Massage Chair Therapy Guide
Massage therapy is probably one of the oldest methods of healing and rejuvenation. Its roots can be traced back to 2000 BC where it was used by the Romans. It has been used as a method to help ease aches, pains and relieve tension in the body. With the advance of technology, massage chairs are now available which include many massage techniques as well as supplemental treatments for wellness.
Low Back Massage: one of the biggest health problems and the United States is low back pain. This is one of the highest occurring workplace injuries. Massage therapy is used to help increase the flexibility of the soft tissue and muscles of the low back. These muscle areas become stiff which leads to pain and discomfort. There are a variety of massage techniques to help restore the flexibility of these soft tissue areas in massage chairs.
Upper Back Massage: stiffness of the shoulders and neck is a common problem that people experience. This can be remedied with a soothing and relaxing massage. The use of a shiatsu massage or kneading can help to relieve the stiffness in the shoulder area. When the muscles become tight, this can result in tension and discomfort. A massage is your best bet to relieve these issues.
Shiatsu Massage: this is a traditional massage technique that originated in Japan. It uses a combination of massage movements and the stimulation of acupoints. This can be a very invigorating massage to receive. It helps to clear the mind and to assist with better circulation in the body. Massage chairs are equipped to scan the back and to identify your acupoints.
Reflexology Massage: this is a very interesting massage technique that uses trigger points in the hands and the feet. Pressure is directed at specific trigger points in the feet which correspond to major organs in the body. Massage chairs concentrated the massage on the feet to help relieve tension throughout the body. This is a soothing massage to relieve aching feet as well.
Air Compression Massage: many massage chairs use an air compression massage for the larger muscle groups. A compressor is used to deliver air to air bags located strategically throughout the massage chair. This type of massage provides the gentle squeeze, hold and release to provide relief.
Stretching: Many of the better massage chairs contained a stretching system. These stretching systems are usually for the lower body. The feet are held in the leg rest using airbags. Next the leg rest is raised to its top position. It is then lowered to a number of different points. Each point helps to stretch out the legs from the hips to the ankles.
Heating elements: the best massage chairs now integrate heating systems and to their recliners. Heat is commonly used to help reduce swelling particularly with athletes. It is also known to assist with enhance blood flow.
Music Therapy: Music is typically used in massage therapy to help the mind relax. The soothing rhythm of soft music helps to distract the mind off of its troubles. When the mind relaxes is, it helps to release tension in the body making it more responsive to the massage therapy.
There are many therapeutic features constantly being added to massage chairs. Not all manufacturers include these features in their massage recliners. Think about some of the longer-term benefits that you can enjoy with these types of features. Make a list of the ones that you think are important for you in this way, you will be assured to find the perfect massage chair for you.