Anterior triangle of neck
Carotid artery, jugular vein,
cranial nerves, lymph nodes
Femoral triangle
Femoral vein, artery, nerve Popliteal fossa
Popliteal artery & vein,
tibial nerve & artery,
cruciate ligaments
Axilla
Axillary artery & vein,
nerves of brachial plexus,
cephalic vein
Xiphoid process
Xiphoid process of
lower sternum
Brachial region
Brachial artery, basilic
& brachial veins, lymph
nodes, nerves
Antecubital fossa
Radial nerve, median
nerve, brachial artery
Face
Eyes, temporal, TMJ forehead
Clavicle
Nerves of brachial plexus,
lymph nodes
Anterior wrist
Radial artery & nerve,
median nerve, ulnar nerve
& artery
Abdomen & Umbilicus
Many vulnerable structures
Suprapubic region
Urinary bladder, intestines,
lymph nodes, major blood vessels
Suboccipital region
Occipital and suboccipital
arteries & nerves
Posterior triangle of neck
Roots of brachial plexus,
subclavian artery & vein, ext.
jugular vein, CN XI, lymph nodes
Lower thoracic
Kidneys & lower ribs
Cubital tunnel
Ulnar nerve
Medial thigh
Branches of obturator artery
& nerve, common femoral
artery
Sacrum & coccyx
Sacrum & coccyx
(tailbone), nerves
Anterior knee & head of fibula
Patella, meniscus, ligaments,
common fibular nerve
Medial & lateral malleoli
Tibial nerve, posterior tibial artery,
vein, and nerve
Endangerment sites apply to every body
Individual clients may have specific areas where
massage is contraindicated or precautions required
(recent surgery, varicose veins, etc.)
Vulnerable structures: superficial veins, arteries, nerves
(VAN), also fragile bones, lymphatic structures, & bursae.
Review borders for each endangerment site.
Be cautious anywhere you can feel a pulse!
More endangerment sites on anterior side of body
Areas of Caution
for Massage Therapy
My Notes
Areas of caution (AKA Endangerment Sites) are areas on
the body where nerves, blood vessels, and other vital
structures are close to the surface and vulnerable to
injury. These areas require special care during massage to
avoid causing harm (e.g., avoid, or reduced pressure).
Anterior cervical
Hyoid bone, thyroid gland & cartilage,
sternal notch, trachea
More Info
https://mblexguide.com/areas-of-caution-massage-therapy/
