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Hot stone back massage

Hot Stone Massage Therapy

Discover the therapeutic benefits of hot stone massage therapy designed to enhance physical and mental well-being. By combining the principles of thermotherapy with advanced massage techniques, this treatment offers a unique approach to relieving muscle tension, improving circulation, and promoting deep relaxation. 

How It Works

  • Thermotherapy

    • Smooth, basalt stones are heated to an optimal temperature and used to glide over the body. The heat penetrates deep into muscle tissue, increasing blood flow and promoting the release of tension. â€‹

  • Myofascial Release

    • The therapist uses the stones to apply gentle gliding pressure, targeting deeper layers of muscle and fascia. This helps break down adhesions, reduce stiffness, and improve range of motion. ​

  • Parasympathetic Activation

    • The warmth and rhythmic motions of the massage stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress hormones and promoting a state of calm and relaxation. ​

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Proven Benefits 

  • Muscle Relaxation

    • ​Heat allows for deeper tissue work without excessive pressure, making it ideal for chronic pain and tightness. â€‹

  • Enhanced Circulation

    • Improved blood flow supports the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, aiding in recovery and enhancing overall body functionality. 

  • Stress Reduction

    • The combination of heat and massage lowers cortisol levels, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety. 

  • Detoxification

    • Increase circulation encourages the removal of metabolic waste products from the muscles. 

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What to Expect

During your session, your therapist will use smooth, heated stones to gently glide over your body, delivering soothing warmth and targeted pressure. This technique ensures a safe and effective treatment, allowing the heat to deeply relax your muscles. The result is a deeply therapeutic experience that leaves you feeling physically revitalized and mentally refreshed. 

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Considerations & Contraindications

At Petrissage Remedy, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Hot stone massage therapy is a deeply relaxing and therapeutic treatment, but it may not be suitable for everyone. To ensure the best possible experience, we ask that you review the following considerations and contraindications before booking your session.

  • Fever or Infections 

  • Sensitive Skin

  • Diabetes ​​​

  • Pregnancy 

  • Varicose Veins

  • Severe Cardiovascular Conditions 

  • Cancer 

  • Osteoporosis 

  • Neuropathy 

  • Inflammatory Conditions 

  • Metal Implants or Pacemakers â€‹

  • Medications

    • Certain medications (e.g. blood thinners, muscle relaxants, ​steroids, and long-term use of cortisone) may increase or decrease sensitivity to heat or bruising. 

  • High or Low Blood Pressure 

    • Clients with uncontrolled hypertension or hypotension should consult their doctor before receiving treatment. ​

  • ​Recent Injuries or Surgeries 

    • Medical clearance required prior to receiving treatment. ​

The benefits mentioned in the description of hot stone massage therapy are based on general principles of thermotherapy, massage therapy, and myofascial release. These are supported by scientific research and clinical practice. Below are some sources and studies that support the claims made:

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1. Muscle Relaxation and Pain Relief

  • Heat therapy (thermotherapy) is widely recognized for its ability to relax muscles and reduce pain. The application of heat increases blood flow, reduces muscle stiffness, and promotes relaxation.

    • Source: Nadler, S. F., Weingand, K., & Kruse, R. J. (2004). The physiologic basis and clinical applications of cryotherapy and thermotherapy for the pain practitioner. Pain Physician, 7(3), 395-399.

2. Enhanced Circulation

  • Heat therapy dilates blood vessels, improving circulation and delivering more oxygen and nutrients to tissues. This can aid in recovery and reduce inflammation.

    • Source: Petrofsky, J., et al. (2013). The efficacy of sustained heat treatment on delayed-onset muscle soreness. Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine, 23(3), 255-262.

3. Stress Reduction and Parasympathetic Activation

  • Massage therapy, including techniques that incorporate heat, has been shown to reduce cortisol levels (a stress hormone) and activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation.

    • Source: Field, T. (2014). Massage therapy research review. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 20(4), 224-229.

4. Myofascial Release and Improved Mobility

  • Deep tissue massage techniques, including those used in hot stone massage, can help break down adhesions and improve range of motion by targeting the fascia and deeper muscle layers.

    • Source: Ajimsha, M. S., Al-Mudahka, N. R., & Al-Madzhar, J. A. (2015). Effectiveness of myofascial release: Systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 19(1), 102-112.

5. Detoxification

  • While the concept of "detoxification" in massage is often debated, improved circulation from heat and massage can help remove metabolic waste products like lactic acid from muscles.

    • Source: Crane, J. D., et al. (2012). Massage therapy attenuates inflammatory signaling after exercise-induced muscle damage. Science Translational Medicine, 4(119), 119ra13.

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