hot Stone Massage
Hot stone massage is a therapeutic and deeply relaxing treatment that combines the benefits of traditional massage with the soothing properties of heated stones. This technique involves placing smooth, heated stones on specific parts of the body and using them to perform massage strokes. The stones used in hot stone massage are typically basalt, volcanic rock that is usually high in iron, which allows them to absorb heat. At PT of Melissa, our skilled therapists offer hot stone massage to help you unwind, relieve muscle tension, and promote overall well-being.
Benefits Of Hot Stone Massage
Deep Relaxation – the heat from the stones penetrates deep into the muscles, providing a profound sense of relaxation and stress relief.
Reduces Inflammation – inflammation happens when your body activates your immune systems for tasks like attacking bacteria or healing damaged tissue. Sometimes, your body sends out these cells when it doesn’t need to, which can lead to chronic inflammation and autoimmune conditions. Both heat and massage can help manage inflammation.
Improves Flexibility – stiff joints and muscles limit your flexibility and make it hard to move. Heat and massage help loosen and relax these muscles, which can reduce pain and make it easier to move.
Improved Circulation – the combination of heat and massage stimulates blood circulation, enhancing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues. This reduces pain and inflammation and promotes healing.
Enhanced Mental Clarity – the calming effect of hot stone massage can help reduce anxiety and promote a clearer, more focused mind.
Hot Stone Massage Techniques
Hot stone massage involves the use of smooth, flat, heated stones. Key techniques we use include:
- Placement of Stones – heated stones are placed on specific points of the body, such as the back, hands, and feet, to warm and relax muscles.
- Massage with Stones – we use the stones to perform long, gliding strokes, kneading, and circular movements to work on deeper muscle layers.
- Alternating Heat and Cold – occasionally, cold stones may be used in conjunction with hot stones to create a contrast therapy, which can be highly effective for reducing inflammation and stimulating circulation.
- Trigger Point Therapy – heated stones can also be used to apply direct pressure to trigger points, releasing muscle knots and relieving pain.
Treatments will vary slightly depending on your specific needs and goals. You will be asked to lie face down then your massage therapist will place a large heated stone on the base of your spine. The warmth and pressure will have an instant soothing effect and the gentle music and ambiance of the room will also play their part. A hot stone massage uses Swedish massage techniques, with various pressures. The main techniques are kneading, circular pressure, long strokes, and tapping or vibration.
Hot stone massage isn’t painful at all! The stones are warm, but not hot, and the warmth will feel pleasant and emit a tingling sensation along your spine. We will use a specialist heater for the stones, which is set to a precise temperature. This ensures that the stones do not become too hot or cause discomfort or burning.
The massage itself is a little deeper than a regular massage, simply because the warmth allows the muscles to relax and your massage therapist can then apply a little more pressure to work out those muscles and release any tension.
So Why Choose Us?
Experienced Team – our team consists of highly trained and certified massage therapists with a deep understanding of Swedish massage techniques.
Personalized Approach – we prioritize your individual needs and create a customized treatment plan for each client.
Comfortable Environment – our practice is designed to provide a serene and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring you feel relaxed from the moment you walk through the doors.
Comprehensive Care – In addition to Swedish massage, we offer a range of physical therapy services to support your overall health and well-being.