What 5 Parts of the Body Are Not Allowed to Massage

Massage therapy is a hands‑on treatment that involves moving and pressing the soft tissues of the body to reduce stress, ease muscle tension, and promote relaxation and well‑being. It can help improve circulation, relieve pain, and support recovery from soreness and stiffness.

Even though massage offers many benefits, it isn’t always safe for every area of the body. Certain conditions or locations can make pressure or manipulation risky. Pressing on sensitive or compromised areas may delay healing, worsen an injury, or even cause a serious complication.

Understanding which body parts are not allowed to be massaged, and why — helps protect your health and ensures safe, effective treatment. Being aware of contraindications before applying pressure makes massage safer for everyone.

What Is Massage Contraindication?

A massage contraindication is a reason why a massage should not be done or must be changed to stay safe. It means massage could harm the person instead of helping. Therapists check for contraindications before treatment to protect health and avoid complications.

Definition of Contraindication in Massage Therapy

In massage therapy, a contraindication is a health condition, injury, or situation that makes massage risky. If a therapist ignores these risks, the massage could worsen pain, delay healing, or cause other problems.

Definition in Massage Therapy

In massage therapy, a contraindication is any factor that means massage may not be safe or appropriate. Therapists check for contraindications before treatment to protect the client’s health and ensure the session does more good than harm.

Difference Between Absolute and Local Contraindications

Massage contraindications fall into two main categories:

Absolute Contraindications

An absolute contraindication means massage should not be given anywhere on the body. This is because massage could seriously harm the person due to an unstable medical condition or active disease. For example, conditions like high fever, uncontrolled infection, and some serious heart or circulatory problems are considered absolute contraindications.

Local Contraindications

A local contraindication means massage should be avoided only in specific areas of the body. In these cases, the rest of the body might still be safe to work on, but pressure should not be applied over the affected spot. Examples include open wounds, bruises, varicose veins, or inflamed joints.

Why Therapists Screen Clients Before Treatment

Massage therapists always screen clients before treatment for several key reasons:

• To identify any health conditions that might make massage unsafe.
  
• To determine whether a condition requires full avoidance or only local modification.
  
• To decide what techniques, pressure, and areas are safe to work on.
  
• To protect clients from worsening symptoms or causing new injury.
  

This screening often includes a health questionnaire and a verbal discussion, so the therapist can make safe, informed decisions about massage care.

Part #1: Areas with Open Wounds or Broken Skin

Avoid massaging areas with open wounds or broken skin. Massage can slow healing and increase the risk of infection. These areas are especially vulnerable.

Examples of broken skin include:

• Cuts
  
• Scrapes
  
• Sores
  

Pressing on broken skin can push bacteria deeper into the wound. This may cause further damage and delay recovery.

Some skin conditions should also be avoided:

• Rashes
  
• Active pimples
  

Massage should not be applied directly to these areas. A therapist can still work on nearby muscles while avoiding the wound. Always inform the therapist about any cuts or sores before the session. This helps ensure a safe and effective treatment.

Part #2: Areas with Deep Vein Thrombosis (Blood Clots)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein. The legs are the most common location.

Massage should be avoided in areas with a clot. Applying pressure can cause the clot to break free. A traveling clot can block blood flow to vital organs. For this reason, DVT is considered an absolute contraindication for massage therapy.

Possible serious risks include:

• A clot traveling through the bloodstream.
  
• Blocked blood flow to the lungs, heart, or brain.
  
• Life-threatening conditions such as a pulmonary embolism.
  

If DVT is suspected or diagnosed, medical approval is required before any massage. Massage can be helpful in many situations, but areas with blood clots need special care.

Therapists never massage directly over a clot. Waiting for clearance from a healthcare provider may be necessary before resuming treatment. Once clearance is given, light techniques can be used. The affected area should be avoided until massage is completely safe.

Part #3: The Abdomen During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, massage therapists avoid working directly on the abdomen. Pressure here can stress the uterus and may lead to complications, including preterm labor. Therapists focus on other safe areas and adjust techniques for comfort.

Safe areas to focus on include:

• Legs
  
• Back
  
• Shoulders
  

Massage should be gentle, with light pressure, especially in the third trimester. Positioning techniques, like side-lying, reduce pressure on the abdomen and increase comfort.

Pregnancy massage can help relieve common discomforts, including:

• Back pain
  
• Swelling
  
• Muscle tension

When done safely, massage during pregnancy reduces stress, eases tension, and supports overall comfort for both mother and baby.

Part #4: Areas with Varicose Veins

Massaging directly over varicose veins is usually not safe. Varicose veins are swollen, twisted blood vessels close to the skin. They can be weak and painful. Pressing on them may:

• Increase discomfort.
  
• Damage the veins.
  
• Raise the risk of bleeding or clotting.
  

Instead of deep pressure, therapists may focus on gentle techniques around the area. Safer methods to ease symptoms include:

• Elevating the legs.
  
• Using compression stockings.
  

These approaches reduce stress on the veins while still providing relief to surrounding muscles.

Part #5: Areas Near Recent Fractures or Broken Bones

Massage should be avoided on or near recent fractures or broken bones. A broken bone needs time to heal. Strong pressure near the site can disrupt healing, cause pain, or lead to further injury.

Even after a fracture begins to heal, direct massage may not be safe until a doctor confirms full recovery.

In these cases, therapists can:

• Work on safe areas of the body away from the injury.
  
• Use lighter massage techniques.
  

Avoiding the fracture site protects the bone as it heals and prevents pain or complications.

How Therapists Modify Massage When Contraindications Exist

Before a massage, therapists ask about your health history and current issues. This helps identify concerns such as:

• Recent injuries.
  
• Skin conditions.
  
• Medical risks that may affect treatment.
  

The therapist may also check your body and discuss comfort levels. This screening ensures the massage is safe and effective for your situation.

If a risk is found in one area, therapists will:

• Redirect pressure to safe zones.
  
• Avoid the problematic spot.
  
• Work on surrounding muscles instead of the sensitive area.
  
• Use gentle or light techniques instead of deep pressure, especially near inflammation or healing wounds.
  

Sometimes, medical clearance may be requested before a massage. This is necessary if a health condition could make massage risky without a doctor’s approval, such as:

• Recent surgery.
  
• Active infection.
  
• Serious cardiovascular issues.
  

Getting clearance ensures it is safe to proceed with treatment.

Safety Tips for Clients Before Massage

Always share your health history and medications with your therapist before a session. Some medications can affect how your body responds to:

• Pressure
  
• Bruising
  
• Blood flow
  

Sharing this information helps the therapist choose the right techniques and pressure for your safety.

Mention any skin issues, wounds, or recent injuries, even if they seem minor. Examples include:

• Cuts or scrapes
  
• Rashes
  
• Open wounds
  

These areas may be unsafe for massage and need to be avoided.

Do not hesitate to speak up about areas of concern. If something feels painful or uncomfortable during the massage, let your therapist know immediately. Clear communication keeps you safe and ensures you get the most benefit from your treatment.

Conclusion

Some areas of the body should not be massaged. Pressure on these zones can worsen injuries or health conditions. Knowing which areas are unsafe helps protect your health and makes massage safer.

Open communication with your therapist is important. Share your health history and mention current issues. This allows the therapist to:

• Choose safe techniques.
• Avoid risky areas.
• Adjust pressure as needed.

Following contraindications and working closely with your therapist lets you enjoy the benefits of massage therapy safely and confidently.