Ever hear of a hot stone massage? Have you wondered what it is and how it is different from a Swedish massage? There are many benefits to using this type of treatment. We encourage you to try one for yourself.
What is a hot stone massage?
Hot stone massage is a wonderful choice for people who have muscle pain and tension or who simply want to relax. This type of therapeutic massage is similar to a Swedish massage. A massage therapist uses heated stones in addition to their hands. This massage eases muscle tension, improves blood flow, and relieves pain by using heated stones.
Method
“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,” explains Healthline.com. You typically don’t wear clothes for a hot stone massage unless you’ll feel more comfortable wearing your underwear. You will be covered with a sheet.
Benefits
There are many benefits to receiving a hot stone massage:
- ease muscle tension and pain
- reduces stress and anxiety
- improve blood flow
- alleviate pain
- promote relaxation
- promotes sleep
- may help relieve symptoms of autoimmune diseases
- may decrease cancer symptoms
- may boost immunity
Autoimmune diseases
According to Healthline.com, 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 study 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”.
Give us a call at 727-772-0220 to try a hot stone massage.
I Got Your Back Massage Therapy is conveniently located at 1684 Alternate 19 in Palm Harbor. Our massage therapists are skilled in a number of techniques to help you improve your physical and mental health, including relaxation massage, deep tissue massage, hot stone massage, reiki, and aromatherapy. Contact the professionals at I Got Your Back Massage Therapy and set up an appointment.
