Massage therapy is conducted by a licensed massage therapist where the body is manipulated through pressurized touch and rubbing. The muscles and soft tissue of the body can be massaged to help with relieving tension, stress and anxiety. However, there can be some side effects from massage, especially if you already suffer from some medical conditions like cancer or diabetes.
Pain
Pain is one side effect of massage. However, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center pain is a rare side effect that is usually caused when a person receives a vigorous massage. People who have problems with muscle tightness or knotted muscles sometimes require more aggressive kneading than other massages. If you are one of these people that need a more aggressive massage then it is very important that you communicate with your massage therapist about the pain you are experiencing. The massage therapist can then adjust the pressure they are applying to help control the pain better.
Low Blood Sugar
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, massage is usually a useful way to help regulate your blood sugar. However, you need to always check your blood sugar levels just before and just after a massage because your blood sugar can drop while receiving a massage. Massage therapy helps to improve circulation of the blood and lymphatic system and this improves the uptake of insulin into the cells.
But, for people that suffer from low blood sugar or someone with uncontrolled diabetes, massage therapy can cause the blood sugar levels to go dangerously low. According to New York University Medical Center, low blood sugar can come on suddenly and cause symptoms such as sweating, shakiness, weakness, hunger and confusion. If it is not treated quickly a person can lose consciousness and it can become life threatening. It is important to always communicate to your massage therapist if you have a blood sugar (high or low) condition.
Tissue Damage
People who have cancer and are undergoing radiation or chemotherapy are at risk for tissue damage from a massage. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this is because the tissue around the site being treated becomes fragile. If you are one of these people, it is important to let your physician know if you are thinking about getting a massage.
In addition, the University of Maryland Medical Center also reports that if you have a condition with the veins such as phlebitis or cellulitis you should also avoid massage because the tissue around these sites can also be further damaged. As well as talking with your physician, you should always let your massage therapist know about any medical condition that you suffer from.
