Hot Stone Massage - What It Is And How It Works

Hot stone massage is perhaps one of the fastest growing techniques being used for massage therapy world wide. Even though it is relatively new, it is growing in popularity very quickly. The healing powers of this new massage make it one of the most desirable therapies. This type of massage was first developed in Sweden and it is just like it sounds. Hot stones are used with the more traditional massage to help people relive stress as well as aching tight muscles.

The use of the hot stones is quite different then the usual massage technique. A therapeutic body massage is done by using a gentle touch that slowly works the kinks out of your muscles. You may be surprised to find out that in some cases the massage therapist may even massage you without even touching you. That is where they come into play. The only time the therapist may have to touch you is to reposition the stones to ensure that you are getting the full benefits and that they are where they need to be.

One thing about the hot stones is that there is no pain involved at all, where as regular massage may hurt as the muscles are being working to loosen them up. The kneading action of traditional massage can sometimes be painful so, this is a great alternative.

The type of stone massage can vary depending on the therapist and the patient. The therapist will evaluate the patient's needs and tailor the therapy as needed. Basalt stones are the stones that are used as they can keep the heat in them for the length of the massage. These stones are usually heated up to 120 degrees before they are used.

Once the stones have been heated they are then placed strategically on the parts of the body that need to benefit the most. Usually body parts such as the arms and legs will require the lighter stones where as the heavier stones will be placed on the torso. The ones that are placed on the torso are usually 3 to 5 pound stones as they can penetrate the heat better to the thicker muscles.

The therapist will then take each stone and work it into the muscles by rubbing it where the problem areas are. Now keep in mind that the hot stone therapy does not require the massaging of the stones. You can simply place the stones in the areas of need and let the heat do the rest of the work.

If you suffer with back problems or stiff muscles then this may be just the thing for you. Talk with a massage therapist and see if a hot stone massage is a good option for you and your body.


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