by Antonia Balfour, L.Ac.Hot Stones have been used for therapeutic purposes since ancient times, but only recently has Hot Stone Massage caught on as a popular massage treatment.In Hot Stone Massage, smooth, flat stones are heated and placed on key points around the body. The stones are often river rocks made from basalt which retain heat due to their high iron content.The massage therapist holds the heated stones to massage certain areas. The heat of the stones benefits the muscles by warming and relaxing them. This enables the therapist to apply deep pressure while still promoting relaxation. Warmth creates expansion of the blood vessels, encouraging blood to flow easily. In addition, hot stones stimulate and increase the operation of the overall lymph system.

Most people find the treatment to be enjoyable and relaxing as the combination of warmth and movement calms the nervous system and relaxes the body.

Hot Stone treatments are most often used to treat back pain, poor circulation, osteoarthritis, stress, anxiety, insomnia, and depression.

For more information on whether Hot Stone massage will benefit your condition, please call us at (310) 454-5855.