Which of the following conditions requires careful consideration before proceeding with massage therapy?

Recent surgery requires careful consideration before proceeding with massage therapy due to several factors associated with the healing process. When a person has undergone surgery, there are specific physiological changes and potential complications that must be taken into account. The site of the surgery may still be healing or may be sensitive to touch, making certain massage techniques inappropriate or potentially harmful.

Additionally, the presence of surgical wounds or healing tissues can introduce the risk of infection or delayed healing if not properly managed. Careful evaluation of the patient’s medical history, the type and extent of surgery, and their current condition is crucial to ensure that massage therapy will not exacerbate any issues.

In contrast, while conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and asthma also require awareness and management during massage therapy, they often do not carry the same immediate risks associated with direct manipulation of a surgical site. These conditions can be managed with appropriate techniques and modifications to ensure patient safety. However, with recent surgery, practitioners need to assess readiness for therapy more rigorously to avoid complications.