Like any theraputic practice, the benefits promised should always be weighed against awareness of various health factors that require to be addressed before commencing with the therapy. Massage is no different and patients require to be aware of them to ensure they are not putting themselves at any risk.

For starters, there are more than 10 types being used to date. Some examples of these include reflexology, shiatsu, back, Thai, hot stone, deep tissue, facial, Indian Head, aromatherapy and Swedish.

There are only a few serious risks with regards to massage therapy and this can be avoided if you take the proper precautions. The first thing to do will be to consult with your doctor if you have any concerns to reassure yourself that it is safe for you to see a masseuse. They will advise you on the contraindications that you must adhere to in order not to put yourself at risk.

It is important that any patient who has the following conditions should recognised that massage therapy should not be used. These include deep vein thrombosis that happens to be a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the legs, a bleeding disorder or taking blood-thinning drugs such as warfarin, damaged blood vessels and weakened bones from osteoporosis, a recent fracture, or cancer.

You also should avoid a massage if you have a fever, have an open injury, been diagnosed with a tumor, have damaged nerves, have an infection or acute inflammation. Certain conditions could also be dangerous if you decide to have this therapy. This list will include pregnancy, any type of cancer, fragile skin, heart conditions, dermatomyositis plus a history of physical abuse.

You must be aware that there can be side effects related to massage therapy. These include such matters as temporary pain, bruising to the skin, swelling or incidents of sensitivity plus any allergy to aromatherapy oils used by massuers.

You should not in any way use massage therapy as a substitute for your regular medical care. If your doctor tells you that you can see a specialist, do some research about the person. You should check on their credentials or licenses, years of experience and training. It is always prudent to enquire of your massueur if they possess specialised training to assist you in your recovery or therapy for a medical condition.

It wouldn't hurt to also ask if they use other practices aside from massage therapy to help their patients. Some examples of these include the use of herbs and requiring the patient to go on a special diet.

Part of the criteria should include giving you privacy when you change, he or she covers your body for modesty and warmth, inquires before beginning the session what part of the body you want worked on, asks for feedback as to how they are doing and accommodates requests for less or more intense pressure.

One of the principle advantages of massage therapy it the relief that it provides without the need to resorting to pain killers though you are advised to acquaint yourself with the massage techniques that you wish so you have a basic understanding when you visit the massueur.