HOT massage

The deep muscle relaxation increases blood flow to the areas being worked 5 times quicker than in a standard body massage which not only accelerates any healing processes, eases muscle tension but also creates a state of mental relaxation. Heat has a direct affect on reducing tight muscles and decreases trigger point activity which is often the primary cause of common pain conditions. The tight muscles also harbour pain referring trigger points.

COLD massage

Cold is an ideal treatment for ACUTE injuries – this is recent injury which is less than 72 hours and characterised by inflammation, swelling, lack of mobility and pain. Cold has highly beneficial effects in helping acute injuries to heal quicker and reduce muscle soreness. Using cold immediately after injury shortens the recovery period and it decreases nerve conduction velocity. This can be beneficial in reducing pain sensations and increasing the pain threshold thereby providing pain relief. Cold can decrease fluid retention (oedema) – this is one of the primary causative factors in the perpetuation of acute pain. Cold stones are used specifically in the area of pain or injury but for no longer than 5 minutes.

HOT and COLD massage (contrast bathing)

This is believed to cause flushing of the tissue fluids and improve many of the neurological responses that will create the best environment for healing. Stones have the unique advantage over cold packs, infra red lamps etc namely you can actually WORK with the stones while simultaneously applying wet heat/cold, thus enhancing greatly the time effectiveness of your treatment.