How to Determine if a Paraffin Treatment is Contraindicated

Paraffin treatments encompass dips, facials and other applications to the body. Paraffin wax is heated to soothe muscle aches and joint pain while hydrating the skin. This is a great service to add to your massage therapy or aesthetics business as it is very inexpensive. Not everyone can have a paraffin treatment, though, as there are some health conditions that are contraindicated.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Have your client fill out an information form that details any diseases or health problems they may have. Be on the lookout for arthritis, circulation problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, tendinitis, strains or sprains, edema, inflammation, reduced sensation and varicose veins. If the client has cold hands or feet due to a health problem, do not proceed.

2. Consult with your client to clarify any of these conditions. Arthritis is not contraindicated unless the client's joints are flaring up in an acute attack. The same applies for tendinitis, strains and sprains. If the client is medicated for high blood pressure, proceed with caution. Uncontrolled circulation problems, diabetes, edema, impaired nerve function and varicose veins are strictly contraindicated.

3. Look over the area being treated before applying the paraffin. Check for any open wounds, cuts or skin disorders. Do not apply paraffin on an area of skin that is broken. Paraffin is therapeutic for some common skin disorders, such as eczema and psoriasis, but applying paraffin to other disorders, such as shingles, rash, acne, athletes foot and even sunburn is not advised.

4. Watch your client carefully during any paraffin treatment. If you spot discomfort, remove the wax immediately and run the treated area under cold water.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful not to burn the client with paraffin that is too hot. Give the wax sufficient time to cool down after it is initially melted.