A Buyer’s Guide to
the ultimate
massage
chair
Back pain
With so many brands and styles of massage chairs, it can be tough to decipher the differences. Let's start with understanding the basics. This guide will walk you through the key facets of your decision making including programs, features, health benefits, and a peek at our top sellers.
What is a Massage Chair?
Massage therapy has been in existence for thousands of years, dating as far back as ancient Greek and Egyptian times. It is believed to address the same issues it does now - anxiety, pain, injuries, stress, increase relaxation, improve one's mood, lower blood pressure, and more.
Massage has many styles and techniques, including acupressure, reflexology, shiatsu, and deep tissue. These forms are featured in our massage chairs. The first modern massage chair appeared around the 1950s, made with a wheel and crank. Now, thanks to technology, we can electronically control the chairs by adjusting them to our liking.
MASSAGE CHAIR FEATURES
Now, let's take a closer look at the features offered in our massage chairs.
Space Saving
Space-saving shrinks the amount of space you need to fully recline a massage chair. The technology is helpful when you don’t have much room around you or want to keep the massage chair closer to a wall.While some chairs only require a few inches to recline, others still need about a foot, so it is highly recommended you purchase a chair with the space-saving feature should you have limited space.
Bluetooth & App Compatibility
Manufacturers are adding Bluetooth to massage chairs, enabling users to connect with smart devices for audio enjoyment through built-in speakers. Sync Massage feature synchronizes massage with music beats for immersive relaxation. Smartphone apps offer customization and control, compatible with most modern chairs for Android or iPhone users. Simply download the app, pair with the chair, and enjoy personalized relaxation.
Body-Scan Technology
This is the most accurate and precise massage tech. It is personalized to your body size and shape. Body scan utilizes sensors and innovative technology to register the accurate shape of each user. This way, the rollers can be customized to target your needs. The intensity and placement can still be adjusted should any changes be needed. As a standard feature in today’s chairs, you’d be hard-pressed to miss out on this technology.
Adjustable Intensity
Massage chairs now include Bluetooth for syncing with smart devices, letting users listen to podcasts, audiobooks, or music through built-in speakers. The Sync Massage feature synchronizes massage with music beats for immersion. Smartphone apps offer further customization and control, compatible with most modern chairs for Android or iPhone users. Simply download the app, pair it with the chair, and enjoy personalized relaxation.
S-Tracks & L-Tracks
Massage chairs typically feature two main track types: S-Track and L-Track. Some chairs combine both, forming SPlus or SL Track models. The S-Track conforms to the spine's curve, focusing on specific back areas. Conversely, the L-Track extends from the neck to the lower back, reaching the glutes and hamstrings for comprehensive massages, albeit often at a higher price point than S-Track chairs.
Zero-Gravity Recline
While most massage chairs recline, not all attain the zero-gravity position pioneered by NASA. This posture, with legs above the heart, reduces joint stress and deepens massages. Some chairs automatically recline to this position, while others offer one-touch or two-stage options. Advanced models may include inversion therapy for improved circulation. Zero gravity offers superior spinal decompression and deeper massages, making it a premium feature.
Heat
When heat and massage combine, they work in unison to provide a better experience. The duo improves blood flow circulation which helps rid the body of built-up toxins. Heated massage also helps improve muscle flexibility. It also helps with certain medical issues such as Arthritis and deep tissue injuries. Experience the magic of warmth while the knots are worked out of your back.
Airbag
Airbag Compression in massage chairs utilizes compression to relieve stiffness, improve circulation, and aid the lymphatic system in eliminating toxins. It allows for adjustable intensity levels to target specific areas. Unlike traditional massagers that use rollers for kneading, rolling, or tapping, airbags perform compression by inflating and deflating in the targeted area, with intensity determined by speed and quantity of inflation.
Foot & Calf
A user favorite, the foot, and calf massage features are most commonly found in the larger massage chairs. There’s nothing better than a nice evening massage after a long day of being on your feet. Many can be adjusted for the placement and intensity that better suits your needs. These massagers can work away aches and increase circulation to your lower extremities. Step into a chair and let it ease the foot pain away.
2D, 3D, & 4D Rollers
For beginners, the 2D massage is a basic option, focusing on surface muscles without deep penetration. Moving up, 3D massage, typical in modern chairs, delves deeper into shoulder and neck muscles for a more intense experience. For the deepest massage, 4D rollers offer unparalleled penetration, targeting various angles for deep tissue massage. The intensity remains relatively consistent between 3D and 4D options.
Discover Diverse Massage Experiences
Find your ideal massage experience with massage chairs, offering a spectrum from gentle Swedish to intensive Deep Tissue massages. Whether for relaxation or relief from chronic pain, explore diverse options at the touch of a button.
