Anyone who enjoys relaxing massages should be cautious! Did you know certain chronic illnesses strictly prohibit massage? Check immediately these 5 diseases that should not be massaged as they may cause life-threatening risks including burst blood vessels, fractures, or unexpected shock.
Traditional Thai massage or relaxation massage has long been part of Thai culture, effectively relieving muscle soreness from work or office syndrome. However, not everyone can safely receive massage. If you have certain chronic conditions, pressure points, twisting, or pulling may trigger severe symptoms or even be life-threatening. Information from the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine and expert physicians identifies specific diseases and precautions to assess before seeking massage services.
Many mistakenly believe massage cures all pain, but medically, these 5 chronic diseases should avoid massage or require close medical consultation beforehand.
Patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure should never receive massage because pressure can stimulate rapid blood circulation, causing blood pressure to spike. This increases risk of capillary rupture or severe brain blood vessel rupture, potentially resulting in paralysis.
Massage in heart disease patients can be dangerous because it stimulates heart activity to pump harder. Additionally, for those with blood clots, pressure may dislodge clots causing blockage in lung or brain vessels, an emergency that can lead to shock or death.
Diabetic patients with high blood sugar often suffer peripheral neuropathy, reducing pain sensation. Strong massage may cause unnoticed bruising or muscle injury. Moreover, wounds or bruises in diabetics heal poorly and risk severe infections.
Cancer patients, especially those with bone or lymph node metastasis, must strictly avoid Thai or acupressure massage. Medical data shows massage may accelerate cancer cell spread through blood or lymphatic systems. Cancer patients’ bones are usually fragile; strong massage can cause fractures.
Common in the elderly, osteoporosis causes thin, brittle bones prone to breakage. Massage involving pressure, twisting, or pulling risks fractures or joint dislocations without warning. Elderly seeking relaxation should opt for gentle stroking or physiotherapy under expert supervision instead.
Besides the five diseases above, people with fever over 38.5°C, pregnant women, those on blood thinners, or with open or infected wounds are also at risk and should avoid massage.
Health massage is beneficial but must prioritize safety. Before every massage session, honestly inform the Thai traditional doctor or therapist about your medical history and chronic illnesses so they can assess risks and select the safest relaxation method, preventing health care from unintentionally causing harm.
Source: Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine and Public Health Safety Standards