Massage Therapy After a Stroke: Contraindications & Safety

Question
Dear Christopher,

I am about to take on my first client who wants a full body holistic massage. She had a stroke four years ago and is on a variety of blood thinning medications including Atenolol, Benzofluoride and Aspirin and I would like to check with you that it is ok to go ahead and give a full body massage without causing any risk to my client. Your answer can be as in depth as you feel necessary as I want to be able to provide the best service I can.
I look forward to receiving your reply.

Best wishes,

Liz Cuthbert.

Answer
Greetings Liz. You can give the client a full body massage. The only thing that you have to worry about is bruising. During your intake interview, find out how easily she bruises; is she so sensitive that she will bruise for no reason, does she hardly ever bruise, etc. This gives you an idea on how to vary your pressure. Since blood thinners work by slowing the clotting process, you have to be careful to not add to the bruising by lightening your pressure. The more easily that she bruises the lighter you have to go. Conversely, if she hardly ever bruises, you can treat her like any other client. And make sure to go extremely lightly on any areas suffering neuralgia (numbness).

Please feel free to write me back with any other questions you may have, Liz.

Sincerely,
Christopher Hall