Hot Stone Massage
What is a therapeutic hot stone treatment?
It’s a type of massage therapy combining the benefits of hydrotherapy with manual massage.
How is it different than a spa treatment?
A therapeutic hot stone session may be different than a typical hot stone spa treatment you may have experienced. Rather than balancing the stones on your body, the stones are used to massage with. Initially the stones are moved briskly across the skin. As they cool, Kate can use deeper pressure and move the stones more slowly.
How hot are the stones?
Though we call it hot stone massage, the stones are actually ‘very warm.’ Kate is holding the stones during the treatment which ensures they are at a safe temperature to use on your body. That said, different parts of the body may feel more sensitive to heat. In this case, you can inform Kate and she can cool the stones down before continuing. The use of hot stones is meant to enhance your treatment experience. You are encouraged to offer your feedback at anytime if you need your treatment adapted.
Are there risks?
Like other forms of massage therapy and local heat therapy, this treatment, though generally safe, may not be right for you. Therapeutic hot stone is not indicated in an area of acute injury, if there is redness and swelling present or if the skin is broken. It may also not be indicated if you have uncontrolled blood pressure or other conditions. Please consult with your doctor if you are unsure.
What kind of stones do you use?
Different stones have different characteristics. Kate uses basalt stones as well as ceramic stones from Synergy™ stone massage .
What are the benefits?
Heat from the stones warms the area being treated. This can help reduce muscle tension, pain and discomfort. The firmness and shape of the stones can allow Kate to work more deeply in a way that may not be possible using hands only. The warmth of the stones often feels comforting to people who tend to feel cold, especially in winter.
Does my insurance cover hot stone massage?
Yes. If you have coverage for registered massage therapy, this style treatment is covered. Though the stones may feel luxurious, they are therapeutic - similar to an RMT, physio or other health care practitioner using a heat pad another tool to maximize the effectiveness of their treatment.