Which of the following is a contraindication for massage therapy?

Severe bruising or recent surgery is indeed a contraindication for massage therapy. This is because massage can exacerbate existing injuries or interfere with the healing process. When there is severe bruising, the tissues are already injured, and massage can increase inflammation or cause further damage to the capillaries, leading to more pain and complications.

In the case of recent surgery, the body is in a delicate healing phase. Massage could disrupt stitched tissues or affect the recovery of underlying structures. Practitioners are trained to recognize these conditions and advise against massage therapy to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients.

The other options, including muscle soreness, fatigue, and mild headaches, typically do not constitute contraindications for massage therapy. In fact, massage can often help alleviate muscle soreness and fatigue, making it a beneficial treatment option in those instances. Mild headaches can also be addressed with massage, depending on the cause and overall health of the individual.