Soapstone and Creativity: The Foundation of Ergostone

Ergostone Original is a modern heat pad made from silicone with a core of finely ground sand derived from the unique soapstone rock. Designed to be heated or cooled, it’s perfect for both relaxation and pain relief. Viktor Ström, the innovator behind the product, explains:
"I wanted to create something sustainable and versatile that helps people care for themselves in everyday life—whether they are in pain, cold, stiff, stressed, or anxious."

The idea for Ergostone grew from Viktor’s personal experiences. Hailing from Östersund and now living near Undersåker, a small village close to Åre. Viktor comes from a long line of creative inventors on his mother’s side.

His grandmother, nearly blind but full of energy, inspired his interest in creating sustainable products. She spent much of her time exercising in comfortable settings like her sofa and bed, sparking Viktor’s curiosity about designing a versatile training aid suitable for diverse needs.

After moving to a house without electricity or water, Viktor stumbled upon soapstone in an old quarry.
"I used the stones to warm myself by the fireplace. One day, when a stone broke into sand, the idea was born: the weight and thermal properties of the sand could make it perfect for a tool for my grandmother. By combining the sand with soft, hypoallergenic, and heat-resistant silicone, I created a product that could be used for both warmth and coolness—not just a training aid but also something comforting to rest on," says Viktor.

What makes Ergostone unique?

"It’s the world’s first medical device with this unique material combination, certified for use in hospital environments across the EU (MDR Class 1). My background in behavioral science has made me aware of how stress and comfort affect us. Over the past decade, discussions around the overuse of medication have increased, and I’ve focused on how touch can stimulate the release of calming hormones like oxytocin. Humans respond positively to warmth, cold, and pressure, which aids the body’s natural healing processes," Viktor explains.

Locally produced with sustainability in mind

Ergostone is made in Jämtland using leftover soapstone from a decommissioned quarry in Handöl, where the material is repurposed and ground into fine sand. Known for its thermal properties, the soapstone is combined with elastic silicone that is easy to clean. Local production not only honors the area’s 500-year tradition of soapstone craftsmanship but also supports sustainable development in a depopulated part of Sweden.

Challenges and achievements

The journey to develop Ergostone was not without its challenges—finding the right silicone took 1.5 years, the pandemic disrupted production, and economic uncertainty arose during the war. Securing medical certification proved difficult as regional purchasing freezes were implemented. However, despite these obstacles, Viktor successfully launched a high-quality, multifunctional product.
"In a time dominated by disposable products, I wanted to create something sustainable with multiple uses—something people wouldn’t just use but love, and that would last for many years," he says.

Reception and future plans

The product has received praise from users worldwide and experts in the field, who have hailed it as the most significant innovation since gel pads emerged 15–20 years ago. Users appreciate its ability to retain heat and cold far longer than previous alternatives. Its versatility makes it suitable for the entire family, whether to relieve menstrual pain, soothe overstrained knees, or provide comfort as a body pillow.

Viktor also plans to expand into new innovations for healthcare and the pet industry, focusing on sustainability and reducing waste.
"We aim to educate the market about who we are and why our products are necessary," he adds.

Three tips for aspiring innovators

 Believe in your idea and commit to it—it’s a long journey.
 Eliminate unnecessary energy drains from your life to maintain balance; unexpected challenges will arise.
 Identify what energizes you and find a work pace you can sustain for years.