SWEDISH
This is the most popular type of massage. It is recommended for those who are new to massages or have a medium pain tolerance. The technique involves longer massage strokes that warm the muscle and release tension which breaks up the knots. Health benefits include pain relief and improved circulation. In massage chairs, this style can be found under the Relax or Sleep function. Most people can enjoy an easy-going Swedish massage before bedtime.
DEEP TISSUE
This massage style is a step above the Swedish massage. Deep Tissue massages do what their name suggests - targets deeper muscle and connective tissue. It is especially helpful at treating chronically tense areas or contracted muscles such as the neck, back, and shoulders. While Deep Tissue massages are meant to aid in relaxation, they do tend to be more on the intense side, and therefore probably better off for those with higher pain tolerance.
REFLEXOLOGY
Reflexology is used to improve relaxation and ease foot tension. The function is found in the footrest and adds to your overall massage experience.This massage style is solely performed on the feet by delivering pressure to specific areas that are believed to correlate with the release of endorphins. Endorphins are natural pain relievers that reduce stress.
SHIATSU
Shiatsu translates to “finger pressure” and the technique involves stretching, pressure, and rotating for a full-body restoration effect. In this way, Shiatsu is often compared with acupressure. It helps reduce stress and muscle pain and tightness.The ancient belief is that when you feel pain in a specific area, that energy channel may be blocked. Shiatsu is meant to relieve the blocks and provide a refreshing massage.
JUNETSU
Junetsu massage is a specialized technique that utilizes deep, penetrating pressure to target muscle tension and knots effectively. Originating from Japan, Junetsu massage incorporates precise, circular motions to stimulate blood flow and release trapped energy, promoting relaxation and rejuvenation. This method is known for its ability to provide intense relief for sore muscles and promote overall well-being.
TAPPING
Tapping massage is a beneficial way to remove stiffness, promote circulation, and even break up scar tissue. It is often referred to as a Percussion massage by its series of rapid strokes that stimulate the muscles and connective tissue. People often say it feels like you’re being drummed on.
KNEADING
Kneading massages lift and stretch the muscles to relieve tension and soreness. It also promotes improved blood and lymph circulation.
Massage chairs perform kneading by moving in small circular motions on both sides of your spine. Most massage chairs have a Kneading massage option, which is also known as a grasping style. It reaches those hard-to-reach areas of the neck using 3D rollers.
VIBRATION
Vibration Massage is an effective method for improving circulation relieving soreness. Massage chairs perform this technique by using vibration plates -typically found in the seat. They provide a vibration massage with adjustable intensity.
ROLLING
Rolling massages focus on the muscles right next to the spine. The rollers apply constant pressure as they glide up and down the back. The typically very tight muscles are then warmed and loosened in order to prepare you for a full massage.
STRETCH
This is a great way to remove knots in muscles as well as loosen any tight muscles that may be bothering you. Most massage chairs use a built-in airbag system to strategically hold you in place and help you get in that must-needed deep stretch. Stretch massage also helps relax and prepare your body for a deeper massage. Most people know these massages for helping them crack their back.
COMPRESSION
A Compression or Squeeze massage alleviates tension in the hips and thighs. The massage chair inflates airbags near the hip area and squeezes different sections. This technique aids in relieving stress and joint pain.
Health Benefits of Massage Chairs
Massages offer numerous benefits beyond relaxation, aiding headaches, anxiety, and stress-related aches. They're not exclusive to athletes and can regulate blood pressure and accelerate injury recoveries. In summary, regular massages can enhance your quality of life.
Chromotherapy
Inversion Therapy
Music Therapy
Pregnancy Therapy
Injury
Wellness With Long-Term Value
Consider the long-term value when purchasing a massage chair versus paying for regular massages. Review these key facts to inform your investment decision.
Entry-level massages typically cost around $1 per minute, with prices escalating at upscale venues. Discounts may initially help but can diminish for loyal customers, along with additional gratuity costs. The first 5-10 minutes of a session are often spent relaxing, reducing effective massage time to about 45 minutes per hour. This frequency doesn't optimize time and money. Conversely, a massage chair entails a one-time payment and provides anytime access without appointments or extra expenses, ensuring maximum value.
Accessibility, second only to cost, is crucial in choosing spa or massage services. Limited availability and inconsistent experiences with different masseurs are common concerns. Owning a massage chair at home eliminates these issues, providing convenient, high-quality relief on-demand without scheduling hassles or commuting.
OUR BEST SELLING MASSAGE CHAIRS
CirC-Premium SL-Track Heated Massage Chair
OREST OA-5500 Massage Chair
AmaMedic Hilux 4D Massage Chair
Titan Pro Cascade 3D Massage Chair
Ji Zero Wall Heated L-Track Massage Chair
Osaki OS-4D Escape
