October 2023

WHY TO CANCEL A MASSAGE WHEN YOU ARE ILL

We are getting close to flu season. When you have a fever or infection, or even a common cold, that is a good reason to postpone your massage therapy appointment. For one thing, touch may not feel good. Plus, you could be contagious--especially in the first stages of a cold or flu. This is usually when you are feeling the worst, when you are coughing and sneezing frequently. The more you limit your contact with others, including your massage therapist, the less you will spread your condition around. 

Studies show you can transmit a cold or flu to others one or two days before your symptoms appear, and up to five days after first being exposed to the virus. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), colds are most contagious two two four days after original exposure, when there is plenty of virus present in the nasal secretions.

There is another reason to avoid massage when you have a cold or the flu. Because one of the major impacts of massage is on the circulation (including the removal of wasteful by-products and infectious materials), it is thought that massage can actually increase the spread of infection in your body. If you are sick, your immune system is already working hard. One of the best immune supports may truly be resting and drinking plenty of liquids, according to your body's tolerance of liquids. 

And remember, whenever you have any questions about the appropriateness of massage, be sure to talk with a massage therapist when you schedule the appointment. And, if you are under the care of a physician for any reason, let them know you are receiving massage therapy. 

Adapted from Client Education Handouts for Self-Care--Information for People