Massage if extensive and has generated a profusion of literature. Some of the historical facts are common knowledge, and the need to repeat them could almost be contested.

The practice of massage dates back to prehistoric times, with origins in India. China, Japan, Greece and Rome. Massage has been mentioned in literature dating back to the ancient times, with the earliest recorded reference appearing in the NEI Ching, a Chinese medical text written before 2500 BC. Later writings on massage came from scholars and physicians such as Hippocrates in the fifth century BC and Avicenna and Ambroise Pare in the 10th and 16the centuries AD, respectively.

Contraindications

The question of contraindications to massage goes beyond a straight forward list, the reason being that, in theory, massage can be applied in most conditions, either to a region of the body or for relaxation. In practice, however there are times when it is unlikely to be effective and is therefore best avoided. It may also be the case that whilst massage is not strictly contraindicated, the presenting signs and symptoms are indicative of pathology and consequently require examination by a doctor before any massage treatment is applied. On the other hand certain illnesses or symptoms, this can be either local or systemic. Contrain dications indicate that massage should not be carried out on the region affected by the condition. Systemic contraindications are those conditions which affect the whole body or system of the body, Contraindications to massage are considered for each region of the massage are considered for each region of the body and for specific conditions.

Probable contraindications

There follow examples of conditions which may require investigation prior to massage.

Depression : In some case of clinical depression the sedating effect of massage can exacerbate the lethargic state of the patient. Treatment therefore should only be carried out with the doctor’s approval.

Heart problems : Any potential condition or pathology of the heart necessitates full investigations and massage should only be carried out once a medical diagnosis has been made.

Frequent colds : A weakened immune system may manifest in a number of symptoms such as recurrent viral infections (cold, flu and so forth). Whist massage helps the immune system; a weakened system can be caused by some undergoing pathology that would need to be diagnosed before any massage treatment.

PMS : PMT is in fact a syndrome of symptoms, some of which can be alleviated with massage. The condition may, however be due to hormonal imbalances and therefore required a diagnosis if it is severe.

Cystitis : This inflammatory condition, while common enough, can extend to the ureters, bladder and kidneys and massage in these areas would be contraindicated. A full diagnosis may be required before massage is carried out.

Loss of weight : A sudden or unexplained loss of weight may be indicative of cancer and therefore requires investigations.

High BP : The aetiology of high blood pressure should always be diagnosed by a doctor any treatment is carried out. Although massage can help reduce high blood pressure when it is stress related, it is still given as an adjunct to other treatments, In some case it may not be of benefit, for instance, if there is serious underlying pathology of the brain or heart.

DM : It is not nor unsafe to massage a diabetic patient, but it is important to bear in mind complications suhc as neuropathy, degenerative changes in the blood vessels and increased susceptibility to infection. Weakening of the connective tissues e.g. fragility of the skin may aloes be present.

Constipations : This condition may be due to such pathology as twisted intestines or carcinomas and the cause should always be established prior to any treatment.

Steroids : The use of steroid may have a wakening effect on the connective tissues and, if extensive a render massage unsafe.

Corticosteroids : can also impair the immune system and the subject is prone to infections. Massage should only be performed when there is no risk of contamination.

Jaundice : One form of jaundice is referred to as prehepatic jaundice. This is when there is abnormal destruction of RBC or some bleeding disorder. Massage in this case is carried out with extreme care the patient may be susceptible to bruising. Hepatic jaundice may be of viral aetiology, in which case massage may be contraindicated.