This article focuses on the changes over the years on massage techniques and requirements. The author says massage is no longer just a therapy of indulgence and pampering but one that people with chronic medical conditions choose to complement their medical treatments.
This change may have come about when it was discovered to be an effective method of pain relief for those suffering from terminal conditions like Aids and cancer. In view of this, practitioners today are required to have a basic understanding of common medical conditions, the systems of the body that are affected, underlying causes, signs and symptoms and indications and contraindications for massage for safe treatment plans.
All awarding bodies for massage training in the UK provide modules within the curriculum which teach pathology and contraindications. Guidelines are also available on the website of the General Council for Massage Therapy.
The author also suggests a simple medical dictionary for a more comprehensive list of pathological conditions and a copy of the British National Formulary for information about medication (i.e. Randal Persad's book on massage and medication).
The article also includes the case study of a 70-year-old with a complicated medical history and on medication for some conditions and the massage technique used to treat her. It also discusses the importance of liaising with a doctor or consultant for both medical and insurance purposes and how to go about this.
The author concludes with some general guidelines on how to decide when to inform, when to ask about the advisability of massage and when no action is required.
