Indications and Contraindications
According to Ministry of Health in Japan, and the book “The Theory of Anma, Massage, and Shiatsu” published by Toyo Ryoho Gakko Kyokai Kyokasho Shippitsu Shoiinkai, in 2004, Shiatsu is an Alternative and/or Preventive Medicine.
Shiatsupractors must have knowledge of medical foundations and clinical experience in order to develop a treatment plan. The following are some examples of conditions which may be improved and/or prevented by receiving Shiatsu Therapy.

Indications*
- Nervous system disorder
E.g.: neuralgia, paralysis, convulsions, stroke recovery, polio, insomnia - Dyskinesia
E.g.: rheumatoid arthritis, muscle aches, muscular atrophy, myositis, tendonitis, adhesion ablation, joint deformation, recovery of broken bones, dislocations and sprains - Digestive system disorder
E.g.: gastroptosis, chronic gastritis, gastro-intestine atony, chronic enteritis, chronic constipation - Circulatory system disorder
E.g.: heart neurosis, hyperemia, congestion, anemia - Urinary organ & reproductive organ disorder
E.g.: paralysis, bladder convulsions, cystitis, mammary gland disorder - Metabolism disorder
E.g.: gout, beriberi - Fatigue recovery & Rehabilitation
*depending on the condition, it may be necessary to follow a Medical Doctor’s diagnosis and/or advice for the treatments.

Contraindications
- Acute disorder
E.g.: acute disease with fever, acute communicable disease - Malignant tumors
E.g.: cancer, sarcoma - Acute poisoning
E.g.: snake poison, insect poison - Acute inflammation
E.g.: peritonitis, appendicitis - Bleeding disease
E.g.: hemoptysis, bloody vomit, right after cerebral hemorrhage - Trauma
E.g.: wounds, broken bones, right after dislocation - Serious internal organ disease
E.g.: chronic valvular disease, nephritis - Vessel disease
E.g.: aneurysm, serious arteriosclerosis - Ulcer
E.g.: gastric ulcer, duodenal ulcer - Tuberculosis
E.g.: pulmonary tuberculosis, back bone caries - Venereal disease, suppuration disease
E.g.: syphilis, gonorrhea
Code of Ethics
All members are held responsible for behaving and practicing Shiatsu Therapy in strict accordance with the Code of Ethics. It applies to the practitioner/client and instructor/student relationships.
CSSBC members shall consider above all the health and well being of the client. Members also recognize their intrinsic involvement in the total community of life on the planet Earth.
Members conduct themselves in a professional and ethical manner, performing only those services for which they are qualified, and represent their education, certification, professional affiliations and other qualifications honestly. They do not in any way profess to practice medicine or psychotherapy, unless licensed by their province to do so.
CSSBC members keep accurate client records, including profiles of the body/mind history. They discuss any problem areas that may contraindicate use of Shiatsu Therapy and refer clients to appropriate medical professionals when indicated.
CSSBC members pay close attention to cleanliness and professional appearance of self and clothing, of linens and equipment, and of the office/clinic environment in general. They endeavor to provide a relaxing atmosphere, giving attention to reasonable scheduling and clarity about fees.
CSSBC members maintain clear and honest communication with their clients, and keep all information, whether medical or personal, strictly confidential. They clearly disclose techniques used, appropriately identifying each in the scope of their professional practice.
CSSBC members are encouraged to establish and maintain trust in the client relationship and to establish clear boundaries and an atmosphere of safety.
CSSBC members respect the client’s physical/emotional state, and do not abuse clients through actions, words or silence, nor take advantage of the therapeutic relationship. They, in no way, participate in sexual activity with the client. They consider the client’s comfort zone for touch and for degree of pressure, and honor the client’s requests as much as possible within personal, professional and ethical limits. They do not use elbows, knees or feet in the application of pressure to the client’s body. They acknowledge the inherent worth and individuality of each person and therefore do not unjustly discriminate against clients and colleagues.
CSSBC members present Shiatsu Therapy in a professional and compassionate manner representing themselves and their practice accurately and ethically. They do not give fraudulent information, nor misrepresent the CSSBC or themselves to students or clients, nor act in a manner derogatory to the nature and positive intention of the CSSBC. They conduct their business honestly.
CSSBC members respect the standards set by the various CSSBC modalities, and they respect service marks, trademarks and copyright laws. Professional courtesy includes respecting all ethical professionals in speech, writing, or otherwise, and communicating clearly with others.
CSSBC members strive for professional excellence through regular assessment of personal and professional strengths and weaknesses, and by continued education and training.