Triple Bypass Client

[krascow_jr]

I am meeting with my first paying client later this week and I am excited, but nervous.  He tells me he recently had a triple heart bypass, but his cardiologist recommended he have regular massages to help him relax.  Is there anything I need to be cautious about here, or just concentrate on relaxing my client????Feeling nervous and lacking confidence right now!!

 

[MissMoi]

i'd want to ask him how his scar is coming along; and determine whether you should avoid it or give some scar tissue massage. i do a pretty thorough pec massage, and this area obviously is compromised. same thing with the ribs; especially if he had traditional open-heart surgery (as opposed to the 'keyhole' method). the ribs and intercostals may be tender. if they are really tender, i'd ask him if lying prone is uncomfortable or difficult.otherwise, i'd give him a nice relaxing massage~ just as the doc ordered.good luck  

 

[BiPolarBear]

Thank you so much for your advice. I really appreciate it!  You gave me some good questions to ask him. Thanks for your help.  I feel better about this appointment now

 

[grandma zaza]

Triple Bypass Client

How exciting, his cardioligist recommended massage! This is also a great opportunity to market yourself.When your client comes in, after the massage give him some of your business cards he can hand to his cardiologist, or call the cardiologist (with client permission) and thank the cardio for the referral and offer to come in and bring some of your business cards/brochures to their office. In return for referring you to their patients, you can offer the cardio a free 1/2 or hour massage!

 

[: )]

Thank you! What a great idea!  I will make sure I get some business cards to his cardiologist.  I love this forum..so many helpful people with gret ideas...this really has boosted my confidence.  Thank you so much for your help

 

[Pompal 09.]

Triple Bypass Client

Are you familiar with contraindications of working on someone post surgery, particularly open heart? It might be worth contacting the client's doctor prior to working on him to make sure you have a clear understanding of the potential problems you might run into with this individual. If this doc is recommending massage, he/ she might be an easy one to access and discuss the clients' health. Of course, the client has to give permission prior to you contacting the md.

 

[Joe P]

A big squash relaxation massage coupled with some arteriole flow and venous return would be a great thing for your new client.  Be careful though  of any medications he is taking, such as blood thinners, or pain meds.  He might have an altered sense of pain (if on any meds), and may not have an accurate perception of pressure, so be careful not to damge anything.  Also if he is on blood thinners you may want to be careul with the circulation- based massage.  The best of luck to you with your first paying client!!  

 

[Edward Bongshanks]

Triple Bypass Client

especially if he had traditional open-heart surgery (as opposed to the 'keyhole' method). the ribs and intercostals may be tender. if they are really tender, i'd ask him if lying prone is uncomfortable or difficult.

good luck  

With whatever approach they used they most likely used a rib approximator(sp).  It's a rib spreader for lack of a better word.  All rib attachments will be hurting.  I would concentrate on relaxation.....be wary of playing with the scar as so many of us were taught to do....it takes very long time to heal.

I would suggest a semi reclined(pillows)/wedge position.

GREAT luck to you with your first client!!!

Robyn