When NOT to get a massage

Yes, Massage Can Do a Lot — But It’s Not for Every Situation, Every Time

Massage therapy is powerful.
It can help reduce pain, improve recovery, lower stress, and get your body back in sync. But like any therapy, there are moments where it’s better to pause, wait, or choose a different approach.

At YFS (Your Form Sux), we’re not here to sell you a massage when what you really need is rest, clearance from your doctor, or a different kind of support. So here’s the no-BS list of when not to get a massage — and why it matters.

❌ 1. You Have a Fever or Active Infection

Whether it’s the flu, a cold, COVID, or something bacterial — if your immune system is already working overtime, massage could make it worse.

Why? Because it increases circulation and lymph flow, which may spread infection or spike fatigue.

What to do instead: Rest, hydrate, and reschedule once you’re feeling 100% again.

❌ 2. You Just Had a Major Injury (Think: Acute Phase)

If you sprained an ankle yesterday, pulled your back this morning, or can’t bear weight without pain — massage might not be the first move.

Why? Your body’s still inflamed, guarding, and vulnerable. Deep work too soon can make things worse.

What to do instead: See a physio or rehab specialist (hi 👋) first for assessment. We can tell you when and how massage fits into the healing plan.

❌ 3. You’re in the First Trimester of Pregnancy — and the Clinic Isn’t Prenatal-Trained

Massage can be safe during pregnancy — but it must be done by someone trained in prenatal massage, especially in the early stages.

Why? Certain acupressure points, body positions, and hormonal factors matter. And not all RMTs are equipped to navigate them.

What to do instead: Always disclose pregnancy, and make sure your therapist has prenatal expertise (ours do).

❌ 4. You Have a Skin Infection, Open Wound, or Rash

If you’ve got broken skin, a rash, infection, or contagious skin condition, massage in that area is a hard no. It could spread the issue or increase irritation.

What to do instead: Let it heal. Once the skin is intact and clear, you’re good to go.

❌ 5. You’re Super Hungover or Dehydrated

Massage increases blood and lymph flow. If your body’s already trying to process a night of drinking, massage may make you feel worse — dizzy, nauseous, or foggy.

What to do instead: Hydrate. Recover. Rebook once you’re back to baseline.

❌ 6. You Have a Blood Clot or DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)

This is serious. Massage can dislodge a clot and cause a life-threatening situation if you’re at risk or undiagnosed. Always let your therapist know about circulation concerns, medications, or any DVT history.

What to do instead: Get medical clearance before booking any manual therapy.

❌ 7. You Just Had Surgery (Without Clearance)

Massage can absolutely support post-op recovery — but only at the right time and with medical clearance. Too soon, and you could disrupt healing tissue, increase risk of bleeding, or mess with sutures/scars.

What to do instead: Talk to your surgical team first, then book with a clinic like YFS that’s familiar with post-op protocols.

❌ 8. You’re Not Comfortable — Mentally or Physically

If you’re feeling unsafe, anxious, unsure, or triggered, it’s okay to wait until your nervous system is ready. Consent is ongoing. You should never feel pressured into treatment — even if you’re already on the table.

What to do instead: Talk to your therapist. A good RMT will respect your boundaries, adapt the session, or help you find a better option for that moment.

💡 Final Word: Massage Therapy Is Powerful — But It’s Not Always the Right Tool

Knowing when not to get a massage is part of body literacy — and at YFS, we’re here to help you make smart, informed choices.

No guilt. No pushy sales. Just real recovery when your body’s ready for it.

Not sure if now’s the right time for a massage?
Reach out. We’ll walk you through it, zero pressure. And if massage isn’t the best fit today, we’ll help you find what is.