Pathology, Contraindications & Pharmacology
Recognize risk, adapt thoughtfully, and know when to pause or refer.
Lesson 13 of 18
Digestive Conditions
Digestive disorders may affect appetite, comfort, hydration, bowel function, and positioning. Symptoms such as nausea or abdominal pain have many possible causes, and massage cannot determine the cause. A recent meal, active symptoms, surgery, or medical restrictions can change what is comfortable. Avoid abdominal work unless appropriate, clearly consented to, and within scope.
Key points
- Reflux may worsen when lying flat soon after eating; use positioning that the client tolerates.
- Acute severe abdominal pain, rigid abdomen, vomiting blood, or black stools requires urgent medical assessment.
- Diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and dehydration may require postponement and infection-control precautions.
- Inflammatory bowel disease can have flares with fatigue, pain, or tenderness; check current status.
- Ask permission before abdominal contact and use draping that preserves privacy.
- After abdominal surgery, follow the surgeon's restrictions and avoid the site until cleared.
Key terms
- Reflux
- Backward movement of stomach contents toward the esophagus.
- Gastrointestinal
- Relating to the stomach and intestines.
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Chronic inflammatory disorders affecting the digestive tract.
- Dehydration
- A state in which body fluid loss exceeds replacement.
- Abdominal guarding
- Involuntary tightening of abdominal muscles that may accompany pain.
Memory tip
Ask about comfort and timing; never press through abdominal pain.
Clinical note
Sudden severe abdominal symptoms can be time-sensitive. Stop the session, arrange appropriate medical evaluation, and activate emergency services if warranted.
Unit checkpoint
Lock it in: match the terms, then test yourself.