CHARLOTTE – After several clients asked about hot stones, I looked into hot stone therapy. I’ve had a hot stone massage and have enjoyed it, but never felt a motivation to learn this particular modality.  Here’s what I’ve learned lately while looking into it.

What is hot stone therapy? The stones are actually smooth stone that holds heat. They are heated and once cooled to the appropriate temperature, applied to the skin (always with a towel or sheet as a barrier).

What are the benefits? All of the support for hot stone therapy is also why we have massage in the first place: pain relief, stress relief, increased mobility, increased circulation.  So why would you choose this type of massage? Well, it feels really good. It’s such a different sensation to have heated stones sitting on your sacrum (the bottom of your back). It feels nice to have them placed under your shoulders while getting your face massage. The heated stones allow the muscles to loosen up while your therapist works a different area.

Ask your massage therapist if she offers this service and see if you’re a candidate to have this type of massage done.   There are some contraindications that don’t allow for safe hot stone therapy. According to the AMTA, if you have cancer, autoimmune issues, epilepsy, neuropathy, heart disease or are pregnant, then this modality is probably not for you. Let your therapist know your interest and he/she will help you decide if this is a safe option.