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Back And Neck Support
Products!
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7 Things To Consider When Buying A Massage Chair
Whether
you suffer from chronic back or neck pain, want to prevent injuries and
discomfort, or are just looking for a really comfortable chair, a
massage chair is a great way to go. Massage chairs and recliners relax,
rejuvenate, and help prevent even the most stubborn pain and discomfort.
When you buy a massage
chair there are a few important features to evaluate. Below are some of
the most important features you should consider:
- Types Of Massage - A high quality massage chair should deliver different types of massage.
- Calf massage is administered by mechanical or air devices in a 3-dimensional massage.
- Compression is a type of massage that combines strokes pushed firmly on the muscles along the spine and inward towards the spine.
- Full body stretch is when the calf massage mechanism gently holds the legs in place as the chair reclines to arch and stretch the back.
- Kneading is a circular movement that applies and releases pressure to the spine and neck.
- Percussion/tapping is when rapid movements are delivered up and down the spine. Usually the quicker the taps, the better the result.
- Reflexology is when pressure similar to thumb pressure is applied to the feet.
- Rolling
is when build-in rollers in the chair move up and down the spine to
help stretch back muscles and relieve pressure on spinal discs. Rolling
is often used to help prepare back muscles for deeper massage.
- Massage Delivery Mechanism - Massage
chairs deliver massage in different ways. Some chairs use air pressure,
vibration, and discs to administer massage. The highest quality chairs
use flexible rollers. And generally the larger the roller, the more
targeted the massage.
- Personalization To Body Size And Shape -
A good massage chair will adjust the height/width setting of the
chair's massage devices to suite personal preferences. Usually this is
controlled by a joystick or remote control. Some chairs even have
scanning systems that map your body to determine areas where massage
therapy is most needed.
- Zero Gravity Recline - This
is a technique that was developed by NASA to minimize force exerted on
astronauts' spines during takeoff. In an upright position, either
standing or sitting, gravity places pressure on the spine. This causes
the discs to compress and muscles to contract to maintain balance. When
gravity is neutralized, back muscles rest and the discs return to their
normal size and shape. Zero gravity recliners extend the lower legs
above the heart to achieve this neutralized gravity effect on the back.
- Motor - As
the number of chair features increases so does the stress placed on a
chair's motor. It is important to consider the quality of a massage
chair's motor as it can make a significant difference in performance
and durability. Some chair have one motor to perform all of the
functions the chair provides. Other chairs come with multiple motors,
each of which performs specific functions.
- Warranty -
As with any major purchase, consider the warranty that is offered by
the manufacturer. A manufacturer's warranty is often a sign of the
manufacturer's confidence in their product. Also consider the return
policy of the retailer from whom you buy the chair.
- Design - And
finally consider the chair's design. Your massage chair will no doubt
be placed in a popular room in your home and you will want it to
complement the existing decor. You will also want to ensure that the
size and shape of the chair work with the layout of your room. Some
chairs come with space saving features that allow for more options when
deciding where to place the chair in your home.
Additional Considerations -
High quality massage
chairs often provide pre-programmed massage sessions or wellness
programs. For instance some chairs will offer a full body session, a
shoulder session, a lower back session, and morning nighttime massages.
These pre-programmed features allow you to unwind and let the chair do
the work.
Some chairs come with accessories such as an on-board power outlet, swing out cup holder, and an easy glide transport roller.
Look for seat cushions made from high quality materials such as memory foam.
Some massage chairs
provide heat application for additional pain relief and comfort. This
adds an extra level of relaxation to your massages.
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