LASTONE THERAPY

For relaxation and recuperation, heated stones just might be the right prescription.
By LAURIE M. FISHER
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
With each deep inhalation, a hot basalt stone was positioned on a towel down my midline. As I sank deeper into a relaxed state on the massage table, I closed my eyes to focus on a soothing medley of crashing waves. Another heated stone was used to massage each arm. The rocks retained warmth as they were placed in my palms.
LaStone Therapy is more than a great escape from life's stresses. During a recent 11/2-hour LaStone massage session, I discovered the benefits of relaxation as well as pain relief from a minor shoulder injury.
A newer trend in massotherapy, LaStone Therapy has been offered in large cities and upscale spas. Mary Hannigan of Tuscon, Ariz., developed the massage technique in 1993 to provide relaxation as well as energizing effects using hot, smooth basalt river stones and frozen marble stones. She theorized that the combination of both hot and cold stimulates and relaxes the body's circulatory system.
Local therapy: Janet Kolesar Popovec, owner of Family Massotherapy in Boardman, recently received certification in LaStone Therapy after attending a 30-hour training course for licensed massotherapists in Arizona. Other area therapists may use a variation of hot stone massages as part of their services.
Popovec incorporates LaStone Therapy in treatments for clients who seek relief from medical ailments as well as those who want relaxation and stress reduction. She believes LaStone Therapy is a win-win option for both therapists and clients.
"The combination of heat and stone allow me to do deeper tissue work with less discomfort to clients," she explained. At the same time the stones eliminate undue stress on therapists' wrists and thumbs. Popovec purchased stones specifically designed to fit her hands.
Specialized stones: Each stone shape is designated to be placed on or to massage a specific area of the body. For example, small, round and slightly indented flat stones fit comfortably between toes. The small stones are also used in reflexology massage. Hand sized larger rounded stones can be placed on the back. A longer cylindrical shape can add support and heat under the neck.
Although the stones are heated in a large roaster to between 170 and 200 degrees, they are not uncomfortably hot. Since different skin types have various tolerances for heat, Popovec constantly monitors response to the massage during each phase of the treatment. She can cool the stones if clients are uncomfortable.
Popovec said she has developed her own technique in her practice. She first applies an avocado-carrot massage oil with her hands to let clients become use to the feel of massage. Then she uses the stones in massotherapy techniques
"I trained in LaStone Therapy for my chronic medical clients," she said, adding both men and women have responded well to the therapy. She works with patients with medical conditions such as multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, arthritis and chronic back problems.
Referral: Boardman Chiropractors Rich Rogan and Heather Haverfield refer patients to Popovec for LaStone Therapy.
"LaStone is another alternative to mainstream medicine," Dr. Rogan explained. "People are looking for alternatives to medicine and surgery. They want a more natural approach to health care."
Rogan said he believes the heat of the stones increases the circulation that lets the body heal quickly. He said he has referred patients with whiplash from auto accidents as well work and athletic injuries.
Stevie Sicafuse of Poland is a fibromyalgia patient who has had massotherapy with Popovec once a week for more than five years. After one session of LaStone Therapy, Sicafuse said she wants to incorporate the new therapy into her weekly treatments.
"I loved the rocks. At first I was nervous about it; I have sensitive skin," she said. "It was not uncomfortable, it was soothing. I was pleasantly surprised."
Sicafuse also has discomfort in her right arm from a breast lumpectomy and radiation therapy.
"I felt relief quickly," she said. "The stones worked deeper into my muscles and the heat relaxed them. I really could tell a difference. It did not hurt when Jan applied more pressure."
Sicafuse said water therapy had helped her condition, but massage relieves more pressure and tension.
Occasionally Popovec will use cold stones to treat inflammations. However, she has found that some clients may experience an unexpected emotional release with cold stones.
She cautioned that LaStone Therapy isn't for everyone. Some contraindications include vascular problems, scoliosis or certain skeletal disorders.