Muscular Structure Therapy (MST) – Contraindications

 

While MST is generally considered safe and effective, there are specific conditions where massage therapy—and certain techniques used in MST—should be avoided or applied with extreme caution. Your health and safety are our top priorities.

Contraindications Include:

1. Acute Muscle Injuries – Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) may worsen injuries, particularly tears or severe strains.

2. Joint Instability or Hypermobility – Conditions like ligamentous laxity or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome can be aggravated by MET.

3. Severe Osteoporosis – The pressure used in MET may cause fractures in fragile bones.

4. Fractures or Dislocations – Massage and manipulation should be avoided until proper healing has occurred.

5. Severe Acute Pain – This could signal a deeper issue that MET may exacerbate.

6. Severe Rheumatoid Arthritis – Due to its inflammatory nature, MET may not be appropriate.

7. Infectious or Inflammatory Joint Diseases – Such as septic arthritis, where massage may spread infection.

8. Malignancy in the Treatment Area – Manipulation near tumors may risk spreading cancerous cells.

9. Recent Surgery – Healing tissues need time; MET may interfere with recovery.

10. Vascular Disorders – Includes conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or advanced atherosclerosis.

11. Severe Neurological Conditions – Such as acute disc herniation with nerve involvement or spinal cord compression.

12. Cold or Flu-like Symptoms – Massage may worsen symptoms or spread infection.

13. Kidney or Liver Conditions – These may impact how the body responds to massage.

14. Contagious Diseases – To protect both the client and therapist.

15. Uncontrolled High Blood Pressure – Massage may increase cardiovascular risk.

16. Active Blood Clots – Manipulation can dislodge clots, potentially causing serious complications.

17. Cancer – If you’ve had chemotherapy or radiation in the last 6 months, or lymph node removal in the past 12 months, a physician’s clearance is required.

18. Heart Conditions – Clients with recent heart attacks, heart surgeries, or irregular heartbeats must obtain a doctor’s note. Massage is not appropriate for individuals with advanced heart failure.

19. Dehydration – May lead to headaches, nausea, and poor response to massage.

20. Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs – These substances impair judgment, dehydrate the body, and affect the body’s ability to provide accurate feedback during a session.

 

Important Notes:

• If you are experiencing any of the above conditions—or are unsure whether MST or MET is appropriate—please consult a healthcare provider first.

• You may also contact us to schedule a virtual assessment, where we can help determine whether this treatment is a good fit for your current health needs.

• If you are in severe pain when scheduling or on the day of your appointment, please cancel your session and consult your physician.

• A licensed massage therapist reserves the right to decline or discontinue a session if they believe it is in the best interest of the client’s health or safety.

• Himalayan Salt Stones may have additional contraindications. Your therapist will assess your condition prior to use.

• Addressing contraindications helps prevent adverse effects during or after treatment, protecting your body from potential complications or injury.