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Posts Tagged ‘massage therapy’

When it is time to buy a massage chair, and you know nothing else these are the two things you must remember. Firstly, comfort is the most important thing to look out for in a massage chair. The second thing is that the massage functions are really what separate different chairs. Those two are all you need to effectively go out and tests drive some chairs.

Massage chairs have built in rollers, nodes, and air bags that try to emulate the hands and fingers of a massage therapist. When you are at the store trying the chairs out, notice the different massage functions as well as the intensity of the massage.

Some chairs offer more massage functions, some allow you to set combinations of functions as well as the intensity. Most chairs that allow you to adjust the intensity will come with removable cushions. Just use more cushions to lighten the massage intensity, or fewer cushions to increase the intensity.

Inanimate comfort of the massage chair is really about supporting and filling the contours of your body. It comes down to size, and density of the chair. Removable cushions give users flexibility when it comes to density. You can add more cushions if you prefer to lounge on something soft or, if you need more support, remove cushions if you want your chair to be more firm with less support in specific areas of the body.

The comfort of the massage depends on how the rollers feel when it presses on your body through the cushions and the whether the adjustability of the massage is enough to match the contours of your body. For example, massages in the backrest begin with a roller that starts at the top and rolls down. For shorter people, the setting must be changed to start the massage at a lower point in the backrest or else the roller begins at the persons head. Some sophisticated chairs can detect the user’s height and even the spine in some cases to automatically make adjustments for optimal user experience.

Other chairs will let you choose the sequence of massages and save settings that you like best to be performed the next time you hop on. Some chairs work areas other than the back like the arms, hips, legs and feet using air bags that inflate and deflate.

In many cases, the buyer intends to share the chair with his family or some member of the household who will also use the chair on a regular basis. In such a case, it is better to pay a little extra for the added flexibility of adjustments so everyone who uses the chair can pick the settings they find most comfortable.

Since massage chairs are bulky items, it isn’t something you can just put away. For this reason, some people choose a chair based on the compatibility with the decor of their living. It can double as a lounge chair when not in use because we take such care to pick something of extreme comfort.

The reason it is important to visit a store is so you can sample the differences in massage chairs before you buy. But before physically trying out chairs, it helps to know what the differences are in the many models and brands.

Three key things that differentiate massage chairs are massage functions, upholstery, and physical design. Other variations are less obvious and you have to carefully read the specifications to learn the little but important things about the chair.

The most important functions that come with even the most basic chair are rolling, kneading, tapping and percussions. Higher end models have functions that allow a combination of these basic functions as well as the ability to perform combinations at the same time on different areas of the body.

Massage techniques also vary in their range of speeds and intensity of these functions. More advanced chairs can perform a wider range of speeds and intensities while the most basic chair might offer just a few functions and a single speed and no distinction in intensity.

Massage chairs come upholstered a variety of materials. Leathermatch and premium leather upholstered chairs will come with higher prices while more basic materials like fabric and microfiber won’t carry quite the same premium. Some manufacturers will distinguish their models of chairs based on the upholstery or small accents within the physical design, such as partial wooden bases.

The design of the chair is important to many and for good reason. Since they tend to be bulky, most people keep them in their living room and it serves double purpose as a lounge chair. For that reason, it’s not uncommon for the look of the chair to be a deal breaker or maker. However, there are also chairs that come with rollers so they can be tilted, rolled, and tucked away when not in use.

The number one consideration that buyers should look carefully for is the comfort. Since these chairs can double as lounge chairs for many, it needs to be something that you can sit in for long periods of time. In fact, you wouldn’t want to get up from some of the chairs that are very well designed for comfort.

When it comes down to it, comfort is the key. A massage chair is something that should unwind and relax you. If it is something to look forward to after a long day, then the chair has fulfilled its purpose.

We are asked many times by potential massage chair buyers as to the most important features in a massage chair. There is a vast array of massage chairs on the market with many features, options, and price points. It is good to know what you really want out of the massage chair recliner to help guide your decision making. We have put together the 5 most important massage chair features for your review:

Shiatsu Massage Therapy: Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese massage which uses pressure points, tapping and kneading to provide a very invigorating massage. The premier massage chair brands integrate a body scan to detect your pressure points. The massage is then tailored to each individual. The shiatsu uses a combination of massage techniques, so the programming by the manufacturer is very important.

Heat Therapy: Heat has great healing abilities when applied in the right situations. Many of the top robotic recliners have integrated heating elements into their chairs. Some chairs have the capability to heat only one area while others can heat multiple areas. If you can get the heating with individual area controls, this way you can apply heat to just the area(s) you really want. Heat is very relaxing and helps reduce swelling and increase blood flow.

Auto Programs: Most massage chairs come with automatic programs. Just press a button and the massage chair takes over and delivers the massage. The auto programs follow pre-set programs as designed by the manufacturers. The auto programs are set to control the various massage techniques, locations, massage systems and durations. All auto programs are not created equal. You want to make sure that the auto programs will perform massage therapies that you want. If you have lower back pain, then you want to make sure the program can adequately cover that area.

