or irritation.
Hyperpigmentation Disorders (e.g., Melasma, Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) – Red light can increase melanin activity, possibly worsening discoloration.
Contraindications for Localized Cryotherapy
Raynaud’s Disease or Cold-Induced Vasospasms – Cold exposure can cause extreme constriction of blood vessels, leading to pain and tissue damage.
Severe Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) or Poor Circulation – Cryotherapy may further restrict already compromised blood flow.
Severe Hypertension (Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure) – Extreme cold can trigger dangerous blood pressure spikes.
History of Blood Clots (DVT, Pulmonary Embolism, Stroke, or Thrombosis) – Cold exposure may increase clotting risks.
Severe Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) – Sudden temperature changes can overload the cardiovascular system.
Severe Peripheral Neuropathy (e.g., Diabetic Neuropathy, Multiple Sclerosis, Stroke-related Nerve Damage) – Reduced sensation increases the risk of frostbite or excessive exposure.
Recent or Acute Nerve Injuries (e.g., Sciatica, Pinched Nerves, Nerve Compression Syndromes) – Cold may worsen nerve irritation.
Severe Osteoporosis or Bone Conditions with High Fracture Risk – Cold exposure may tighten muscles and increase fracture risk.
Recent Surgeries (Within 6-8 Weeks Without Medical Clearance) – Cryotherapy may delay healing or interfere with post-surgical inflammation.
Cold Urticaria (Cold Allergy) – Cold exposure may cause hives, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
Severe Skin Sensitivity, Open Wounds, or Burns in the Treatment Area – Cold therapy can worsen irritation and delay healing.
Severe Eczema, Psoriasis, or Skin Conditions in Flare-Up – May trigger excessive dryness, irritation, or pain.
Cryoglobulinemia (Cold-Sensitive Blood Disorder) – Can cause abnormal blood thickening and circulation issues.
Lymphedema (Without Medical Supervision) – May lead to excessive swelling or discomfort.
Pregnancy (Without Medical Clearance) – Effects of localized extreme cold on pregnancy are not well studied.
Uncontrolled Diabetes with Poor Circulation – Increased risk of frostbite, delayed healing, and tissue damage.
Fever, Flu, or Acute Illness – Cold exposure may worsen symptoms or weaken immune response.
Active Cancer or Recent Radiation Treatment (Without Medical Clearance) – Cryotherapy may interfere with treatment outcomes.
Precautionary Conditions (use with caution or modify treatment)
Mild to Moderate Hypertension (Controlled with Medication) – Monitor closely for blood pressure changes.
Varicose Veins or Poor Circulation (Without Open Ulcers) – Avoid direct cold exposure to affected areas.
Recent Botox or Filler Injections (Within 48 Hours in the Treatment Area) – Cold may cause undesired results or excessive bruising.
Thin or Fragile Skin (e.g., Elderly Clients, Long-Term Steroid Use) – Low-temperature exposure should be monitored closely.
Migraine or Chronic Headache Conditions – Cold therapy may trigger or relieve symptoms depending on individual sensitivity.
Autoimmune Conditions (e.g., Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Fibromyalgia) – Cold exposure may cause flare-ups in some individuals.
Mild Neuropathy (Without Complete Sensory Loss) – Requires careful monitoring to avoid overexposure.
Post-Surgical Recovery (Beyond 6 Weeks, With Medical Clearance) – May aid healing but should be used with proper guidelines.
Chronic Pain Conditions (e.g., Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, Fibromyalgia) – Cold therapy may worsen symptoms in some cases.
Hormonal Conditions (e.g., PCOS, Thyroid Disorders) – Cold exposure may have metabolic effects that require consideration.