Understanding Contraindications in Sports Massage: Why They Matter for Safe Treatment
When you book a sports massage, the focus is usually on feeling better, recovering faster, and improving performance. However, not every situation is appropriate for massage therapy. That’s where contraindications come in — and understanding them is essential for safe, effective treatment.
At Trident Performance Therapy, we take your health seriously. Being aware of contraindications ensures that your treatment is safe, tailored to your needs, and supports your overall wellbeing, rather than risking complications.
In this blog, we’ll explain:
What a contraindication is
Why contraindications affect massage treatments
Common examples you should know about
What happens if you attend a session while unwell
Why open communication is key
What Is a Contraindication?
A contraindication is any medical condition, symptom, or situation that makes massage therapy potentially unsafe or inappropriate — either temporarily or permanently.
Contraindications can be:
Local (affecting only part of the body)
General (meaning treatment should be postponed altogether)
In simple terms: a contraindication tells your therapist whether to adapt, avoid, or delay treatment to keep you safe.
Why Do Contraindications Affect Sports Massage?
Massage therapy isn’t just about relaxing muscles — it has powerful effects on the body’s circulatory, lymphatic, and immune systems. While this is usually beneficial, it can sometimes worsen underlying conditions, spread infections, or interfere with healing.
Ignoring contraindications could lead to:
Increased inflammation or swelling
Spreading bacterial or viral infections
Delayed recovery from injuries
Increased pain or discomfort post-treatment
This is why, at Trident Performance Therapy, we always ask about your health before your appointment — it’s not just a box-ticking exercise. It’s critical to ensuring the safest and most effective care possible.
Common Contraindications in Sports Massage
Here are some important contraindications you should be aware of:
1. Colds, Flu, and Respiratory Infections
When your body is fighting an infection, massage can push toxins into the bloodstream faster, potentially making you feel worse. Plus, massage boosts circulation, which might spread the infection further around the body.
👉 If you’re feeling under the weather, it’s best to reschedule.
Not only for your own health but also to protect other clients and your therapist.
2. Fever
A fever signals that your body is already working hard to fight off illness. Massage could overload the system further, leading to increased fatigue or worsening symptoms.
3. Contagious Skin Conditions
Conditions such as ringworm, athlete’s foot, or any unexplained rashes can be easily spread through skin contact.
Massage will be postponed until the condition is treated or localised treatment can be safely managed.
4. Recent Injuries
Acute injuries like sprains, fractures, or torn muscles are initially inflamed and fragile.
Massage at this stage could cause further damage.
Typically, massage is only reintroduced during the recovery phase once swelling and acute pain have reduced.
5. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
This is a serious contraindication. Massage can dislodge a blood clot, leading to life-threatening complications like pulmonary embolism.
If there is any suspicion of DVT (e.g., swelling, redness, tenderness in the leg), massage will not proceed, and you should seek immediate medical advice.
6. Pregnancy (Early Stage)
Massage during the first trimester is often approached with caution. Certain techniques or pressure points may need to be avoided.
If you are pregnant, it is vital to inform your therapist so appropriate adjustments can be made.
7. Cancer and Certain Medical Treatments
While massage can be beneficial for people living with or recovering from cancer, it requires specialist knowledge.
If you are undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or recent surgery, you must have medical clearance before treatment.
Common Contraindications in Sports Massage
If you arrive at your appointment and disclose a contraindication:
Your therapist will assess whether treatment can go ahead safely.
They may adapt the treatment (e.g., avoid certain areas or use gentler techniques).
They may recommend postponing your session if full treatment isn’t safe.
Remember:
This isn’t about being difficult — it’s about keeping your health and wellbeing the top priority.
Why Disclosing Your Health History Is Essential
At Trident Performance Therapy, we require clients to fill out a health form before treatment begins.
Being honest about your medical history, recent illnesses, medications, and any changes to your health allows us to:
Deliver the best and safest treatment possible
Modify techniques to suit your needs
Avoid any risks of worsening your condition
Your information is always kept confidential and handled according to UK GDPR standards.
Final Thoughts
Contraindications might sound restrictive, but they are a vital part of professional sports massage therapy.
At Trident Performance Therapy, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the muscles — and that means making sure the timing, style, and focus of your treatment are right for you.
If you’re ever unsure whether a condition or symptom affects your eligibility for massage, just get in touch. We’re always happy to advise and reschedule if needed — no judgement, no stress.
Stay safe, stay strong, and let’s work together to support your health and performance.
