This is a treatment offered at our Pewsey clinic, and will be given by one of our sports massage therapists, Lia Rushton.
What is Hot Stone massage?
Hot stone massage is a variation of standard massage therapy, in which the therapist uses smooth, heated stones either held in their own hands, or placed on one part the body while they massage another part. The heat can be deeply relaxing and help warm up tight muscles so the therapist can work more deeply, more quickly.
The stones used are basalt, a black volcanic rock that absorbs and retains heat well. They vary in size, and have been smoothed and rounded by natural forces in the river or sea.
What happens during a hot stone massage?
Before you arrive, the stones will have first have been cleaned, then heated in a hot water bath until they reach a certain temperature range.
Depending on which part of you is to be treated, the starting position will vary, but most massages begin with you lying face down on the couch to enable your back, shoulders and neck to be treated. As the stones cool down, they will be replaced with fresh warm ones.
You will be required to undress as far as your underwear, but during the massage, only the part of your body being massaged will be exposed, to ensure your modesty.
The stones come in a variety of sizes, so big ones can treat bigger areas of your body, smaller ones on the smaller areas.
Everyone has their own comfort range, so if you should find that the stones are too warm or the pressure of the massage is too intense, that can easily be adapted – all you need to do is speak up! If you don’t find you like the stones, then your treatment can be changed to a regular massage.
How much does it cost?
Please contact the practice on 01672 564646 for our current fees.
Each massage will last around one hour.
Who can have hot stone massage?
Virtually anyone! Most people enjoy the warmth and find it a comforting and relaxing experience.
It’s ideally suited for people who have muscle tension but prefer a lighter massage. The heat relaxes muscles, allowing the therapist to work the muscles without using deep pressure.
Hot stone massage may be of help to people with:
- Back pain and aches
- Poor circulation
- Osteoarthritis and arthritis pain
- Stress, anxiety and tension
- Insomnia
- Depression
Who should NOT have hot stone massage?
Hot stone massage is not appropriate for certain people.
If you have the following, you cannot have hot stone massage:
- Diabetes
- Heart disease – please check with your doctor first
- You are on blood thinning medication or at a risk for developing blood clots – there is a risk that clots could be dislodged
- You are pregnant
- You have sunburn
- You have just had surgery
- You have an infectious disease, a rash or an open wound
- You are having chemotherapy
- You can’t be massaged over a recently fractured bone
If you are menopausal, the heat may trigger a hot flush! Not a contra-indication as such, but something you may want to bear in mind.
