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.