People suffering from hypertension may be able to receive massage even though the effects of many techniques normally employed during a massage may not be desirable. If the hypertension is severe, consultation with your M.D. may be required to determine the appropriateness of massage, or for any treatment modifications that may be necessary.

Hypertension occurs when blood pressure readings are ¹⁴⁰/₉₀ mm Hg or higher. The upper reading is called the systolic pressure and is a measurement of pressure exerted on the walls of the arteries during contraction of the heart. The lower number is a measurement of diastolic pressure, which demonstrates the level of elasticity of the arteries and arterioles as well as the level of function of the aortic valve. This occurs during the period of relaxation when the heart fills with blood.

There are two types of hypertension. One type is considered benign (a.k.a. primary, essential or idiopathic hypertension). It is a silent and long-term condition of unknown origin. The other type is called malignant or secondary because it is secondary to another pathology such as diabetes or atherosclerosis. This type has a potentially rapid progression.

At the massage therapy clinic your blood pressure will be taken both before and after each treatment. Massage can be used to decrease peripheral resistance by increasing peripheral vascular flow. Thus, the therapist will work primarily on your hands, arms, legs and feet. S.N.S. activity should also be decreased, which can lead to a decrease in heart rate, decrease in force of contraction of the heart and reduction of constriction of peripheral vasculature. This can be achieved with slow, non-painful techniques and breathing work. Your therapist will not want to increase venous return to the heart; therefore short, local techniques will be applied, as opposed to long, general strokes used during a typical relaxation massage.

There may also be some positioning modifications. You will probably be positioned supine or lying on your right side to prevent any undue stress on your heart. Your head and upper trunk may also be propped up to decrease intrathoracic pressure.

And after all of this you can finally receive a massage. Relay any concerns you have to your therapist, and together, you can come up with a course of treatment that is safely catered to your condition and that you can enjoy.