Hot stone massage is a variation on deep tissue therapeutic massage, where heated smooth, flat stones are placed on key points on the body. The massage therapist may also hold the stones and use them to massage certain areas of the body.

Hot stone massage was invented in 1993 by Mary Hannigan, a native of Tucson, Arizona. She has trademarked her particular style and calls it LaStone Therapy, but most spas offer their own versions.
 

The stones are usually made of basalt, a type of rock that is rich in iron, so they retain heat. River rocks are normally used because they are so smooth - they have been smoothed over time by the river's current. The stones are never rough. They  are about the size of a large egg, only flat.

The stones are immersed in water and heated in an electric heating device until they are within a certain temperature range usually 120-150 degrees. The therapist performs deep tissue massage with the hot stones. The heat warms and relaxes the muscles, which allows the therapist to apply deeper pressure, if desired. The warmth of the hot stones improves circulation and calms the nervous system.

The massage therapist always holds the stones first before touching them to your body, which ensures that the temperature will not be too hot. However, everyone has their own comfort range. Be sure to speak up if the stones are too hot for you.

Some massage therapists place stones on points that are thought to be energy centers of the body to rebalance the body and mind. Conditions which hot stone therapy is used for are:

• Back pain and aches
   
• Poor circulation
   
• Osteoarthritis and arthritis pain
   
• Stress, anxiety and tension
   
• Insomnia
   
• Depression