Deep Vein Thrombosis

[Barry]

Hi all,

I have been contacted by an 79 year old gentlemen who wants to have regular full body massage. He says he has dvt in his lower right leg and wears a support stocking. I have told him that it wouldn't be advisable for him to have massage without doctors approval. He is adamant he wants to go ahead and have a massage anyway (avoiding the leg).

Please can you advise what I should tell him or do. I was thinking massage would be totally contraindicated for this condition but he is adamant he will be fine.

Many thanks in advance.

Jo x

 

[Stephan Atkin]

hi Jo,
this is the lead body guideline

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) - a much more serious condition, where a blood clot forms in a vein, often when someone has to stay in bed after surgery, a stroke or childbirth. If the clot breaks lose it can travel through the system to the lungs, with fatal results.
Massage: Totally contra-indicated for 3–6 months after diagnosis, for client/practitioner
protection.
• After that period, seek medical permission, and give gentle massage only.

 

[Pompal 09.]

Hi Jo,

I personally would refuse treatment, explain to the gentleman why you are refusing treatment, and leave it at that.

 

[Jamie lynn]

Not a great situation for you to be in but think I would refuse too.
x

 

[Voneellompeda]

I would not massage someone with a DVT. Explain why you feel it is inadvisable and maybe suggest he ask his GP about it next time he's there. Just a bit of back-up for what you tell him.