What is the “massage” aspect of “hot stone massages”? The stones themselves are certainly important. Therapists typically use a type called basalt stones, which are volcanic stones that are ideal for conducting massages. While the therapist may use the stone itself as a tool when giving the massage, he or she more often strategically places the stones onto various parts of the patient's body. Here are some steps for preparing the patient's limbs for a soothing, relaxing, hot stone massage:

Step 1: Position the stones on the patient's body

Stone massage kits contain a variety of stones, of differing shapes and sizes. You should place the largest stones on the largest parts of the body, such as the shoulders and hips. Next, place the mid-size stones in places such as on either side of the person's spinal cord. It is important NOT to place the stones directly on the spinal cord, as this could result in injuring the patient.

Step 2: Apply lotion to a limb

Begin applying lotion to the particular limb that you will be massaging. It is important to warm up the lotion before applying it. This will make the lotion more effective in causing the patient's muscles to become suppler.

Step 3: Use petrasage to massage the limb

Petrasage is a massaging technique that helps to spread the muscles. You should utilize your fingers and the ends of your thumbs. Place thumbs adjacent to each other, and then gradually move them away from each other. The petrasage massage method is particularly useful when massaging arms and legs, as it is effective for muscles that are above a particular bone.

Step 4: Start using the compression method

Therapists use this massage method on “trigger points” of the body, using fingertips or thumbs. Continue this technique until the patient's pain in these areas start to decrease. Afterwards, move onto a different section of the arm or leg.

Step 5: Use other massage methods on the limb

Some additional techniques that therapists often use are compression, effleurage, and stretching. It is important that therapists have adequate training before using any type of massage methods. We have already discussed compression. How about the other two techniques?

Effleurage involves the therapist using his or her fingertips, thumbs and palms, to create strokes that slide across the limbs of the patients.

Meanwhile, stretching is a vital aspect of various types of therapy classified as “manual soft-tissue” Stretching can include a variety of methods, including:

• active isolated stretching

• muscle energy technique

• positional release techniques

• post isometric release

When using stretching techniques, prioritizing safety and the patient's needs are important. This will maximize the improvement of the patient's range of motion and flexibility.

After using our limbs constantly throughout the day, a hot stone massage on them can provide welcome results. By following the aforementioned steps, you can provide a hot stone massage that will make the patient's arms and legs more relaxed and flexible. Never leave your patient's limbs in limbo!