Getting sick isn’t fun, and I’ve heard from several clients lately that they are dying for a massage to deal with the body aches and pains that come from colds and flu and infections.

Trouble is, it isn’t a good idea to get a massage while sick or on antibiotics. The thought is that since massage increases circulation of blood and lymph fluid, it could accelerate spread of infection to other parts of the body. It might also interfere with the actions of antibiotics and the lymph system’s ability to contain and kill off infections.

It’s tough to turn down a massage when that’s exactly what your body craves. I suggest to people they think of alternatives to feeling better without a massage until they have finished their pills.

One great alternative is a good Epsom salt soak in a tub. Be careful not to have the water too hot, as raising your core temperature too high can mimic the actions of a high fever. Use warm bath water, tepid enough so after five or so minutes you add a little more hot water. Follow the directions on the container, usually one to two cups of Epsom salt per tub, and soak for 20 minutes.

Epsom salts have been used for muscle aches for centuries because they contain magnesium sulfate, which eases muscle aches. I sometimes wonder if the Romans fought their way into England not to grab land, but a good source of Epsom. The Romans knew a lot about fighting and soaking.

One of my clients wants to soak, but is on antibiotics for a bladder/kidney infection. Hot tub soaks aren’t recommended for these infections, but there are some good alternatives. One is to use Epsom salts in a foot bath. Again, easy on the water temperature, use a quarter cup, and stay in for 20 minutes.

If you can’t do a foot bath, try using warm compresses soaked in Epsom salt and water. The compresses go over the achy area, covered by a thick, warm towel and an insulated moist heat pack. I use microwave packs instead of the plug-in kind to avoid the risk of electric shock.

And I’ll see you in the office for a massage as soon as you have finished your pills!