Before You Book

When You Should Not Get a Massage: Fever, Injuries and Other Red Flags

A good spa will sometimes tell you not to book today. Here is when to wait, when to ask a doctor and what to mention before you start.

By the Lathika Spa team · Reviewed by Anjali Menon, Wellness Director · Published

Reception desk where guests can ask questions before booking
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Quick answer: Postpone a massage if you have a fever, a cold or flu, a fresh injury, a skin infection or rash, sunburn, or you feel unwell. Check with a doctor first if you are pregnant, have had recent surgery, have heart or blood-clot problems, take blood thinners or have cancer or another serious condition. Seek urgent care, not a massage, for a swollen painful calf, chest pain or sudden severe symptoms.

Key Takeaways

  • Wait if you have a fever, infection, fresh injury, rash or sunburn.
  • Ask your doctor first after surgery, in pregnancy or with heart or clot problems.
  • Always mention medication, especially blood thinners.
  • A swollen, painful calf needs urgent care, not massage.
  • DED Licence 114732
  • 4.9 from 944 Google reviews
  • Open 24 Hours · 365 Days
  • Therapists with 5+ years' experience

Why Would a Spa Tell You Not to Book?

Because some conditions make massage uncomfortable, unhelpful or unsafe. Our therapists ask about your health before every session for this reason. It is not about turning guests away; it is about making sure the hour does you good. Our medical disclaimer sets out our position in full.

When Should You Simply Postpone?

When you are unwell or have a short-term problem that will pass.

  • Fever, cold or flu. Rest first; come back when you feel well.
  • A fresh injury such as a sprain, strain or bad bruise in the last 48 to 72 hours.
  • A skin infection, open wound or spreading rash.
  • Sunburn, which makes any touch painful.
  • Stomach upset, nausea or diarrhoea.
  • After a heavy meal or alcohol. Wait a few hours.

Rebooking is easy. We do not take deposits, and our cancellation policy is simple.

When Should You Check With a Doctor First?

When you have a condition that could affect how your body responds to pressure. Speak to your doctor before booking if you:

  • are pregnant
  • have had surgery in the last few months
  • have a heart condition, very high or low blood pressure, or a history of blood clots
  • take blood-thinning medication
  • have cancer or are having treatment for it
  • have diabetes with reduced feeling in your feet or legs
  • have osteoporosis, a recent fracture or a joint replacement

Your doctor may say a gentle session is fine. Tell your therapist what they advised.

Which Symptoms Need Urgent Care Instead?

Never book a massage for these. Get medical help straight away:

  • a calf that is swollen, warm, red or painful, especially after a flight or long journey
  • chest pain or sudden shortness of breath
  • a sudden, severe headache
  • numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg
  • back pain with numbness around the groin or changes in bladder control

What Should You Tell Your Therapist?

Anything about your health that might matter, even if it seems small. Mention:

  • injuries, past or present, and where they are
  • medication you take, especially blood thinners
  • recent surgery or medical procedures
  • areas that are tender, numb or sensitive
  • skin allergies, including to oils or nuts

Everything you share stays between you and the team, as set out in our privacy policy.

What If You Are Not Sure?

Message us before you come. Send a WhatsApp message describing your situation, and we will tell you honestly whether to come in, wait or check with your doctor first. When in doubt, waiting a few days costs you nothing.

How Long Should You Wait After an Illness?

Until you have had a full day without fever and feel back to normal. Coming too soon can leave you exhausted, and you may still be contagious. After a stomach bug, wait until you are eating normally again. After surgery, follow your surgeon's timeline, not ours.

Is It Safe With Back Pain?

Everyday stiffness, usually yes. New, severe or spreading pain, no. If your back is simply tight from work, a session may help. If pain followed an injury, runs down a leg or comes with numbness, see a doctor first. Our guide on a stiff lower back after lifting explains the difference.

Not sure if today is right? Message us first.

Why Guests Choose Lathika Spa for Safe, Sensible Bookings

Five quick checks before you book.

  • Verify Us First

    Ajman DED Licence No. 114732, rated 4.9 from 944 Google reviews.

    See our Google profile
  • Know Who Treats You

    Ask for a senior specialist by name.

    Meet the therapists
  • One Written Price

    One price for every style. Nothing added at the end.

    Reserve your time
  • Easy to Reach

    Al Rawda 3, Ajman. Free parking nearby.

    Get directions
  • Facts at a Glance

    Topic
    Safe, Sensible Bookings
    Best for
    Guests unsure whether a massage is safe for them today
    Price
    AED 99 / 60 min · AED 150 / 90 min
    Hours
    Open 24 hours, 7 days

Questions on This Topic

Can I get a massage when I have a cold?

It is better to wait. You will not enjoy lying face down with a blocked nose, the session may leave you more tired, and you could pass the illness on to your therapist and other guests.

Do I need a doctor's note to book?

No. But if you have a condition on our list, such as recent surgery, pregnancy or a heart condition, speak to your doctor first and tell your therapist what they advised.

Find us

Where to Find Us

Damascus Street - Al Rawda 3 - Ajman - United Arab Emirates. Open 24 hours, with free parking nearby. About 5.3 km from Al Jurf and 5.5 km from Al Rashidiya 2 in a straight line.

Call or WhatsApp +971 52 480 6393 any hour, or simply walk in.