MÉTODO DE SIMULACIÓN

conditions – medical advice should

always be sought before massaging a client with a severe heart condition or circulatory problem, as the increased circulation from the massage may overburden the heart and can increase the risk of a thrombus or embolus. If medical advice indicates

massage is advisable, it is recommended that a lighter massage is given, of a shorter duration initially.

I thrombosis/embolism – always seek

medical advice before massaging a client with a history of thrombosis or embolism, as there is a risk that the blood clot could become detached and be carried to another part of the body where it could obstruct the flow of blood to a vital organ. If medical

advice indicates massage is advisable, it is recommended that a lighter massage is given, of a shorter duration initially. I high blood pressure – clients with

high blood pressure should have medical referral prior to massage, even in they are on prescribed medication, due to their susceptibility to form clots. Clients on anti- hypertensive medication may be prone to postural hypotension and may feel light headed and dizzy after treatment. Therapists are advised to carefully monitor a client’s reaction

and advise clients to get up slowly from the chair following treatment. If

medical advice indicates massage is advisable, techniques applied are generally soothing and relaxing.

I low blood pressure – care should be

taken with a client suffering from low blood pressure when sitting or standing up after massage due to the fact they may experience dizziness and could fall.

I dysfunction of the nervous system

– clients with any dysfunction of the nervous system should be referred to their GP before treatment is given. A light relaxing massage may be indicated in the case of a client with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease as massage may help to reduce spasms and involuntary movements and reduce rigidity and stiffness. Always seek

medical advice before offering treatment. I epilepsy – always refer to the client’s

GP regarding the type and nature of epilepsy the client may suffer from. Caution is advised due to the complexity of this condition and the risk that deep relaxation or overstimulation could provoke a convulsion (although this has never been proven in practice). As some types

of epilepsy may be triggered by smells, care should be taken with choice of oils or medium.

I diabetes – this is a condition which

requires medical advice, as some clients with diabetes may be prone to arteriosclerosis, high blood pressure and oedema. Pressure should be

carefully monitored and administered carefully, due to any loss in sensory nerve function resulting in the client being unable to give accurate feedback regarding pressure. If the client is

receiving insulin by injection, care should be taken to avoid massage on recent injection sites. Clients should have their necessary medications with them when they attend for treatment, in the event of an emergency. I cancer – medical advice should

always be sought before massaging a client with a cancerous condition. There is a risk of certain types of cancer spreading through the lymphatic system; massage is also thought to aid in the metasis of the cancer. It is unlikely that gentle massage can cause cancer to spread through the stimulation of lymph flow; however, it is important to always obtain advice from the consultant/medical team concerning the type of cancer and the extent of the disease. Once medical advice has been sought, massage may help in relaxing the body and supporting the immune system. It may also be used in palliative care (therapy that eases or reduces pain or other symptoms).

If massaging a cancer patient always avoid massage over areas of the body receiving radiation therapy, close to tumour sites and areas of skin cancer. It is usual to offer short light massage, which is beneficial in relaxing the client and supporting the immune system.

I recent operations – depending on

the nature of the operation and the area/s affected, it may be necessary to seek medical advice before

proceeding with treatment. If a client has recently undergone surgery to the head and neck, Indian Head Massage should be avoided as it may interfere with the healing process. Medical advice is often necessary to establish when the area has completely recovered.

I osteoporosis – due to the fact that

bones can break easily and vertebrae can collapse with this condition, it is advisable to seek medical advice before giving treatment. If medical

advice indicates treatment is advisable, care needs to be taken to ensure comfortable client positioning; avoid excessive joint movement and apply a lighter pressure.

Conditions that Present as

Localised Contraindications

as the condition may be worsened. Some skin conditions such as eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis should be treated as a localised contraindication as affected areas may be hypersensitive and the condition may be exacerbated by massage.

I recent scar tissue – massage should

only be applied once the tissue is fully healed and can withstand pressure. Gentle frictions may be applied over healed scar tissue in order to help break down adhesions.

I severe bruising, open cuts or abrasions – these should be treated

as localised contraindications, and if presented in the treatment areas they should be avoided.

I undiagnosed lumps, bumps and swellings – the client should be

referred to their GP for a diagnosis. Massage may increase the susceptibility to damage in the area by virtue of pressure and motion.