Therapies and Existing Health Conditions

Why your health conditions matter

Health conditions can affect the safety of complementary approaches. NCCIH gives an example: with glaucoma, some yoga poses may not be safe. [1] It advises choosing a practitioner who understands how to work with people with your specific needs, even if general well-being is your goal. [1] This page gathers cautions from NCCIH and the NHS. It is general information. Your own clinician decides what is right for you. Never stop prescribed treatment on your own.

Quick reference

Heart and blood pressure

We did not find a source in the pages we read that gives a general rule for heart disease and complementary therapies. Proper evidence not found for a blanket statement. Two specific points are sourced: severe high blood pressure may call for modifications in yoga, [3] and some herbal medicines should be avoided with medicines for high blood pressure, among others such as statins. [2] Ask your cardiology team before heat, cold-water or intensive breathing practices. See hydrotherapy safety and breathwork safety.

Bleeding, bruising and clots

Besides the NHS cautions above, NCCIH notes that serious massage side effects such as a blood clot, nerve injury or bone fracture have been reported, in some cases with vigorous massage or people at increased risk of injury, such as elderly people. [5] Tell any massage therapist about clots, blood thinners and bone problems first.

Bones and osteoporosis

For yoga, NCCIH advises new practitioners to avoid extreme practices such as headstands, shoulder stands, the lotus position and forceful breathing. [3] Osteoporosis-specific modification advice is covered on yoga safety. Ask your clinician before spinal manipulation or deep-pressure work.

Cancer

See coordinating complementary and medical care. In short, NCCIH says not to replace or delay medical treatment with unproven approaches, and to consult your providers before adding anything. [4]

Mental health

Meditation and mindfulness are usually considered to have few risks, but few studies have looked at harms, so definite statements about safety cannot be made. [6] A 2020 review found about 8 percent of participants had a negative effect from meditation, similar to psychological therapies, most often anxiety and depression. [6] If you have a mental health condition, tell your clinician and the instructor; see meditation difficulties and distressing experiences. Do not use a therapy in place of treatment for depression, anxiety or psychosis without talking to your clinician.

Diabetes, medicines and supplements

Supplements can interact with medicines. NCCIH notes that some products may interact in harmful ways with medications. [7] See medication interactions and existing conditions.