Seat Vibration: This seems like a basic feature, but if you sit a lot, then seat vibration is a very effective technique. The seat has a vibration unit installed under the seat. The vibration can be set to 3 to 5 levels of intensity. Many of the automatic programs use vibration at certain points in the massages. Vibration helps to stimulate the capillary vessels to enhance blood flow in the buttocks area.

Wireless Sub Remote: It is amazing how many massage chairs are coming out with 2 remote controls. However, most 2nd remotes or sub remotes are tethered by a wire to the chair. The idea of a remote control is well to use it remotely–not tied to the chair. There is finally a wireless sub remote available. You can sit all the way back in the chair and operate most every function. This is important, because you do not want to have to get up to make adjustments to the massage. Sit back, relax and just click on the wireless sub remote.

We feel these are the 5 most important features to really check out when you are looking at a massage chair. The massage chair is an important investment in your health and well being. Make sure you get the features that you will use over the long run. Take your time and find out what massage therapies are right for you. Consult with your health care provide. Then check out some massage chairs and see what you really like. This will ensure you get the most out of your massage chair recliner.

Everyone wants to look younger. Since the beginning of time, man has searched for the fountain of youth. Technology has always been applied to counter the forces of aging. Various treatments have been developed to help the skin to retain moisture and stay healthy. There have been creams and elixirs all promising younger looking skin or removal of wrinkles. Many have merit and some out just outright scams preying on the hope of people to stay young. Skin is certainly the main focus, but delve a little deeper and you will find that just below the skin are muscles and tissues which need help too. Many of the best massage chair brands are now integrating massage therapies to help your body to better retain its youth and vitality.

Two major factors which can cause the body to age rapidly is the lack of exercise and stress. Exercise helps to keep the body in top condition. The muscles stay more flexible and strength and endurance are enhanced. Without exercise, the muscles atrophy. They breakdown and they cannot support activity for long. Stress is another key ingredient to aging. Stress can cause toxins to build up in the body. These substances cause muscle stiffness and can deprive the body of precious oxygen. If left unchecked, stress will start to show up by accelerating the aging process. Both of the elements cause unnecessary and premature aging of the body and skin.

The modern world comes at a high price. This price is stress. Everyone is under more stress. There is greater competition for everything and we have to deal with it. What happens when the body is put under stress? Our natural instinct is the fight or flight reaction. Our metabolism increases as the hands and feet are mobilized for action. Our major organs are put in a supporting role to help protect the body and get it ready for action. However, most stress we encounter is not from seeing a lion, but instead is mental pressure. This mental pressure causes the same reaction, but does not have the same release, since no real physical action is taken. This type of stress builds up toxic chemicals in the body without a way to release them out.

If we are out running errands and are running behind what happens? We start to get nervous or stressed. We have all these things to get done and we aren’t quite getting there. This builds up stress in our bodies, but we are not releasing them through any physical action. Chemicals and toxins build up in the body. They need to be released. How can we do that? One proven effective method is massage therapy. Not only does massage therapy such as shiatsu or Swedish massage help to release toxins, but it also helps us to relax. Both of these massage techniques are available in the best massage chair brands.

What about the whole body anti aging thing. Let us take a look at reflexology massage. This therapy helps to reverse the process of stress. I guess we should call is anti stress. Reflexology works by stimulating trigger points in the feet to help calm and relax the major organs. Reflexology charts have been developed showing parts of the feet and their corresponding organ that they connect with. By massaging these points, the feet send signals to calm the organs. Remember, when you were under stress, the organs send signals to the feet and hands to be ready. While the massage chair stimulates your trigger points in your feet, it is also performing a full body massage. Now your body and mind begin to relax.

Unfortunately stress is ongoing and continuous. It has become a part of modern life. To counteract this ongoing barrage of stress, your anti aging treatment must also be ongoing. Regular and frequent massage therapy is just such a treatment. The removal of the waste products of stress is an important factor in keeping the body healthy and to fight the ongoing battle with the aging process. To receive ongoing massage therapy, massage chairs are the most convenient and economical method. They offer in home convenience and can be used at any time. Keep yourself healthy and retain your youthful look with a massage chair recliner.

Deep tissue massage is found to be effective at relieving more chronic pain conditions. Lighter massage techniques do not penetrate as deeply to be effective. When a deep tissue massage is applied, it targets the deeper layers of the muscles. Muscles breakdown when used. To restore flexibility and heal scar tissue, deep pressure and stroking is applied. The stroking and pressure stretch out the muscle tissues increasing their flexibility.

