Why I Can No Longer Offer Deep Tissue Massage: Navigating My Life Massage Therapy Business with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension and Empty Sella Syndrome

Living with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH)

Hi everyone,

After a recent hospitalization and official diagnosis, I am making an important change in my massage business.

I was recently officially diagnosed with Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH). I had previously been diagnosed with Empty Sella Syndrome, and the two conditions are often associated with one another.

Over the past several years, I have noticed changes in my health that have gradually become more significant. After extensive medical testing, I finally have answers. While I continue working with my healthcare team to manage this condition, I also have to make some changes to protect my own health.

One of those changes is that I will no longer be offering deep pressure or deep tissue massage.

This has not been an easy decision. Those of you who have been with me for years know that I have always customized every session to the individual. However, deep pressure work requires sustained force, leaning, bracing, and repeated physical effort from the therapist. In my case, that level of physical demand has become a health risk.

Please understand that this decision is about safety not ability.

I can still provide medium to firm therapeutic pressure when appropriate, and I am happy to incorporate Bamboo Fusion Massage for clients who enjoy a deeper-feeling therapeutic session. Bamboo allows me to achieve effective results without placing the same physical demands on my body.

Going forward, deep pressure and deep tissue massage will no longer be available. I appreciate your understanding and your respect for this boundary.

I also wanted to share this because there may be others living with IIH or Empty Sella Syndrome who are searching for information. These conditions affect everyone differently, and treatment plans should always be individualized. If you have been diagnosed with either condition, talk with your healthcare provider about what activities are appropriate for you.

Protecting your long-term health is important, and there is nothing wrong with modifying activities when your body tells you it is time.

Thank you to everyone who has supported me over the years. My goal is to continue providing the highest quality therapeutic massage possible while also taking care of my own health so I can continue doing the work I love.

With care and support,

Suzan Walker LMT

References and Supporting Information

Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension, also known as IIH, is a condition involving increased pressure inside the skull and around the brain. Symptoms may include headaches, nausea, ringing in the ears, fatigue, neck pain, shoulder pain, dizziness, temporary vision changes, blind spots, and other neurological symptoms. Cleveland Clinic explains that IIH occurs from cerebrospinal fluid buildup around the brain and can affect vision.

The NHS notes that intracranial hypertension headaches may be worse when coughing or straining. It also states that temporary vision loss may be triggered by coughing, sneezing, or bending down.

Empty Sella Syndrome involves cerebrospinal fluid entering the sella turcica area and flattening or compressing the pituitary gland. It may present with symptoms such as headache and visual changes, and it can be associated with intracranial hypertension.

NIOSH identifies forceful work, awkward or unnatural postures, repetitive movement, and maintaining the same position for extended periods of time as workplace ergonomic risk factors. These types of demands can contribute to work-related musculoskeletal disorders and physical fatigue.

OSHA also notes that workers can be exposed to injury risks through lifting, bending, pushing, pulling, awkward body postures, and repetitive tasks. These risks are relevant because deep pressure massage requires sustained force, leaning, bracing, and repeated physical effort from the massage therapist.

Because deep pressure massage requires sustained force, bracing, leaning, and repeated physical exertion from the therapist, it is no longer safe for me to provide while managing IIH and Empty Sella Syndrome.

Helpful references and websites

Here are good websites you can list at the bottom for people who want to learn more:

Cleveland Clinic – Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21968-idiopathic-intracranial-hypertension

NHS – Intracranial Hypertension

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/intracranial-hypertension/

StatPearls / NCBI – Empty Sella Syndrome

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK541002/

NORD – Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases/idiopathic-intracranial-hypertension/

Intracranial Hypertension Research Foundation

https://ihrfoundation.org/

Massage Therapy Disclaimer

Massage therapy is a professional healthcare service but is not a substitute for medical treatment. A massage therapist cannot diagnose, treat, or prevent medical conditions.

Recommendations may include products, services, or referrals to a licensed physician or mental health professional.

*Clients interested in therapeutic bodywork & massage, wellness education, or upcoming classes are encouraged to explore the services offered at Connective Integration Massage Therapy in Arlington, Texas.

Copyright © 2007-2026. Connective Integration Massage Therapy by Suzan Walker, LMT. All rights reserved. DMCA Protected. (Licensed in Texas as Susan D. Walker, LMT #104431) Official website: www.massageandhealingdfw.com | 817-966-1020 | Third-party listings may contain inaccurate information.