Zero gravity chairs can help you relax and decompress – literally. Designed to take pressure off your spine and help alleviate pain, these chairs offer a wealth of health benefits.

Let’s take a closer look at these zero gravity chair benefits and answer important questions like “are zero gravity chairs good for lower back pain?”

1. They Take Stress Off the Spine

When you sit in the zero gravity position, your legs are elevated above your heart and your weight is evenly distributed across your body. Both of these factors help take the stress off the spine, allowing you to fully relax.

Don’t worry if you fall asleep in your chair either. Sleeping in a zero gravity chair can be beneficial for your spine. Zero gravity helps:

• Prevent vertebrae compression
• Takes pressure off your lower back by raising your knees
• Alleviates tension in the hips

By taking that pressure off your spine, your body can relax or even fall asleep – and stay asleep – without discomfort.

2. They Can Help with Lower Back Pain

Are zero gravity chairs good for your back? Absolutely! If you’re like most people, you spend a lot of time sitting at a desk or on the couch. Unfortunately, sitting for long periods of time can eventually cause back pain.

Because this position takes pressure off your spine, your lower back gets some much-needed relief and the chance to heal. In addition, the vertebrae get an opportunity to decompress, which helps alleviate pain caused by tension and inflammation.

Zero gravity can help with pain in general. Many people find that just a short relaxation session in a zero gravity chair can help get rid of headaches and pain in other parts of the body.

3. They Can Help Boost Circulation

Along with pain relief and decompression, the zero gravity position can also help improve blood flow. When your legs are elevated above your heart, your heart doesn’t have to work as hard to pump blood and move oxygen through your body.

Better circulation and keeping your legs elevated can also help:

• Reduce swelling or pain in the legs
• Reduce stress and strain on your heart
• Keep your blood pressure in check
• Accelerate healing from injuries

If you’re looking for the best chair for leg circulation, consider our Perfect Chair line. The Perfect Chair is artfully crafted with form and function in mind. Effortlessly glide into the zero gravity position for deep relaxation at any time.

We offer a few upholstery packages to enhance the zero gravity experience:

• Comfort: Adjustable lumbar support (manual), and head pillow with magnetic adjustability.
• Performance: Everything you get in the comfort package, with an upgrade to memory foam PLUS and powered (rather than manual) adjustable lumbar support.
• Supreme: Everything offered in the Performance package and 3D EasePoint Technology for enhanced comfort, jade stone heat system to melt away tension and stress, and integrated controls for easy use. This option also comes with a full-coverage tuxedo back cover.

The Perfect Chair can help you enjoy the benefits of improved circulation from the zero gravity position.

4. They Can Help Improve Posture

An estimated 80% of Americans will deal with poor posture at some point in their lives. If you work at a desk all day, there’s a good chance that your posture has suffered – especially if you don’t have an ergonomic workspace.

Sitting in the zero gravity position may actually help improve your posture. Decompressing your spine and correcting misalignments can help improve your posture. Zero gravity recliners can also keep you in a proper seated position while you sit or relax.

Improving your posture can have benefits of its own. After sitting in a zero gravity chair, you may notice less tension and pain in your neck and shoulders. This is because you’re correcting misalignments and taking pressure off of your spine. Your shoulders and neck finally get a chance to relax.

5. They Can Help Alleviate Sore Muscles

A zero gravity chair can help alleviate sore muscles caused by injury, exercise or just being on your feet all day. Here’s how:

• Improved blood circulation helps get more oxygen and nutrients to your aching muscles for faster healing.
• Spinal decompression helps take pressure off your back for added pain relief.
• Your weight is evenly distributed, which helps take excess pressure off tired muscles.

Chairs that also have a massage function can take muscle relaxation to a new level.

6. They Can Help You Relax

All of the benefits above can help you achieve one important thing: relaxation. When you’re sitting in a comfortable position without any pain or pressure in your body, you can slip into a total state of relaxation.

Life can be stressful, but a zero gravity chair can help. Just kick back, relax and breathe.

Final Thoughts

These are some of the many health benefits of zero gravity chairs. We offer a wide selection of recliners and massage chairs that move into the zero gravity position, allowing you to reap the benefits of less back pain, better circulation and blissful relaxation.

Balance is a term commonly used in today’s world and it’s consistently connected to energy. These terms have become catch phrases without a consensus understanding of the words true meaning.

