Risks of massage

Most people can benefit from massage. However, massage may not be appropriate if you have:

• Bleeding disorders or take blood-thinning medication
• Burns or healing wounds
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Infections
• Broken bones (fractures)
• Severe osteoporosis
• A very low platelet count (severe thrombocytopenia)

Discuss the pros and cons of massage with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant or if you have cancer or unexplained pain.

Some forms of massage can leave you feeling a bit sore the next day. But massage shouldn't ordinarily be painful or uncomfortable. If any part of your massage doesn't feel right or is painful, speak up right away. Most serious problems come from too much pressure during massage.