Complementary Alternative Cardiovascular Medicine

160 Alternative Cardiovascular Medicine
Table 1
Special Considerations for Massage
Acute infection Massage is relatively contraindicated for areas
of acute infection. This could include
infections of the bone, (osteomyelitis),
joints (septic arthritis), skin (dermatitis),
muscle (myositis), or subcutaneous
(cellulites). Avoid affected areas if
inflammation is localized. Do not apply
massage if a fever is present.
Acute rheumatoid arthritis Avoid affected joints.
Aplastic anemia Massage is systemically contraindicated.
Physician verification is needed.
Hemolytic anemia Massage is systemically contraindicated.
Physician approval necessary.
Aneurysm Massage is systemically contraindicated for
patients with known aneurysms. Physician
must verify that the patient can handle the
increase in circulation and pressure. With
abdominal aneurysm, local massage is
absolutely contraindicated.
Angina pectoris Massage systemically contraindicated during
acute episodes of angina but can continue
after symptoms are relieved.
Arteriosclerosis Massage can help to reduce stress and anxiety
levels and may promote general relaxation.
Cancer There is no research indicating that body work
causes cancer to spread. Research has
shown that informed, caring touch can have
a positive effect on the immune system.
Avoid deep pressure. Cancer massage is
effective in the management and treatment
of cancer in these following areas: reducing
cancer pain—managing nausea, treating
lymphedema, reducing anxiety, and
enhancing relaxation (34–44).
Cardiomyopathy Massage can be used with physician
verification that patient can tolerate
treatment.
Congestive heart Massage should be light and of short duration.
failure (CHF). Patients with CHF may
be candidates for massage; however, the
treatment is not a general kneading massage.
Care must be given to ensure that the
patient’s chest is elevated and that the
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