Hot stone massage therapy helps with tension, eases muscle stiffness and increases circulation and metabolism. Each 90 minute hot stone massage therapy session provides deeper muscle relaxation by placing smooth, water-heated stones on specific points on the body. Massage therapists also incorporate a customized massage, while using hot stones which offers even more benefits to your body.

Hot stone massage therapy uses the direct heat of the stones to relax the muscles, allowing the therapist to get deeper into the muscle layers. Combining hot stone protocols with a full body massage provides an effective healing experience.

How does it work?

The hot stones expand the blood vessels, which encourages blood flow throughout the body. The hot stones have a sedative effect that can relieve chronic pain, reduce stress and promote deep relaxation.

The stones may be placed:

• along your spine
• on your stomach
• on your chest
• on your face
• on your palms
• on your feet and toes

Massage therapists will sometimes hold heated stones as they massage your body using Swedish massage techniques. Cold stones may also be used after hot stones to calm any engorged blood vessels and to soothe the skin.

 

What are some of the benefits to Hot Stone Massage Therapy?

• Helps to relieve pain associated with fibromyalgia, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and other chronic conditions. (always consult with your doctor if you struggle with any of these conditions)
• Decreases pain and muscle spasms
• Reduces chronic stress and tension
• Increases flexibility in joints, aiding in easier mobility and movement
• Relieves pain and tension created by strained and contracted muscles
• Improves sleep
• Reduces stress and anxiety

 

Warning

When preformed by a trained Massage Therapist, hot stone massage is generally safe.  But there are some circumstances where it should be avoided.

Consult your doctor before getting a massage if you have:

• a bleeding disorder or take blood thinners
• burns on your skin
• open wounds
• a history of blood clots
• had surgery in the last 6 weeks
• a fracture or severe osteoporosis
• a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
• diabetes

If you are expecting, most massage therapists won’t use hot stones on pregnant women. If you’re pregnant, consult with your doctor before scheduling a massage appointment with a trained prenatal massage therapist.

 

With that I hope you found this article helpful!

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Sources:

Information pulled April 5, 2019

Image by Social Butterfly from Pixabay

https://www.massageenvy.com/massage/massage-types/hot-stone-envy/

https://www.healthline.com/health/hot-stone-massage#risks-and-warnings