How does a Hot Stone Massage work?
That’s why it’s called “Hot Stone Massage.” It helps relax stiff muscles and soft tissues all over the body.
During a Hot Stone massage, heated stones are put on specified body areas. The stones are usually basalt, a heat-retaining volcanic rock. The University of New Hampshire Health Services states that hot massage stones are heated to 130-145°F.
You can Place the stones:
On your spine
On your stomach
On your torso
On your face
On your palms
On your toes
Massage therapists may use heated stones when performing Swedish massage treatments like:
- Strokes
- Rotations
- Vibration
- Tapping
- Kneading
Hot Stone massages can also employ cold stones. After heated stones, apply cold stones to calm engorged blood vessels and soothe the skin.
HOT STONE MASSAGE 6 BENEFITS
Massages are considered alternative medicine. They’re a popular alternative remedy for numerous ailments. Some benefits of a hot stone massage include:
1. Pain and tension relief for muscles
Heat has long been used to relieve muscle pain. It aids in increasing blood flow to the area. It may also help minimise muscle spasms and promote flexibility. Cold therapy reduces swelling. Depending on your conditions, you may benefit from alternating hot and cold stones.
2. Reduces anxiety and stress
The American Massage Therapy Association says massage therapy can help relieve tension. The evidence backs them up. One study found that a 10-minute massage increased cardiac responses including stroke volume. A 15-minute onsite chair massage lowered stress compared to a 15-minute break without massage, according to a 1997 study.
This study indicated that post-operative massage helped reduce pain, tension, and anxiety in patients who had abdominal colorectal surgery.
3. Aids sleep
A 2006 research suggested massage may be an alternative to sleeping medications for insomniac adults. Back massage was found to aid relaxation and sleep. A 15-minute massage by parents helped sleep-deprived newborns in a 2001 research. They woke up more alert, energetic, and positive. Massage may help you sleep better, yet the reason is unknown.
4. May help alleviate autoimmune symptoms
Hot Stone massage may help fibromyalgia sufferers. Fibromyalgia is a persistent pain disorder. One study found that fibromyalgia patients who got a 30-minute massage slept better, had fewer trigger points, and had lower levels of substance P (a chemical implicated in pain transmission) than those who got relaxation therapy. But more research is needed before the massage is recommended for fibromyalgia.
Trusted Source found in 2013 that rheumatoid arthritis patients may benefit from a moderate-pressure massage, such as hot stone. After one month of massage therapy, participants reported decreased pain, better grip strength, and more range of motion.
5. Reduces cancer symptoms
This study looked at how massage influenced pain, exhaustion, tension, anxiety, nausea, and depression in 1,290 cancer patients over three years. Even those with severe cancer symptoms found relief from Swedish massage. Researchers believe human touch played a role.
6. Immuno-boosting
Massage may enhance the immune system. A single Swedish massage session boosted immunity, according to a 2010 study trusted Source. Arginine-vasopressin, a hormone that helps control blood pressure and water retention, is decreased after the massage.
Who can use a Hot Stone massage?
A Hot Stone massage can help relieve muscle tension, sleeplessness, and stress. If you have a persistent pain condition, ask your doctor if a hot stone massage may be beneficial.
WARNINGS
An expertly executed hot stone massage is generally safe. In some cases, it should be avoided. Consult your doctor if you have:
- Bleed easily or use blood thinners
- Skin burns
- Scabs
- Clotting in the past
- Recently had surgery
- Severe osteoporosis
- Low platelet ct (thrombocytopenia)
- Diabetes
A prenatal massage may help relieve stress and discomfort. Hot stones aren’t usually used on pregnant ladies. Pregnant women should only obtain massages with their doctor’s approval and from experienced prenatal massage therapists.
A cloth or sheet should always be placed between hot massage stones and your skin to prevent burns. Ask your therapist how they warm the stones. Use a professional massage stone warmer. Never use heated stones with a:
- microwave
- crockpot
- a plate
- oven
In summary
Hot Stone massages have been shown to alleviate stress, increase relaxation, and relieve pain and muscle tension. It can help with many issues.
More research is needed to understand why massage treatment works so well. It may be a matter of human touch. Touch provides a sense of safety and connection for many.
To ensure a great Hot Stone massage experience, only utilise a certified hot stone massage practitioner. You may be sore during or after your massage. A possible cause is deep tissue manipulation. You shouldn’t hurt. Notify your massage therapist if you feel uncomfortable or in pain during your treatment.
How Do I Book A Hot Stone Massage?
To book an appointment for Hot Stone Massage, Simply phone Jinnie on 0736 549 4477