The following points should be applied whenever possible:
1. Make the athlete comfortable
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place the body in the proper position on the table
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place a pad under the areas of the body to be massaged
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keep the room at a constant 22.2 C (72 F) temperature
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respect the athlete's privacy
2. Develop a confident, gentle approach when massaging.
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assume a position that is easy both on you and the athlete
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avoid using too harsh a stroke, or further injury may occur
3. To ensure proper lymphatic and venuos drainage, stroke toward the heart whenever possible
4. Know when not to massage
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never give a massage when there may be a local or general infection. To do so may encourage the spread or aggravation of the condition.
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never apply massage directly over a recent injury; limit stroking to the periphery. Massaging over recent injuries may dislodge the clot organization.
