QuestionHow can the following be contra-indications to scalp massage?
- Heart and Circulation Problems
- Epilepsy
- Skin Disease/Skin Disorders
- Cuts and Abrasions
- Product Allergies
- Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy Treatment
- Medical Advice
- Recent Scar Tissue
- Recent Injuries to Treatment Area
Thanks Chloe
AnswerHi Chloe,
It would be safer if you get an 'all clear' from a GP prior to treatment for these conditions.
It differs from country to country, but I would ask the client to sign a consent form which will protect you from litigation should there be the need for any.
Kind regards
Jeremy
Hi Chloe,
Thanks for your question!
I'll break up the answer in order of condition.
- Heart and Circulation Problems
If the client is on medications (Especially anti-coagulants) for heart and circulation disorders, bleeding and bruising could occur. Since massage is also known to lower blood pressure, anti hypertensive drugs used to lower blood pressure could cause the patient to faint during treatment.
- Epilepsy
A fit could be triggered during therapy if the client feels uncomfortable.
- Skin Disease/Skin Disorders
Some skin diseases are contagious. Also massage can cause eczema and psoriasis symptoms to get out of control since friction is used during massage.
- Cuts and Abrasions
A healing wound/cut/abrasion could be re-opened during massage.
- Product Allergies
A sample patch of massage oil and/or essential oil should be applied in an inconspicuous area before therapy to exclude allergies. Also if the allergy is smell induced or if the client suffers from hay fever or asthma there is a possibility that an asthmatic attack could occur since most oils are derived from plants/flowers.
- Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy Treatment
Chemotherapy: there is a possibility of aromatherapy oils reacting with chemotherapy. No studies have proved that massage is safe in cancer clients or if the cancer could spread to other parts of the body.
**Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy has an effect on the skin by creating a burning rash which is very dry. It is uncomfortable for the client to receive massage whilst on radiotherapy.**
- Medical Advice
Usually it is not advisable to go against the order of doctors
- Recent Scar Tissue
If scar tissue is fresh, a few days for the area to heal should be allowed. Then it is possible to use gentle massage to promote circulation and healing.
- Recent Injuries to Treatment Area
If you're asking about fractures or deep lacerations, treat as scar tissue above.
One more contraindication: Fever. Its uncomfortable to receive massage when the client has a fever and there is also a possibility that the fever will rise due to the body getting warm.
If you have any further questions, kindly let me know.
Kind regards
Jeremy Lanfranco
