QuestionHi Kathryn,
I'm currently taking a massage therapy class and I'm also a phlebotomist and we were discussing anticoagulants. I was wondering if there are other contraindications besides the bruising and bleeding, and if there are special circumstances where it would be okay for someone who is taking anticoagulants to receive a massage.
Thank You,
Edie
AnswerHi Edie,
Thank you for your question.
Over the years I have not caused bruises for anyone taking blood thinners by providing massage. I have, however, seen tons of bruises from people running into something. Work around bruises rather than on them.
I don't think there are contraindications except to be thoughtful and pay attention to technique.
There are many subtle techniques to use with people who are taking anticoagulants but I haven't had any issues doing 'regular' massage. Warm first; go a little deeper and then back to light pressure.
Massage provides an enormous amount of benefit even to people on various medications such as this.
Thank you for asking,
Kathryn
