Hot Stone Massage (Stonetherapy)

Stone therapy is a massage with smooth, heated natural stones. The specialist works with hands and stones at the same time: the warmth helps the muscles relax, so the massage feels deep even with gentle pressure.

It is first and foremost a treatment for rest and relieving tension. At Medest, stone therapy is performed on the back, and a session lasts 30 minutes.

Who it is for

• constant tension in the back and shoulders;
• fatigue, stress, or difficulty relaxing;
• you enjoy heat treatments and often feel cold;
• gentle recovery after physical activity;
• you want half an hour of quiet rest during the day.

How the procedure works

Before the session, the specialist asks how you are feeling and whether you have any issues with blood pressure, blood vessels, or skin sensitivity. The stones are heated in advance to a comfortably warm temperature, and the specialist tests it on their own skin.

Oil is applied to your back. Some stones are placed along the spine, and the specialist uses others to massage the muscles with gliding movements, so the stone works as an extension of the hand. If a stone feels too hot, say so, and it will be replaced or moved right away.

What the warmth does

Warmth increases blood flow to the skin and muscles, the muscles become softer, and the specialist can work them without strong pressure. After the treatment, many people notice deep relaxation, a feeling of lightness in the back, and more restful sleep.

Stone therapy is often chosen as a first introduction to massage: the sensations are gentle, and the warmth helps even those who find it hard to let go of tension during a regular massage.

Stone therapy does not treat spinal conditions and is not a substitute for medical treatment. If your back hurts all the time or the pain radiates to an arm or a leg, see a doctor first.

How often to have it

You can have stone therapy once, as a way to rest, or regularly whenever back tension returns. The specialist will suggest a suitable rhythm after the first session, taking into account how you feel.

If back tension is related to desk work and keeps coming back, stone therapy can be alternated with classic back massage, which works the muscles more deeply.

Who performs the treatment

Diana Akopovna Alagezyan — specialist in manual techniques, kinesiologist, and spa technologist with 30 years of experience. She graduated from the Armenian State Institute of Physical Culture and is a certified specialist and trainer for Pevonia Botanica and Cellcosmet.

How to prepare

• avoid a heavy meal right before the session;
• let the specialist know about blood pressure issues, varicose veins, diabetes, or pregnancy;
• if you have a fresh tan or sunburn on your back, it is better to reschedule;
• after the treatment, do not go out into the cold right away; give your body time to cool down.

If you also have leg swelling, read how stone therapy differs from lymphatic drainage and anti-cellulite massage.