Contraindications for Physiotherapy Procedures – these are medical reasons why certain procedures should not be performed. Physiotherapy procedures are an important part of comprehensive treatment for many conditions.
They help relieve pain, improve blood circulation, and speed up recovery after injuries or surgeries. However, despite their benefits, physiotherapy comes with its own contraindications. Ignoring these limitations can lead to worsening of the patient's condition or even serious complications. What are contraindications and why are they important? There are two main types:
- Absolute — when physiotherapy is strictly prohibited.
- Relative — when the procedure may be done, but only under specific conditions and under strict medical supervision.
Before prescribing physiotherapy, a doctor always reviews the patient’s medical history (anamnesis) and evaluates their general health. Main Absolute Contraindications Some conditions make physiotherapy dangerous. These include:
- Oncological diseases (especially during active tumor growth) — many types of physiotherapy may stimulate the growth of cancer cells.
- Severe cardiovascular insufficiency — physical exposure may place additional strain on the heart.
- Blood clots and thrombophlebitis — especially in the acute phase, as heat or electrical stimulation may cause the clot to dislodge.
- Feverish conditions — high temperature increases metabolic activity, and additional exposure can lead to overheating of the body.
- Pregnancy (especially first and last trimesters) — some procedures may affect the fetus or trigger premature labor.
Relative Contraindications: When It's Possible, But With Caution These conditions do not completely rule out physiotherapy, but require special care:
- Hypertension stage II–III — procedures are possible only if blood pressure is stable.
- Varicose veins — not all types of procedures are safe; especially avoid those involving heat therapy.
- Psychiatric disorders in acute phase — the patient may react unpredictably to the procedure.
- Cachexia (extreme physical wasting) — the body is too weak for additional stress.
- Epilepsy — it is especially important to avoid treatments with pulsating currents or bright lights.
Which Physiotherapy Procedures Have Specific Considerations? Not all methods are equally safe. Here are some examples:
- Ultrasound therapy: not recommended for acute inflammation, pus-forming processes, or cancer.
- Laser therapy: contraindicated with malignant tumors or increased skin sensitivity.
- Magnetotherapy: not recommended for bleeding disorders or if the patient has a pacemaker.
- Electrophoresis: not recommended for skin diseases, allergy to the medication used, or epilepsy.
- Light therapy (UV): contraindicated in systemic lupus erythematosus or increased light sensitivity.
Safety Rules: How to Minimize Risks To ensure physiotherapy is beneficial and not harmful, it's important to follow these simple rules:
- Always inform your doctor about chronic conditions, pregnancy, or allergies.
- Don't self-treat — the course should be prescribed by a qualified specialist.
- If you feel discomfort, pain, or dizziness during the session — report it immediately.
- Choose clinics with good reputations and experienced staff.
- Monitor how you feel after each session: if things get worse, stop the treatment and consult your physician.
Physiotherapy — helpful, but with caution Physiotherapy procedures are powerful tools in the hands of professionals. But like any tool, they require care and understanding. Knowing contraindications is key to safe and effective treatment. Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor questions, pay attention to your body, and remember: sometimes it's better to wait a bit than risk negative effects from a “helpful” procedure.