Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/72195
SAFE SPA Too often spa owners, spa managers, and even spa therapists don't insist on a thorough health history intake process, placing clients at risk. While spa treatments are often designed to promote relaxation, some spa products have physiological effects on the body that could cause complications for some people; failure to define and enforce safety procedures can also lead to injuries. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS Like massage, spa treatments might be contraindicated completely, contraindicated without a doctor's release, contraindicated for a specific body area, or require adaptive measures and increased vigilance. The spa products chosen for a particular treatment, the surface area of the body it will cover, and the overall condition of the client need careful consideration. A spot treatment may be safe when a full-body application is contraindicated. If the product or its ingredients can penetrate the skin and enter circulation, it must be used with more caution. If the client is taking a prescription or over-the-counter medication that distorts his or her perception of hot, cold, pain, or pressure, postpone the treatment. For the same reason, clients under the influence of drugs or alcohol should not receive a treatment. Offering wine, champagne, or other alcoholic drinks as part of the spa package endangers the client and may affect the legal liability of the clinic or spa. An up-to-date medical dictionary, drug reference, and pathology reference books should be readily available to research unfamiliar conditions and medications. If there is any doubt about the suitability of a given treatment for a client, suggest a different treatment or postpone the treatment until you obtain a doctor's release. Ensure that your health history intake form asks questions about allergies to herbs, essential oils, iodine (present in seaweed), or other ingredients. Heat increases the irritation potential of any product being applied to the body, so clients are at greater risk for developing skin irritation during treatments like hot sheet wraps, hot stone massage, or hydrotherapy tub immersions. AROMATHERAPY CAUTIONS When therapeutic grade essential oils are used at low concentration (1–3 percent or 6–18 drops to every fluid ounce of carrier) and applied externally, negative reactions are minimal. Some oils contain chemical components that may cause liver or kidney irritation when used—even topically—for prolonged periods. Generally, an oil should be used continuously for no longer than two weeks to prevent sensitization of the kidneys, liver, or skin. Eucalyptus, peppermint, and rosemary essential oils will counteract the effects of many homeopathic remedies. The most likely undesirable effects common with use of essential oils are skin irritation and phototoxicity. When large amounts of certain oils are used topically, or when oils are used with heat, irritation is more likely. The term phototoxicity refers to an increased sensitivity to the sun. Oils containing compounds called coumarins and furocoumarins increase the skin's tendency to burn. Clients should avoid tanning for 24 hours after the application of these oils. The sidebar on page 123 lists oils that should be avoided or used with caution. BODY WRAP CAUTIONS Hot sheet wraps, cold sheet wraps, or wraps that promote aggressive detoxification should not be used on children, the elderly, pregnant women, or people with a heart condition or high blood pressure. Hot wraps are contraindicated if clients have recently been in a car accident or suffered a soft-tissue injury, and for clients with massagetherapy.com—for you and your clients 119