What is contraindicated for a client with a recent fracture?

Massage over the fractured area is contraindicated for a client with a recent fracture because applying pressure or manipulation directly to the site can impede healing, cause pain, or potentially displace the fracture further. During the acute phase of healing, the tissues need to stabilize, and any form of direct manipulation may disrupt the healing process. Instead, while some treatments may be appropriate in surrounding areas, the fractured site requires care and should not be disturbed to ensure proper recovery.

Gentle stretching of the limbs might still be beneficial in some cases, depending on the guidance of a healthcare provider, and heat application can help with pain and swelling in certain situations, so long as it is applied to the surrounding tissues rather than the fracture site. Light massage on adjacent muscles could also be considered to alleviate tension without directly affecting the fracture itself, as long as care is taken to avoid discomfort or damage to the healing area.