After performing exercise, you may notice your muscles become stiffer. Exercise breaks down the muscle tissue making the tendons shorter and more fibrous. That is why it is good to stretch muscles before and after exercise. While stretching elongates the whole muscle, massage targets smaller regions for restoration. A deep tissue massage seeks to elongate and stretch the tendons to increase their elasticity and flexibility.

If you are a team member of a professional sports franchise, then your routinely obtain deep tissue massage. This is known to help healing form injuries and to increase range of motion of muscles. The heavy workouts cause muscles to breakdown and become tight. Loosening the muscles regains their former flexibility. However, not all of us have access to a massage therapist.

Studies show that deep tissue is effective for relieving muscle pain, tension and anxiety. Since the daily stress on our bodies is continuous, the treatments are only truly beneficial when received on a continuous, recurring basis. A one time treatment is not a one-time cure all. To get daily pain relief, the treatment must be given with sufficient frequency. This is where a deep tissue massage chair can be a tremendous asset. There is an amazing variety of potential massage therapies to target areas for pain relief.

If you are interested in massage chairs that provide deep tissue massages. Two of the best massage chair recliners come from Panasonic and Omega Massage. These leaders integrate excellent technology to provide deep tissue relief. Not only can you get deep tissue massage, but it can be complimented with lower body stretches, full body heat and even synchronized music and massage functions. The technology available is outstanding and the effectiveness of relief is there to boot.

These massage chair companies are developing therapies for persons who suffer from more chronic conditions such as chronic pain, fibromyalgia, muscle cramping and even carpal tunnel syndrome. Many new features target such areas. With air compression massage, for example, there are airbags for your hands and forearms. The program will gently squeeze, hold and then release. This gentle, repetitive action loosens the muscles, relieves aches and pains. Massage chairs can deliver full body massages from the neck to the feet.

Before running down to the store and buying a massage chair, make sure that your doctor recommends a deep tissue massage. Although deep tissue massage is effective, it may not be right for you. Deep tissue penetrates more thoroughly which could cause some pain or discomfort the next day. This is just your body telling you that the massage penetrated thoroughly. Your muscles have been stretched, elongated and restored.

To get the full benefit of any massage treatment, it must be performed at a regular, sustained interval. If you exercise regularly, then you should receive massage regularly. Each action like exercise, requires an equal an opposite counteraction like massage therapy. Life is about balance. We know the balance is always changing, so too must the counter balances. Obtaining pain relief is a counter balance to the source of the pain. The healing process is a natural reversal of the damaging process. Look to integrate massage therapy into your routine with a massage chair recliner. They are actually very cost effective in the long run.

We are asked many times by potential massage chair buyers as to the most important features in a massage chair. There is a vast array of massage chairs on the market with many features, options, and price points. It is good to know what you really want out of the massage chair recliner to help guide your decision making. We have put together the 5 most important massage chair features for your review:

Shiatsu Massage Therapy: Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese massage which uses pressure points, tapping and kneading to provide a very invigorating massage. The premier massage chair brands integrate a body scan to detect your pressure points. The massage is then tailored to each individual. The shiatsu uses a combination of massage techniques, so the programming by the manufacturer is very important.

Air Massage System: The lower body massage is more effectively covered with an air massage system. An air massage system uses airbags to perform squeezing and holding movements. Air bags can be designed in any shape and size. They are used for the feet, calves, thighs, hips, buttocks, arms and hands. Since they are very flexible, they can be used throughout the massage chair recliner. Air systems use a compressor and a manifold to regulate the air flow to the various airbags. For effective relief for the body extremities an air massage system is the way to go.

Massage Courses: Massage courses are different areas that can be covered for your back. The massage rollers in the back of the chair can be moved to one spot, an area or the whole back. Massage courses enable the user to choose which area to cover with a manual massage. Basic massage chairs have 3 massage courses (upper, lower and whole back). In top level massage chairs, 4 or 5 manual courses are typical. If you have lower back pain, then select the lower back massage course and the chair focuses on that region.

Footrest Extension: This is a rather simple feature, but since massage chairs originated in Japan, they have always been small for the American market. To accommodate taller users (i.e. the average American), a footrest extension is critical. Most foot rest extensions allow the foot rest to go out an extra 3 to 4 inches. This doesn?t seem like a lot, but it is the difference between fitting in the massage chair and not. If you are five foot ten or over, you definitely want to investigate this further.

Music – Massage Synchronization: The top massage chair manufacturers have incorporated a music and massage synchronization function. This is a fascinating technology. With the touch of a button, the massage will synchronize its movements to the rhythm of the music. The intensity of the massage also varies with the tempo. Rock music will produce a more invigorating massage then say classical music. It is an interesting technology and when coupled with the right music can be very effective in reducing stress.

We are presenting the five key features that are available from the best massage chairs on the market today. These features represent some interesting innovation on the part of the massage chair manufacturers. These chairs continue to advance rapidly and the choices are getting wider and the features more effective. Make sure you determine the important results you want for your longer term massage therapy needs. Find the right chair just for your needs.