If you’re a massage practitioner, your practice can sometimes include working with Ozempic takers for your clients. Ozempic is a prescription medication that is often used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes and for weight loss. What you might not realize, though, is that it can affect your massage delivery too. With working with Ozempic takers, your techniques have to adapt in a way that keeps them safe and comfortable. Let’s explore your options for altering your techniques.
Understanding Ozempic and Its Effects
Ozempic works by affecting blood sugar and delayed digestion and can cause a range of side effects, including nausea, dizziness, and dehydration. These can all affect a client’s response to massage in different ways.
One important fact is that Ozempic takers will have low blood sugar. In case they have not consumed any food in a session, they can become dizzy. Check your client first, at all times, and make them report how they’re feeling, whether they have recently consumed any food, and whether they have noticed any reaction towards the medication.
How to Adjust Massage Techniques
- Use Gentle Pressure
Clients on Ozempic become sensitive to deep pressure. Dehydration, a secondary effect of the medication, can cause tissue and muscle tissue to become tender. For deep tissue, apply lighter, gliding strokes in its place. Relaxation will follow in the client with less tension placed in their body.
- Focus on Hydrating and Perfusion
Since Ozempic will slow down your digestion, bloating and a sensation of fullness at times can occur. Gentle abdominal massage can sometimes ease them, but first, make sure to seek permission from your client. Have them hydrate with water both in preparation and afterward. Hydrating will remove toxins and can settle any nausea experienced.
- Be Cautious with Blood Sugar
A client on Ozempic can have unpredictable blood sugar levels. In the event that they become dizzy and faint, stop the massage immediately. Offer them a sip of water and make them sit down for a break. Having a small snack, for instance, crackers, at your fingertips in case of an attack is a precaution worth taking.
Safety Tips for Massaging a Client with Ozempic
- Communicate Before and During the Massage
Always start with a conversation. Ask your client if they have eaten, how they’re feeling, and if they have any concerns. Check in during a session regularly. Stop and adjust your technique if, at any point during a session, your client feels unwell.
- Avoid Overwhelming Stimulation
Since Ozempic acts through moisture and digestion, avoid strong techniques such as deep tissue work or strong stretches. Instead, use calm motions that stimulate calm, not stimulation.
- Watch for Signs of Discomfort
If your client feels uncomfortable or dizzy, stop at once. Have them sit up gently and give them water. Tell them to contact their doctor if symptoms don’t go away.
Final Thoughts
Massaging a client taking Ozempic involves additional care and caution. With soft pressure, effective communication, and a grasp of the impact of the medication, a safe and beneficial massage can be delivered. As a precaution, your first concern must always be your client’s welfare, and adapt your techniques appropriately.
FAQ’s for Ozempic uses massage clients
1. Can I give a deep tissue massage to a patient who is taking Ozempic?
It’s best not to apply deep tissue massage to Ozempic clients. Dehydration and sensitization of the muscles can occur with the medication, and deep tissue can cause sore and aching feelings. Instead, apply soft techniques for circulation and relaxation. Monitor your clients regularly to make them comfortable during a session.
2. Should I ask my client whether she ate beforehand?
Yes, it’s worth asking about. Ozempic can cause blood sugar to drop, and clients can become dizzy and feel weak. In case they haven’t eaten, during the massage session, they can become uncomfortable. Ask them to have a balanced blood sugar level during the session and recommend a light snack beforehand.
3. What can I do when my client experiences nausea during a massage?
If your patient feels nausea, stop the massage immediately. Have them sit down and have them sip a little water. In case of urgency, have them sit down for a little while. Do not apply pressure over the abdomen, for it will make them even more nauseous. In case symptoms become recurring, refer them for a doctor’s consultation.
4. How can I most effectively hydrate my client after a massage?
Encourage your client to hydrate with a lot of water both before and following their massage session. Because Ozempic can cause dehydration, hydrating them is important. Offer them herbal tea and drinks with high concentrations of electrolytes in case additional hydrating support is desired.
5. Are there any areas I should not massage?
While you don’t necessarily have to avoid certain areas, exercise caution with the abdominal area. Since Ozempic works with digestion, abdominal massage can lead to indigestion. Ask your client initially, at all times, if she is comfortable with working in that area. Gentle, relaxing techniques work best in such a scenario.
