There are certain conditions which make Hot stones massage painful, risky or even dangerous.

On your first visit to me, a short consultation will be completed. This will check for any contraindications to massage and any of the essential oils. Then we can select the essential oils (if used) and best form of massage for your particular needs.

There are reasons for carrying out a contraindication consultation:

1. It enables us to determine any health problems or indications of why treatment should not be given.
2. It helps build up a reflection of your physical health, which is vital to me to ensure accurate diagnosis which in turn leads to the correct treatment.
3. The whole procedure helps to protect the best interests of both client and therapist.

Below is a list of conditions which will determine what sort of massage you can have, if any at all.
This is even more important when essential oils are used in the massage, as they have their own 'set of rules' as to what can be used and when.

Please don't be put off by the list below. It is only there as a guide to allow you to determine if it's worth making an appointment with me.
It will save you visiting me only to be told that you can't have a massage or that you can only have a certain type of massage.

Please feel free to contact me if you are uncertain about a condition you may have.

Contraindications to ANY massage

• If you are feverish, have an acute infectious disease or are generally unwell.
• If you are being treated for cancer (unless the massage is carried out under medical supervision).
• If you are under the influence of drink or drugs.
• If you are pregnant and I have reason to believe that the pregnancy is unstable (in the first 4 months of pregnancy it is strongly recommended that no treatment is given until the 4th month has passed. After that, gentle massage is possible over the stomach. Certain essential oils can be abortive).
• If you have suffered a serious injury in the previous 48 hours.
• If you have had recent surgery.
• If you are on major medication (it is recommended that you discuss any new treatment with your GP first).
• If you are currently being treated with a manipulative therapy such as osteopathy.
• If you have a high temperature.
• If you have an infectious skin disease (acne, psoriasis and eczema are not infectious).
• During heavy menstruation (heavy bleeding can make massage uncomfortable. You should decide on whether to go ahead with treatment).
• If you suffer from epilepsy (under normal circumstances this condition should not be treated. However if you still want a massage then you must get a note from your GP saying that treatment can go ahead).
• If you have very high blood pressure (with a note form your GP, certain essential oils can be used to improve the condition).
• If you have diabetes (once again a note from your GP would be advisable before treatment begins).
• If you suffer from serious heart problems then no treatment is advised at all.
• If you have varicose veins or phlebitis then no hot stones massage is advisable but cold stones is beneficial.

Contraindications to LOCALISED massage

• Over a limb where there is history of thrombosis or phlebitis in the blood vessels.
• Over an area of a skin disorder which may be spread.
• Over an area of inflammation such as a rash or boil.
• Over an area of severe sunburn.
• Over recent bruising, cuts, recent scars or abrasions or very thin, fragile skin.
• Over recent sprains, fractures or surgical procedures.
• Over a joint that is hot or swollen. Cold stones is beneficial.
• Over any swelling or lumps.
• Directly over very large moles.
• Over the stomach during the first 4 months of pregnancy.