What Precautions Should Be Taken Before Getting A Massage?

Posted on Sun, 23 Mar 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 23 Mar 2014 Answered on

Mon, 14 Apr 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I would like to know in terms of pain of someone who goes gym, what type of pain cannot be massaged? What type of scar cannot be massaged? If someone has MS and symptoms are various, are they okay to have a massage?

Answered by Dr. Mukesh Chugh (2 hours later)

Brief Answer: Massage is passive therapy to be use with care Detailed Answer: Hi Thanks for writing your query. I dr.chugh orthopaedic surgeon. Massage treatment is non-invasive, relaxing and natural. It is therefore generally considered a safe treatment for most people. However when you are in a gym following are the condition when one should avoid massage- Periosteitis that is inflammation to the sheath of bone, tendon and muscle rupture, Thrombosis of vein, skin infection like fungal, bacterial and viral. Contusion massaging may lead to myositis ossificans that is bone formation in muscle. For scar one should wait 2-3 week for scar maturation like after total knee replacement. Hypertrophic scar (keloid) may increase on massage. As far as multiple sclerosis is concerned my advice would be massage along with the exercise. The Swedish massages, which use light pressure and long strokes and the exercises to be done to increase strength, stretch, endurance and balance. Acupressure is also an option. The therapy is similar to the traditional Chinese practice of acupuncture, but without the needles and may be combined with massage to target specific areas of the body that are tight or painful. “Massage is a passive therapy, which is great for relaxation and stress reduction, but for any real changes, you need active therapy. Make sure to check with your doctor before starting massage therapy, especially if you have had an edema, osteoporosis, liver or spleen enlargement, a recent injury or are pregnant. Take care and I shall be glad to answer any further query. Regards Dr.chugh

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Mukesh Chugh (7 hours later)

Hello Okay thank you for that advice , I will get back to you with more questions if I have them.

Answered by Dr. Mukesh Chugh (5 hours later)

Brief Answer: Thanks Detailed Answer: Hi It’s good to see you again. I am glad that you liked my reply, thanks.Hope to see you soon with your query. Take care Regards Dr.chugh http://bit.ly/drmchugh

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T