A hot stone massage is a type of massage therapy in which a skilled therapist massages your body using heated stones, placing them on key spots of the spine and muscles for optimum benefits.
This centuries-old technique of massaging with heated stones can be a great approach to loosening up the muscles so that the massage technique can penetrate more deeply into painful or inflamed muscles.
The stones used in this massage technique are typically black volcanic rocks (basalt) that range in size from tiny to large and are naturally smoothed by river or ocean motions. Hot stone massages are often available at a spa, but due to the sensitive and specialized nature of this treatment, you should seek out a professional massage therapist who has been educated in this approach.
Native Americans have relied on hot stones warmed by fire to relieve hurting muscles. Mary Nelson, a Tucson, Arizona native, is credited for popularizing the use of hot stones in massage therapy today. LaStone Therapy, which has a North American spiritual component and needs training and certification, is her trademarked method of hot stone massage.
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Table of Contents
Here are 6 Benefits of Hot Stone Massage:
1. It’s possible that it’ll aid with the symptoms of autoimmune diseases.
Fibromyalgia and other painful diseases may benefit from hot stone massage. Fibromyalgia is a persistent pain condition that affects the entire body. People with fibromyalgia who got a 30-minute massage slept longer, had fewer trigger points, and had lower levels of substance P (a substance involved in transmitting pain signals) than those who got relaxation therapy, according to a 2002 study. Massage, on the other hand, needs further investigation before it becomes a conventional fibromyalgia treatment.
People with rheumatoid arthritis may benefit from a moderate-pressure massage, such as a hot stone massage. After one month of massage therapy, study participants reported less pain, improved grip strength, and increased range of motion.
2. Immunity may be boosted.
Massage may help to enhance your immune system. A single session of Swedish massage therapy has a beneficial and immediate impact on immunity, according to research. Arginine-vasopressin, a hormone that helps control blood pressure and water retention, was found to be lower in blood samples obtained before and after the massage.
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3. It aids in the relief of muscle tension and pain.
Heat has been used to relieve muscle tension and discomfort for a long time. It aids in the improvement of blood flow to the affected area. Muscle spasms may be reduced, and flexibility and range of motion may be improved. Inflammation can be relieved by cold therapy. Alternating heat and cold stones during your massage may be beneficial depending on your conditions.
4. Reduces anxiety and stress
“Massage treatment can be useful for stress alleviation,” according to the American Massage Therapy Association. Their claim is backed up by research. A ten-minute massage boosted cardiovascular responses such as stroke volume, according to a 2001 study.
According to a 1997 study, 15-minute onsite chair massages in the office lowered stress much more than a 15-minute break without massage.
People who had abdominal colorectal surgery experienced decreased discomfort, stress, and anxiety after having a post-operative massage, according to research.
5. Promotes sleep
Massage may be an alternative to sleeping drugs in individuals with insomnia, according to a 2006 research review. Back massage was found to help with relaxation and sleep studies. Infants with sleep issues who received a 15-minute massage from their parents fell asleep faster, according to a 2001 research. Upon awakening, they were also more alert, active, and upbeat. Massage is supposed to help you get more restful sleep, but the reason for this is unknown.
6. It’s possible that it’ll aid with cancer symptoms.
In a three-year study published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, 1,290 persons with cancer were studied to see how massage influenced their pain, exhaustion, stress and anxiety, nausea, and depression. Massage, particularly Swedish massage, alleviated cancer symptoms in the trial, even in patients with severe symptoms. Researchers feel that the soothing effect of human contact was a factor.
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Caution
It’s crucial that you inform the therapist about all of your medical issues and how your body reacts to external stimuli before getting a hot stone massage. Pregnancy, hypertension, cardiac issues, diabetes, or any other medical condition for which you are receiving treatment should be disclosed to the therapist so that he may analyze your condition and determine whether or not a hot stone massage is appropriate. You should also speak with your provider about it.
Heat can aggravate several skin diseases like eczema, rashes, and psoriasis. Furthermore, if you are taking a drug that promotes skin hypersensitivity, such as antibiotics or Accutane for acne, it is recommended to avoid heat. Varicose veins, open wounds, infected skin problems, and inflammation should not be treated with heat, and numb areas should be avoided.
If you have high blood pressure, heart disease, circulation difficulties, limited feeling, or nerve damage, you should avoid getting a cold stone massage. Cold stones should be avoided if you have gastrointestinal discomfort, pain, bloating, gas, cramping, constipation, or diarrhea. Warm stones, on the other hand, can be moved in a circular, clockwise motion to alleviate these sensations.
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Conclusion
A hot stone massage has been shown in studies to help reduce stress and anxiety, increase relaxation, and relieve pain and muscle tension. It could be beneficial in a range of situations and settings.
More research is needed to determine why massage treatment has such a strong influence. It’s possible that it has a lot to do with the human touch. Touch provides a sense of belonging and security for many people.
Only use a massage therapist who has been trained to work with hot stones to ensure a great hot stone massage experience. You may experience soreness during or after your massage. This could be a result of pressure and deep tissue manipulation. You shouldn’t be in any discomfort. If you feel uneasy or in discomfort during your massage, tell your massage therapist as soon as possible.
