Contraindication
As a therapist, I often encounter questions from patients or colleagues such as:
What is recommended in case of...?
What should be avoided?
Is it advisable to...?
How should I perform...?
How much should I do...?
Examples include:
Can I fold, twist, straighten, stretch, or arch?
Should I press a trigger point or use a wide touch?
Can I increase the load or should I reduce it?
The answer to these questions is straightforward and depends on three key factors:
1. Thorough and accurate questioning of the patient by a medical or paramedical professional.
2. Proper diagnosis by a qualified medical professional, supported by documentation of the findings.
3. Professional certification and the therapist's prior therapeutic experience.
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Absolute vs. Relative Contraindications:
Contraindications can be classified into two categories:
Absolute Contraindications:
These are conditions where treatment is strictly prohibited due to the high risk of serious complications or even death. In such cases, no treatment can be justified.
Relative Contraindications:
These allow for treatment in certain situations where the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Alternatively, the risk can be mitigated through specific precautions.
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Therapist’s Responsibility.
It is the responsibility of the caregiver to:
Select appropriate therapeutic tools carefully, based on the patient's condition and needs.
Apply their professional expertise while adhering to ethical guidelines.
Prioritize the principle of “First, do no harm.”
Therapists must ask themselves:
Can I provide a high-quality, professional response aligned with the diagnosis and patient needs?
Do I need to consult a professional colleague before proceeding?
Should I refer the patient to another specialist or a more experienced professional?
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Approach to Treatment
Once the therapist determines that treatment is appropriate:
1. Conduct the treatment with full attention and ongoing communication (both direct and indirect) with the patient.
2. Work gradually, adjusting the approach based on the patient’s responses to touch, movement, stretching, exercises, intensity, and treatment cycles.
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Definition of Contraindication
A contraindication is a condition or factor that renders a specific medical or paramedical treatment, procedure, or examination unjustifiable due to the potential risk of harm to the patient.
Absolute Contraindications: Prohibit treatment under any circumstances.
Relative Contraindications: Allow treatment only when benefits outweigh the risks or when precautions can minimize potential harm.
By respecting contraindications, therapists ensure that their interventions are safe and ethically sound.
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