Fever: When you have a fever, your body is trying to isolate and expel an invader of some kind. Massage increases overall circulation and could therefore work against your body's natural defenses.
Inflammation: Massage can further irritate an area of inflammation. Inflamed conditions include anything that ends in –itis, such as phlebitis (inflammation of a vein), dermatitis (inflammation of the skin), arthritis (inflammation of the joints), and so on. In the case of localized problems, you can still receive massage around them, avoiding the inflammation itself.
High blood pressure: High blood pressure means excessive pressure against blood vessel walls. Massage affects the blood vessels, and so people with high blood pressure or a heart condition should receive light, sedating massages, if at all.
Infectious diseases: Massage is not a good idea for someone coming down with the flu, pneumonia or diphtheria.
Hernia: Hernias are protrusions of part of an organ (such as the intestines) through a muscular wall. It's not a good idea to try to push these organs back inside. Surgery works better.
Osteoporosis: Elderly people with a severe stoop to the shoulders often have this condition, in which bones become porous, brittle, and fragile. Massage may be too intense for this condition. Please get a doctor's approval and only light touch thereafter.
Varicose veins: Massage directly over varicose veins can worsen the problem. However, if you apply a very light massage next to the problem, always in a direction toward the heart, it can be very beneficial.
Blood Clots/Thrombosis: Please get a doctors note. Massage may loosen a clot.
Broken bones: A little light massage to the surrounding areas, can improve circulation and be quite helpful. No massage on the bone.
Skin problems: Rashes, wounds, bruises, burns, boils, and blisters, are local contraindications. If areas are not visible while clothed, please inform therapist before you begin.
Cancer: Cancer can spread through the lymphatic system, and because massage increases lymphatic circulation, it may potentially spread the disease as well. Simple, caring touch is fine, but massage strokes that stimulate circulation are not. Always check with your doctor first.
Diabetes: Please get your doctors permission. Unmedicated diabetes is not allowed.
Severe Asthma: Do not lie face down. If you have extreme sensititvities to dies and fragrances you may wish to bring your own sheets and lotions.
HIV infection: HIV can't be transmitted during massage unless there is a transfer of bodily fluids. So, HIV infection is not contraindicated for this reason. However, some of the infections that people suffering from the later stages of AIDS experience are contraindicated, and you should avoid those infections. Loving, soothing contact is extremely important for people at any stage of infection, but in the case of any visible rashes, sores, lesions, or swelling, massage is best left to a professional. If the therapist has any cuts on their hands they will want to wear plastic gloves.