STONE MASSAGE

A hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy. It’s used to help you relax and ease tense muscles and damaged soft tissues throughout your body.

During a hot stone massage, smooth, flat, heated stones are placed on specific parts of your body. The stones are usually made of basalt, a type of volcanic rock that retains heat. According to the University of New Hampshire Health Services, hot massage stones are heated to between 130 and 145 degrees.

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 may hold heated stones as they massage your body using Swedish massage techniques such as:

• long strokes

• circular movements

• vibration

• tapping

• kneading

Sometimes, cold stones are also used during a hot stone massage. Cold stones may be used after hot stones to calm any engorged blood vessels and to soothe the skin. Contrasting using hot, cold, hot has many therapeutic affects. Notably it creates a pumping action of the vascular and lymph system creating a detoxification response. Contrasting is supportive for both Orthopedic conditions and in the enhancement of any energywork session.

Heat has long been used to ease muscle tension and pain. It helps increase blood flow to the affected area. It may also reduce muscle spasms and increase flexibility and range of motion. Cold therapy helps relieve inflammation. Depending on your symptoms, alternating hot and cold stones during your massage may be helpful.

Hot stone massage may relieve painful conditions such as fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread, chronic pain. According to a 2002 study, people with fibromyalgia who received a 30-minute massage slept longer, had fewer trigger points, and had decreased levels of substance P (a substance involved in transmitting pain signals) than people with the condition who received relaxation therapy. More research is needed, however, before massage becomes a standard fibromyalgia treatment.

A 2013 studyTrusted Source found that people with rheumatoid arthritis may benefit from a moderate-pressure massage, such as hot stone massage. Participants in the study experienced less pain, greater grip strength, and a greater range of motion after one month of massage therapy.

When performed by a trained therapist, a hot stone massage is generally safe. 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

To prevent burns, there should always be a barrier, such as a towel or sheet, between hot massage stones and your skin. Check with your therapist to see how they heat the stones. A professional massage stone heater should be used. Never use stones that have been heated with a:

• microwave

• slow cooker

• hot plate

• oven

Studies show that a hot stone massage may be a helpful way to reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and ease pain and muscle tension. It may be helpful for a variety of conditions and circumstances.

At Branford Hall Career Institute I received 24 Hours of education for Hot and Cold Stone Therapy in Complimentary Bodywork class. With some extensive DVD’s and the help of willing volunteers I have become proficient in Hot and or Cold Stone.

60 Minutes - $130

90 Minutes - $150