Proceed With Caution
Foot/Ankle Massage for Pregnant Clients BY LESLIE STAGER
M
ost massage students have heard the warning, "Don't touch a pregnant women's ankles," yet few can articulate defi nitive reasons for this contraindication apart from a generic fear that it will trigger contractions. Considering the high percentage of miscarriages each year, perhaps there is good reason for caution, yet the warning does not appear to be based on research or even much anecdotal evidence. It does raise questions, however: How did this concern about touching the ankles develop and is there documentation to validate it? Is gentle touch during pregnancy powerful enough to cause harm?
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