What should a therapist do before providing massage to a client with a history of stroke?

Obtaining medical clearance from the client’s healthcare provider is essential before providing massage to a client with a history of stroke. This step ensures that the therapist is fully aware of the client’s current health status, including any potential complications, contraindications, or specific considerations related to their recovery. Stroke can lead to various physical and neurological changes, and a healthcare provider can help identify any limitations or special precautions that should be taken during a massage.

Medical clearance can include assessing the client's current medications, physical abilities, and any residual effects from the stroke, such as weakness, coordination issues, or sensory changes. This information helps the therapist tailor the massage to fit the client's unique needs safely and effectively, promoting a therapeutic environment while minimizing risks.

The other options, while they may contribute to the overall understanding of the client's well-being, do not address the critical need for professional medical advice when dealing with a history of stroke. Light stretching may be inappropriate depending on the client's condition, dietary habits are generally not relevant to the immediate safety of a massage session, and conducting a detailed physical assessment is important but should be done in conjunction with medical advice rather than as a standalone action.