If you’re looking for the closest thing to your own personal masseuse then you’re probably going to end up searching for the perfect massage chair.
We understand that it’s a big investment, not just financially but also in terms of space within your home, which is why making the right decision is so important.
Luckily we’ve taken a look at the market and compiled the best of the best massage chairs at a range of different prices for you to consider.
Did you know?
The massage chair was first introduced to the market in the late 1980s!
Our 9 Best Massage Chair Reviews (for the Ultimate Relaxation)
Each massage chair offers its own unique mix of features and settings, which can be tricky to compare if you haven’t owned one before.
To help, we’ve highlighted the features of each chair and also included a handy buying guide later in this article so you can make the most informed decision.
Types of Massage Chairs
Here are the different types of massage chairs available so you can start to refine your search:
Recliner
The most traditional type of massage chair is the recliner. Normally a lower cost option than a zero gravity chair, it is essentially a comfortable chair with massage features so fits well within the home.
Zero Gravity
Inspired by space travel, zero gravity recliners are designed to really take the pressure off your legs and back and evenly distribute your weight for relief from daily pain.
Full Body
A full body massage chair takes care of the whole body, normally cradling the user to provide all over relief, typically a higher priced product as it claims to be the closest thing to a human massage.
Ottoman
If you want a more traditional look, you may opt for a matching ottoman. This is a chair with a separate footstool, both of which have massage rollers and / or airbags.
Chair / Seat Pad
If you don’t have the budget for a massage chair or don’t have the space available then you can essentially create your own with a seat pad. Seat pads can be attached on to your favorite chair or be used while sat up in bed.
Features of Massage Chairs
The different functions and features of massage chairs can feel a bit overwhelming, so here we’ve broken them down in to different categories so you can be sure you’re choosing what’s right for you:
Shape
S Shape
Most chairs traditionally use an S-Shape Track System. If you think of the letter ’S’, this is the way the massage rollers will run up and down your back, following the curvature of your spine.
L Shape
L-Shape chairs use a different technique, running up and down your back but also in to the seat beneath you as well, just imagine you’re sitting on the letter ‘L’.
It’s essentially an extension of the S-Shape, helping to not just cover your back but also get right in to your lower back and hamstrings.
Massage Types
Shiatsu
Look for this feature, a Japanese massage technique, if you want to replicate the hands of a masseuse as closely as possible! Some shiatsu massage chairs include an optional direction mode so the nodes can change direction for a more realistic massage.
Percussion
Percussion is a style of massage and users have described this technique as “thundering on your back”, so perfect if you want a deep tissue massage, perhaps not ideal if you’re looking for something a little less intense.
Kneading
Kneading is a massage technique that involves applying pressure to the muscles, relieving tension by lifting and rolling the tissues. Massage chairs replicate this technique with nodes and airbags, perfect if you want to release muscle knots.
Compression
Compression massage uses air bags within the chair to recreate a tapping massage, putting pressure on different areas to provide relief from pain.
Stretching
Stretching programs are when the chair gently expands, pulling your limbs to encourage a stretch in your spine. The technique can help to lubricate joints and muscles, as well as improve your flexibility.
Tapping
Tapping is probably one of the oldest massage methods. It can be a gentle, but firm, technique that involves the use of the fingertips to release points of tension and improve circulation. Massage chairs offering this feature can be beneficial to those looking to treat smaller body areas.
Programs and Settings
Intensity / Speed Settings
If you have good days and bad days and want a massage that can flex with you then you want to look for a massager with a selection of intensity settings. Some devices only come with one setting so make sure you choose what is right for you.
Don’t assume that more intensity settings means more power. It generally means that the intensity increases in smaller increments than its competitors.
No. of Auto Programs
Each chair has a number of preset, automatic programs that have been specially tailored.
The number of these auto programs varies between chairs, so if you like lots of choice you might want to consider a chair that offers a full range of different programs.
Memory / Recall
If your pain is hard to reach and you get the intensity just right it can be frustrating to have to go through the various settings each time. Memory / recall functions remember the intensity, speed and style of massage you enjoy which can be helpful day to day.
Vibration
Some units offer an additional vibration function which might be something you want to consider for that added extra relief.
Heat
Heat can offer comforting relief from pain as it heats the skin which stimulates the sensors and blocks the pain signals being sent to the brain.
Many different massagers include this option so it’s worth looking out for. Infrared heat is also a feature offered by some devices.
Auto Shut Down
Auto Shut Down can be great as it protects you and the unit from overheating, however if it takes you a while to get to the source of your pain, a short auto shut down could be frustrating.
Body Scan Technology
This technology within the chair means it will scan your body shape and then tailor your massage to the places you require.
Manual Mode
If you like having full control over your massage rather than using presets than you might want to choose a chair that comes with a manual mode. Not all chairs have this so it is important to check.
Entertainment and Connectivity
Remote Control
All chairs come with some form of remote control, whether it’s built in to the chair or wireless. Some chairs now offer touch screen remotes, so think about how you’d like to operate the chair.
Car Charger
Obviously only for chair pads! Using your device in your car, between meetings for example, might be important to you, so look for a seat pad that ships with an in car charger.
USB Port
Some chairs come with a USB port so you can charge your mobile device and use it while you’re receiving your massage.
MP3 Player
If playing music is important to you then some models come with an mp3 player allowing you to load in your favorite songs.
Bluetooth Speakers
Certain chairs come with built-in Bluetooth speakers, allowing you to connect up your mobile or tablet and create a more ambient experience.
Logistics
Size
Take a look at the size of the chair and how it may fit in to your living space as they can be large items. Space saving designs are available.
Weight
If you want a chair you can easily move from room to room then take a look at the weight of the chair as they can be cumbersome but there are some lightweight options available.
