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Four Tough Problems Massage Therapists Face--And
How to Deal with Them
Copyright 2003 M. Johanna Powell
1. Professional Limitations. When you are faced with a situation beyond your knowledge. You are in this profession to help others and it is very easy to forget that you do have professional limitations in the desire to try and help everyone. Massage is a wonderful asset to client care but it is not a magic cure all. You are limited to doing only what you have received adequate training for. Do not be afraid or ashamed of referring to another health professional that has the level of training required. In fact, I encourage you to have a good relationship with (and a good working knowledge of) as many health professionals as possible to meet this very need. Referring your client to another caring professional is the responsible, professional action and you establish greater respect from both the client and the health professional. Clients like to return to someone who puts their health first.
2. Contraindications. Recognizing situations when massage can be harmful. Knowing the reason NOT to do massage is vital in order for you to be able to explain why you are not going to do the massage today. Some of these reasons include but are not limited to, Acute Infectious Diseases, Atherosclerosis, Cancer, Inflammation, Psychotic Behavior, Thrombophlebitis, Ulcers and Varicose Veins. Each of the above deserves careful consideration and restraint. A complete client history that is reviewed each time you see the client gives you an edge on placing the client’s best interests first…even if it means saying “No, I am not comfortable providing a massage for you today because of _________(give the reason). If a client argues, stay firm. You can offer a coupon for $10 off on the next visit when their doctor has released them or the condition has been eliminated.
One of my Gift Certificate clients canceled her initial visit because she was having eye surgery. I extended the G.C. and rescheduled her for several months in the future. When she came in, I ask if her doctor had released her for the massage. She said she had not mentioned getting a massage to him. I said how sorry I was, but I was not comfortable giving the massage without her doctor’s approval, mentioning the pressure of blood on the eye as she would be face down for approximately 20 minutes. She was a bit unhappy since she had driven quite a ways to reach me. I suggested that when she had her doctor’s approval, I would include an aromatherapy treatment because of the inconvenience of the delay. Two days later, she called to thank me for refusing since her doctor had said she was definitely not to get a massage for another three to four weeks. My refusal gained me several referrals from this woman.
3. Documentation. Paperwork takes valuable time away from your business however careful notes can save your business and keep you from involvement in malpractice litigation. If something is not written in your notes, it was never said as far as the court is concerned. If you work on the same client every week, you will see them through many changes and minor problems. If you suspect a serious condition, refer them to their doctor or appropriate health care provider. Keep careful documentation on pertinent conversations you have with any primary care provider and/or client. Your notes should include the client’s condition, the date, who you spoke with and the pertinent points of the conversation. You will also want to record any follow up. It is helpful if you use a consistent form to record this information. Keep it attached to your Client History so everything is available at once.
4. Client History. They never tell you everything. They forget vital information like having a pacemaker or having high blood pressure. They are familiar with these and forget it may be important, so take the time to explain reasons behind your questions. Make sure your new client forms are as comprehensive as possible and have your client review and update them every year.
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