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Massage has an amazing effect on the health of the person being massaged. It improves circulation, relaxes muscles, aids digestion, and stimulates the lymph system.
You can easily manage to massage yourself. Use self-massage to energize yourself before school or work, or to unwind in the evening. You can massage your feet and hands while watching TV. You do not need to undress, but you must be comfortable. Use oil if you are massaging on bare skin. Sit in a chair, or on the floor, or lie down with your knees bent and your feet on the floor.
Certain medical conditions
require the exercise of caution concerning the advisability of giving or
receiving massage. If you are in any doubt, or if you or your partner are under
medical supervision, check with your doctor or other qualified medical
practitioner before embarking on massage therapy. This advice applies
particularly in the case of cardiovascular conditions and heart disease,
especially in cases of thrombosis, phlebitis, and edema.
Never apply pressure under
or over varicose veins.
Never massage directly over infected skin, for example
where there are warts, herpes, or boils, or where there is inflammation,
unexplained lumps, bruises and open cuts. While giving a massage, cover up any
open cuts or scratches on your hands with a plaster or other dressing. Massage
on the abdomen is best avoided during the first three months of pregnancy when
the risk of miscarriage is highest.
The
causes of acute back pain should first be diagnosed by a physician before
receiving massage treatment. Consult a qualified medical practitioner in cases
of raised temperature, infections, or contagious disease.
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Seek medical
advice before having a massage if you suffer from phlebitis, thrombosis,
varicose veins, severe acute back pain, or fever.
Swellings, fractures, skin infections, or bruises should not be massaged. Lumps and swellings should be checked by your doctor.
Massage of the abdomen, legs, and feet should not be given during the first three months of pregnancy.
Cancer patients are best treated by specially trained practitioners who know which areas to avoid and which kind of massage is appropriate.
Below are a list of websites where you can find more information on self-massage. Remember, consult a physician if you have any concerns or questions about your condition. The information here is not intended for diagnosis or treatment of any health problems or illnesses.
http://www.rd.com/living-healthy/learn-the-art-of-self-massage/article16051.html
http://www.nwhealth.edu/healthyU/chillout/self.html
http://www.bellevuemassagetherapy.com/self-massage.html
