Please take time to read before your appointment

 

Consultation's are there for your health and safety to ensure you receive a safe, effective treatment. They are also in place to protect the therapist.  Honesty is vital in this process, and during the in-depth consultation prior to treatment, you will be asked to detail your medical history.

The three types of contraindication

 

  • Total- when treatment is not suitable at all
  • Medical- when medical advice is sought and permission is received before treatment can start
  • Local- when the treatment can be done but avoiding a particular area and altering the approach e.g. using a lighter touch

If you have a history of or are currently dealing with a serious health condition, please check with your GP or Medical Specialist prior to seeking therapy. It is essential to fully inform your therapist of any health conditions that may affect your treatment.

Total Contraindication

  • Fever
  • Contagious diseases, including any cold or flu, even mild ones
  • Acute infectious conditions e.g. Hepatitis A, recent immunisation
  • Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Severe unstable hypertension (high blood pressure not under medical supervision)
  • Recent operations/surgery (clear with GP for post-surgical treatments)
  • Acute injuries – for at least the first 48 hours
  • Infectious skin conditions – head lice, scabies, ringworm, impetigo
  • Recently eaten a heavy meal
  • Under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Severe Haemophilia (if mild, consult your GP for permission)
  • Severe Anaemia (fine for mild anaemia)
  • Circulatory problems such as blood clots, thrombosis, DVT
  • Advanced Cirrhosis of the Liver
  • Psychological conditions such as Bipolar, schizophrenia and paranoid conditions may be aggravated by touch and should be referred to a professional.
  • Oedema – if a result of; liver or kidney disease, infection or trauma, toxaemia or heart failure.

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Medical Contraindications

  • Following any form of recent major surgery
  • Heart problems – if you have a history of heart problems, angina or strokes or are fitted with a pacemaker
  • DVT (6 months after diagnosis treatment can go ahead with permission)
  • Taking blood thinning medication e.g. Warfarin or Heparin – at risk of clots and may bruise more easily which can lead to internal bleeding
  • Aneurysm
  • Oedema
  • Cancer – if you are currently undergoing any form of treatment
  • Bells Palsy, trapped nerves
  • Epilepsy, depending on how stable/ unstable it is
  • High blood pressure – if not on medication to control it or if only recently been diagnosed and yet to stabilise
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Osteoporosis
  • MS
  • Diabetes
  • TB
  • Emphysema
  • Severe, uncontrolled Asthma (if asthma is being managed then GP permission is not needed.  Essential oil use may be restricted to avoid triggering an attack)
  • Thickening of arteries

Local Contraindication

  • Varicose veins
  • Phlebitis
  • Acute neuritis
  • Undiagnosed lumps or bumps
  • 48 hours post any anti-inflammatory injection
  • Cuts/Abrasions
  • Sunburn
  • Undiagnosed pain
  • Sprains/localised injuries/strains/areas of pain
  • Acute Haematoma/ bruising (once area has lightened in colour – light massage is beneficial)
  • Recent scar tissue
  • Compound fractures, simple fractures – do not treat at all for first 2 months
  • Acute stages of Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis, gout
  • Blisters
  • Eczema – if sore or infected
  • Psoriasis – if sore or infected
  • Acne
  • Localised contagious skin conditions; Warts & Verrucae, Coldsores, Athletes Foot
  • Cysts/Fibroids – if painful
  • Abdominal hernias