Why I don't upcharge for my Hot and Cold Stones

Why I Use Hot and Cold Stones in Almost All My Massage Sessions

As a massage therapist, one of my primary goals is to help my clients feel relief, relaxation, and rejuvenation. One of the most effective tools I incorporate into my sessions is the use of hot and cold stones. You might wonder why these stones play such a pivotal role in my practice. The answer lies theoretically in their unique ability to help "shut the pain gate down" and bring balance to the body.

When I first learned how to use hot stones, I did charge extra, but more times than not I was reaching for a stone. I didn't understand at the time, because it was not taught in the course I took, why this was helping clients. I just assumed the heat made them feel better and relaxed the muscles. While these are both true, let's pull back the curtain and talk about this Pain Gate Theory.

The Science Behind the Pain Gate

The "pain gate" refers to a theory in neuroscience called the Gate Control Theory of Pain. Simply put, our spinal cord acts like a gatekeeper, deciding which sensations get sent to the brain. When we experience pain, those signals rush to the brain to let us know something’s wrong. However, the application of certain sensations—like heat or cold—can interfere with those pain signals and "close the gate," reducing the perception of pain. Closing this gate helps to let the muscles relax and a massage therapist can then do some impactful healing.

While the Gate Control Theory has not been "proven" in the way a mathematical theorem might be, there is substantial evidence supporting its principles. It has been influential in advancing pain science and developing treatments like:

• Massage therapy: Uses touch to stimulate non-painful nerve fibers and reduce pain.

• Heat/cold therapy: Applied to modulate pain signals.

• Electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): Directly targets nerve fibers to "close the gate."

Modern neuroscience has built on this theory with advances in understanding the nervous system, including the role of neurotransmitters, brain plasticity, and chronic pain mechanisms.

I don’t see this as just a theory—I’ve witnessed far too many clients experience results that align perfectly with its principles. Whatever the “magic” behind it may be, I’ve discovered over the years that my stones are far more than just tools; they are essential instruments in helping clients achieve deeper, more effective pain relief during their massage therapy sessions.

Hot Stones

Hot stones are fantastic for relaxing tight muscles, increasing blood flow, and soothing tension. The warmth penetrates deeply into the tissues, helping to:

• Loosen stiff areas.

• Improve circulation, which promotes healing.

• Calm the nervous system, reducing overall pain sensitivity.

• Even better, they feel GREAT!

  
  

  

  
  

The Power of Cold Stones

Cold stones, on the other hand, are equally powerful but often underrated. They help:

• Reduce inflammation and swelling.

• Tighten and tone the skin.

• Relieve acute pain by numbing the affected area temporarily.

By alternating between hot and cold stones during a session, I can stimulate the nervous system in a way that helps reduce chronic pain, improves range of motion, and enhances overall relaxation. And this is not just a THEORY, it's science.

Helping Clients Find Relief

Integrating hot and cold stones into my massage practice allows me to address a wide range of client concerns, from chronic back pain to post-workout recovery. This dual approach not only helps to "shut the pain gate down," but it also provides a deeply therapeutic experience that leaves my clients feeling balanced and refreshed.

If you’ve been dealing with persistent aches and pains or simply want to experience the restorative effects of hot and cold stone therapy or strictly hot stone therapy, I’d love to work with you. Together, we can help your body feel its best—naturally and holistically. Lisa Erwin LMT 2025