Swivel Base
If you want to use your massage chair as an office chair then a swivel base could be handy, as essentially the chair rotates on a base.
Space Saving
Some chairs use space saving technology, created to help with smaller living spaces, requiring minimal space from the wall when reclined.
Wheels
Some massage chairs, such as the Real Relax massage chair, have wheels. This gives you the ability to move the chair easily from room to room.
Warranty
It’s worth taking a look at the warranty offered as they vary widely from one chair to another, for example does it just cover labor? Or parts too? For how many years?
Coverage
Head Massager
If you’re looking for help with headaches or migraines then you might want to look for a chair that incorporates a head massager for relief from your pain.
Foot Massager
Chairs may also come with a foot massager, either separately as an ottoman or as part of the chair. They can include air bags or rollers for a deep and intense foot massage.
Neck Massager
Neck massage is also a function that can be included as part of the chair, so if you carry tension there it could be worth considering a model with a neck massager.
Shoulder Massager
Air bags and rollers are functions that you’ll find in some chairs targeting the shoulders for pain relief.
Benefits of a Massage Chair
Conditions of the Joints and Muscles
Arthritis
Chiropractors and doctors often use massage chairs to help those coping with arthritis to help improve their flexibility.
Massage therapy can be an effective treatment for arthritis, however for certain forms of severe arthritis it can have a negative effect so it’s important to consult with your doctor.
Back Pain
Massage chairs are essentially created to help to deal with back pain. They are shown to have many benefits, including improving flexibility and decreasing muscle tension.
Knots
Muscle knots are when the muscle tightens or contracts even when they’re not being used, massage helps to relax the muscle, in turn helping to loosen the knot.
Muscle Tension
Tension in the muscles can also be relieved, whether in your neck, shoulders or back.
Neck Pain
Neck massagers mimic the hands of a masseuse stimulating the muscles and nerve endings. Research has shown that massage therapy is an effective treatment for chronic neck pain, and a chair massager is essentially simulating this technique.
Shoulder Pain
Shoulder pain is one of the most common pain complaints reported in the US, and by stimulating the muscles with a massager it is believed that this provides relief.
Posture
Poor posture has been shown to cause neck and shoulder pain. Massage chairs can help with the associated pain and hopefully help to improve flexibility and overall posture.
Hormonal Conditions
Diabetes
Massage therapy has been recommended for sufferers of diabetes for over 100 years, as massage therapy at injection sites can help to improve insulin absorption.
Conditions of the Nervous System
Fibromyalgia
There are many benefits to fibromyalgia patients from using massage therapy, including decreased stress hormones and increased serotonin levels.
Sciatica
Massage chairs are suggested as an effective treatment for those suffering from sciatica.
Massage chairs with ottomans in particular are ideal as sciatica sufferers can experience a lot of leg pain.
Blood Flow and Pressure
Hypertension
Hypertension, which leads to heart disease and stroke, causes the sufferer to have high blood pressure. Massage as a therapy is proven to help reduce a patient’s heart rate and stress levels.
Increase Blood Flow
Regular massage can help to increase blood flow within users, ideal for helping with a number of different conditions.
Mental Health Conditions
Reduce Anxiety
Massage therapy is recommended as a treatment option for those suffering from Generalized Anxiety Disorder, helping them to relax and relieve tense muscles.
Relaxation
It’s no surprise that one of the major benefits of a massage chair is relaxation! If you’re struggling to unwind it could be a great investment.
Stress Reduction
A massage chair works to relax tense muscles, so those working in stressful environments or perhaps those that just need a little time out, may benefit hugely.
FAQs
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References
- Miller, J. (2018) Heat Packs. Why does heat feel so good? [Online] Available from: https://physioworks.com.au/faq/heat-packs-why-does-heat-feel-so-good/ [Accessed 5 August 2020]. ↩
- SteadyHealth. (2015) Massage Chairs Provide Relief Of Low Back Pain And Arthritis. [Online] Available from: https://ic.steadyhealth.com/massage-chairs-provide-relief-of-low-back-pain-and-arthritis [Accessed 5 August 2020]. ↩
- Healthline. (2018) How to Treat and Prevent Muscle Knots. [Online] Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/muscle-knots#definition1 [Accessed 5 August 2020]. ↩
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2006) QuickStats: Percentage of Adults Reporting Joint Pain or Stiffness, – National Health Interview Survey, United States, 2006. [Online] Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5717a9.htm [Accessed 5 August 2020]. ↩
- Muscle Clinic. (2012) How Poor Posture Causes Neck And Shoulder Pain. [Online] Available from: https://www.muscleclinic.co.uk/how-poor-posture-causes-neck-and-shoulder-pain/ [Accessed 5 August 2020]. ↩
- American Diabetes Association. (2018) Statistics About Diabetes. [Online] Available from: https://www.diabetes.org/resources/statistics/statistics-about-diabetes [Accessed 5 August 2020]. ↩
- Pain Doctor. (2017) 6 Amazing Benefits Of Massage For Fibromyalgia Patients. [Online] Available from: https://paindoctor.com/massage-for-fibromyalgia/ [Accessed 5 August 2020]. ↩
- Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. (2018) The Benefits of Massage for Hypertension. [Online] Available from: https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2015/01/24/benefits-massage-hypertension [Accessed 5 August 2020]. ↩
- Kecskes, A. A. (2018) Therapeutic Massage for Generalized Anxiety Disorder. [Online] Available from: https://www.pacificcollege.edu/news/blog/2014/11/05/therapeutic-massage-generalized-anxiety-disorder [Accessed 5 August 2020]. ↩
Massage chairs do the work of relieving tension and providing relief from any pain that you may be experiencing. They are mostly used by those people sufferer from different body conditions. They are also good at relaxing all types of tense in muscles.