Massage Therapy and Eye/Dental Considerations: What Your Therapist Needs to Know

Massage therapists ask about contact lenses and dentures to prevent injury and ensure comfort during treatment.

Contact Lenses

Risks During Massage

• Increased intraocular pressure: Prone position with face in cradle compresses orbits; deep tissue work near eyes further raises pressure. Risk of corneal distortion, lens adhesion, or discomfort.
• Dislodgement: Head movement, face cradle pressure, or client rubbing eyes can displace lenses, risking corneal abrasion.
• Dryness: Reduced blink rate in relaxed state + airflow = dry lenses.

Therapist Adjustments

• Remove lenses before session (bring case/solution).
• If kept in: avoid direct orbital pressure, use softer face cradle, check comfort frequently.
• Client should keep eyes closed and avoid rubbing.

Dentures

Risks During Massage

• Dislodgement/aspiration: Deep relaxation → reduced pharyngeal tone; dentures can loosen, be swallowed, or aspirated (especially supine).
• Fracture: Pressure on jaw/face (TMJ work, intraoral massage) can crack acrylic.
• Soft tissue injury: Loose dentures rub mucosa.

Therapist Adjustments

• Remove dentures before session (store safely in water/container).
• If kept in: avoid jaw/face pressure, monitor for gagging/discomfort, keep client slightly elevated if supine.

Communication Is Key

Inform your therapist about any medical devices, prosthetics, implants, or sensory impairments. This allows personalized, safe bodywork.