Is Hot Stone Massage Good for Arthritis?

If‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ you have been thinking whether a hot stone massage would be beneficial for arthritis or not, then it may comfort you to know that many other people also think the same. People with joint pain and stiffness are the ones who most frequently think about it, yet they are also the ones who are most reluctant to try ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌it.

What Is Hot Stone Massage, Actually?

We could say that the explanation is very straightforward. In a hot stone massage, the masseur picks up some stones that are usually taken out of the hot water. The stones are being put on the back, shoulders, or wherever there are painful joints, and besides that, the therapist might be moving the stones along your muscles in a slow manner.

The heat is absorbed by the body. A muscle which is too tight to get work on will release and even the whole body will slowly calm down. For one who has arthritis, this particular mild heat could be the relief of the aching which is caused by the disorder.

Is It Possible That The Method Helps With The Pain Caused By Arthritis?

No, hot stone massage is not the answer to the problem. After one session, arthritis will not vanish. However, it is possible to alleviate the following symptoms with it:

Arthritis-caused stiffness of the joints, in particular in the morning. Muscles that are tight surround the joint that is painful. Stress and poor sleep can occur due to the constant discomfort. When the body is in a state of relaxation, the pain is generally less intense. There are people who say that after the session they feel "lighter" as well as better sleep occurs that night. Relief from pain may be for one day or several days. Different people are different, so it's up to you to watch how your body reacts.

Here’s A Plain Real-Life Style Example

Just take the example of Meera, age 48, having arthritis in her knees and fingers. Meera works at a desk, thus in the evening, everything feels stiff. Her doctor is good enough to give a green light for massage, however, she is afraid that the stones will be very hot.

She schedules a session only and assures the masseur by the statement, "Kindly use the stones that are not too hot." The masseur keeps looking at the client and checking as well, "Are you comfortable?" Meera's words after the completion of the session are that her legs are warm and loose, and she can bend her knees with less help. Pain is still there but it is milder and during that night she sleeps without turning rapidly.

That is the way it mostly happens in people's life: not magical, just a little and gentle assistance.

Short List: The Ones That Would Care For Hot Stone Massage

Quick confirmation list:

Mornings find you stiff and heavy most of the time. Meds replacement is not your intention, only an add-on of relaxationIf you are a lover of touch and warming of the body by a pack, if you are suffering from stress or sleep poorly due to pain If you can lie still for 45–60 minutes. Very simple steps before trying it

Do this first:

In‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌ any case, consulting your doctor is the first thing to do when you have severe arthritis, heart problems, diabetes, or your joints are very swollen

Select a qualified masseur and tell him/her clearly that you have arthritis and that you need a gentle treatment. Ask them to use only moderate heat initially. If it is too hot, then tell them right away. Do not allow massage on joints that are very red, swollen, or warm to the touch. Take some water and rest after the session. Do not scheduling engaging in hard work or going for a long walk ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌immediately.

Who needs to be careful or stay away from the massage?

It is better if you take precaution or avoid the hot stone massage in case:

There are open wounds, skin rashes, or infections in that area. You are not able to sense heat well (nerve issues, very poor sensation)You had surgery recently on that joint. Your doctor advised you not to use heat on your joints. During the session, if there is something that you are not comfortable with, let them know. The body is yours, so is the pain, and, accordingly, the rules. An accurate final thought 

Hot stone massage can be a relaxing extra option to regular medical treatment, though it should always be under your doctor's care and advice.

Conclusion 

Not a very bright thought that is. The stones might get really hot and could cause burning. The safest way is to go to a professional who is trained and knows how to handle heat and ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌pressure.

FAQS on Hot Stone Massage Good for Arthritis?

Q1: Is hot stone massages safe for me if my joints are extremely swollen?

Generally, when joints are very red, hot, or swollen, it is advisable to keep away from applying heat in that area. Need to consult your doctor first.

Q2: How many sessions are necessary for me to feel a change?

After only one session, some people can notice a minor change while for others it takes two or three sessions. Slow down and listen to your body.