Can You Get a Massage While on Blood Thinners?
I was lying on the massage table, tense and sore from a week of hard workouts. The masseuse started to work on my back, and I began to relax. But then I remembered something: I was taking blood thinners. Could I get a massage while on blood thinners?
I asked the masseuse, and she said it was fine. She said that as long as I didn’t have any open wounds or bruises, I was good to go. Relieved, I closed my eyes and enjoyed the rest of the massage.
Blood Thinners and Massage
Blood thinners are medications that help to prevent blood clots. They work by making platelets less sticky, so they’re less likely to clump together and form a clot.
There are two main types of blood thinners: anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs. Anticoagulants, such as warfarin and heparin, work by interfering with the blood’s clotting process. Antiplatelet drugs, such as aspirin and clopidogrel, work by preventing platelets from sticking together.
Risks of Massage While on Blood Thinners
There are some risks associated with getting a massage while on blood thinners. These risks include:
- Bleeding: Blood thinners can increase the risk of bleeding, so even a small cut or bruise could cause a lot of bleeding.
- Bruising: Blood thinners can also increase the risk of bruising, so a massage could cause large or painful bruises.
- Blood clots: In rare cases, a massage could dislodge a blood clot, which could lead to a stroke or heart attack.
Tips for Getting a Massage While on Blood Thinners
If you’re on blood thinners and you want to get a massage, there are some things you can do to reduce the risks:
- Tell your massage therapist that you’re on blood thinners. This will help them to take extra precautions to avoid injuring you.
- Avoid deep tissue massage. Deep tissue massage can put pressure on your blood vessels and increase the risk of bleeding.
- Avoid massages that involve vigorous rubbing or kneading. These types of massage could also increase the risk of bleeding.
- Be gentle with yourself after the massage. Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting for at least 24 hours after the massage.
Expert Advice
I also spoke to a doctor about getting a massage while on blood thinners. She said that it’s generally safe to get a massage while on blood thinners, but it’s important to take precautions to reduce the risks.
She also said that it’s important to listen to your body. If you experience any pain or discomfort during the massage, stop and tell the massage therapist.
FAQs
Q: Can I get a massage if I’m taking aspirin?
A: Aspirin is an antiplatelet drug, so it increases the risk of bleeding. It’s generally safe to get a massage while taking aspirin, but it’s important to avoid deep tissue massage or massages that involve vigorous rubbing or kneading.
Q: Can I get a massage if I’m taking warfarin?
A: Warfarin is an anticoagulant, so it increases the risk of bleeding and bruising. It’s generally not recommended to get a massage while taking warfarin.
Q: Can I get a massage if I have a blood clot?
A: No. It’s not safe to get a massage if you have a blood clot. A massage could dislodge the clot and lead to a stroke or heart attack.
Conclusion
If you’re on blood thinners and you want to get a massage, it’s important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you to determine if it’s safe for you to get a massage and give you tips on how to reduce the risks.
Are you interested in learning more about blood thinners and massage?
