Name a common contraindication for massage therapy.

Acute inflammation is considered a common contraindication for massage therapy because it signifies an active inflammatory process, which can lead to increased pain, swelling, and potential tissue damage if manipulated further. When inflammation is present, the affected area is typically sensitive, and massage could exacerbate these symptoms, potentially causing more harm than good. Massage therapy might also increase blood flow to the area, which could worsen the inflammatory response.

On the other hand, chronic tension, muscle soreness, and dehydration, while they may require careful consideration during treatment, do not inherently prevent a massage from being performed. In fact, chronic tension can often benefit from massage, muscle soreness can be alleviated by appropriate techniques, and dehydration can be addressed through hydration and muscle lining techniques post-massage rather than being a strict contraindication. Therefore, recognizing acute inflammation as a contraindication highlights the importance of assessing clients properly before proceeding with massage therapy.