Understanding the science and safety behind massage contraindications
Massage therapy offers many benefits — from stress relief and improved circulation to eased muscle tension and enhanced wellbeing. Research shows massage can be a valuable part of a wellness routine when you’re healthy. However, when you are actively sick or fighting an infection, massage therapy may not be appropriate and can even be harmful. NCCIH
Here’s what research and professional guidelines say about why you should wait until you’re well before scheduling a massage.
Massage Can Spread Infection or Make Symptoms Worse
Massage increases circulation throughout your body — a benefit when you’re healthy, but a potential risk when your immune system is already hard at work. When circulation increases during an active infection, there’s a risk of spreading the infection more widely throughout your system instead of allowing your immune system to contain and fight it. Professional contraindications list infections and fever as key situations where massage should be avoided.
Fever and Contagious Illness Are Absolute Contraindications
If you have a fever or are contagious (e.g., cold, flu, respiratory infections), massage is generally not recommended. Fever indicates your body is actively mounting an immune response, and adding the stress of manual manipulation may increase discomfort and prolong recovery.
Contagious illness also increases the risk of passing pathogens to your therapist and other clients — a real safety concern in any clinical setting.
Your Body Needs Rest More Than Stimulation
Illness puts your immune system into “overdrive.” Massage, while therapeutic when well, requires your body to respond to physical stimulation, which can demand additional energy that your body needs to fight infection and heal. Simply put: rest and hydration are the most effective ways to help your body recover — a massage during active illness is not the same as restful recovery and may detract from your body’s healing process.
Some Techniques Can Be Risky During Illness
Certain types of massage, especially those aimed at stimulating lymphatic circulation, carry added risks during infection. Lymphatic techniques increase lymph flow — a normally helpful action — but during illness this flow may unintentionally spread pathogens or interfere with the way your body and medications (like antibiotics) are working.
Even Mild Symptoms Can Increase Discomfort
When you’re sick, your body is often more sensitive. What would typically feel relaxing may feel more intense or uncomfortable when you’re congested, achy, or fatigued.
When Is It Okay to Schedule a Massage Again?
Once you are symptom-free and no longer contagious, and you’ve had at least a day or two without fever or active illness signs, massage can be a wonderful way to support recovery and continue self-care. If you’re unsure whether your symptoms still count as active illness, it’s always best to reach out or consult your healthcare provider before booking your session.
Your health and safety — and that of our therapists and other clients — always come first. If you’re feeling under the weather, we encourage you to rest, hydrate, and recover fully. When you’re well again, we’ll be here to help support your wellness journey with therapeutic massage.