The Wondrous Effects of a Hot Stone Massage

Muscle Relaxation

The heat from the stones helps your most tense muscles relax, because a massage therapist can manipulate deep tissue more effectively. Overly tense muscles can be difficult to release with typical massage techniques. The heated stones may provide the extra relaxation you need for the massage to be the most beneficial in releasing tension and easing sore muscles.

Pain Relief

While all massage types can relieve pain caused by tense muscles, injuries, or stiff joints, heated stone massages can provide greater relief. The hot stones allow the massage therapist to penetrate deeper, so even your most tense, pain-causing muscles can be relaxed. You find the relief to be greater than after a Swedish or deep-tissue massage that does not incorporate heat. It is important, however, to communicate with your massage therapist if the stones are too hot or if the pressure is too harsh on your injury. Pain or discomfort during the massage can cause more harm than good for some people.

Improved Circulation

As the heated stones rest on trigger points in your body, they penetrate into body tissues. This causes your blood vessels to open up, resulting in improved circulation. Poor circulation can cause fatigue, which tenses muscles and causes a buildup of fluid and lactic acid in the muscles. When you improve your circulation, more oxygen is delivered to the muscles, which eases aches and pains.

Mental Benefits

Hot stone massages can provide release of mental stress and tension, in addition to your physical muscles. This massage treatment can also combat some symptoms of anxiety disorders and depression.

Stone Therapy Is Not For Everyone

Heated stone massages are beneficial for most people, and by communicating to your therapist, can be adapted to suit your individual needs. However, heated stone therapy is not suitable for people who have:

• High blood pressure
• Skin conditions
• Diabetes
• Are pregnant