In reference to the human body, human output, and recovery, the term balance is truly nonexistent. In the medical views we work in “range” instead of balance, this is due heavily to the fact that life is a progression. Balance is a term that only exists in a stagnant form, a stage or state of no movement and no outside influences. Everyday your environment is forever changing just as you are forever changing. By the time you finish reading this article you will have gotten older, your environmental influences can be different and your internal influences may have changed as well. 

In trying to learn how to recover it is extremely important that you understand that it is a cycle. The things that you do will be extremely effective until your body builds a tolerance to that particular thing, which is when it’s important to introduce something new. Ironically, after introducing 3 to 4 new things you will be able to go back to your original recovery regimen and repeat that same cycle as long as there are no new injuries. We must remember that our body is our experience, and what works for us an individuals doesn’t have to fit into a current philosophy practiced. The most important part is that it works for you and allows you to be at your best at a most consistent base.

No one will ever not have bad days that a part of the journey and “balance” give the thought that when those bad days happen it’s because you of out of sorts. Days when you aren’t feeling 100 percent can come from a long line of things but most of them aren’t bad especially when you are training towards a goal of getting better. Growth in any arena is extremely difficult and stressful but it’s because you are pushing your mind and body to new levels. This is simply the act of you changing your threshold or range, while doing this it’s important to consume enough of the proper food, the correct amount of water as well as get the proper a mouth of rest (not sleep but rest, including recovery using products such as the Super Novo massage chair). 

Over the next 90 days I will document my journey and I prepare for the opportunity to win 4 Long Drive World Championships in three different divisions. During the next 90 days I will push myself at the highest levels of all ranges to see if I can achieve this goal. It will be extremely tough but necessary to get every ounce of production out of my body. I hope you enjoy following me on this journey. 

Massage therapy offers a wealth of health and wellness benefits for older adults. However, booking regular massages with a professional masseuse can be costly and difficult to coordinate. A massage chair allows older adults to enjoy the benefits of a massage anytime they want from the comfort of home.

But how do you find the right chair? We’re going to share the best therapeutic chairs for elderly users and uncover the benefits of having a massage chair at home.

Health Benefits of Massage Chairs for Seniors

Massage is a natural, simple and drug-free way to help reduce pain, alleviate tension, improve circulation and more. A massage chair is an investment in your wellness and can help improve your quality of life.

Let’s look at some of the many health benefits of massage chairs for seniors.

Better Circulation

Massage can help improve circulation, which is crucial for overall health and well-being. Proper circulation ensures that blood and oxygen reach every organ for optimal functioning.

Good circulation keeps your heart healthy, speeds up healing and keeps your brain sharp. But as we age, it becomes more challenging to maintain proper blood flow. Having a massage chair at home means that seniors can reap the circulation-improving benefits of a massage anytime they wish.

Less Pain

One great benefit of massage is that it can help with pain. Many older adults suffer from pain, particularly arthritic pain. While massage won’t cure this pain, it can certainly help reduce it. Increased blood flow to affected areas can help reduce the inflammation and burning that lead to discomfort and pain.

A back massager for elderly users can also help with lower back pain.

Seniors who suffer from osteoarthritis will find that regular sessions in a massage chair can help reduce stiffness and pain. In addition, some experience improved mobility over time.

Less Stress

Many older adults suffer from stress. Over time, chronic stress can lead to depression, anxiety, chronic illness, gastrointestinal issues, muscle tension, migraines, high blood pressure and more.

Massage chairs help ease muscle tension and help the body relax to alleviate stress. At the same time, it also helps the body release endorphins, neurotransmitters and hormones that uplift your mood and make you feel good.

Improved Sleep

Up to half of older adults have difficulty getting to sleep and staying asleep. Poor quality sleep can lead to weight gain, depression, a higher risk of diabetes and other chronic health issues.

A therapeutic massage can help you get into a deep state of relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.

4 Best Massage Chairs for Seniors

Massage chairs offer many benefits for seniors, but which one should you buy? If you’re looking for the best massager for elderly users, these four models are great options.

1. WholeBody® 7.1

The WholeBody 7.1 offers a relaxing, therapeutic massage thanks to FlexGlide and 3D orbital massage technology. Using warm air technology, the WholeBody 7.1 mimics the feel of a warm oil massage to melt away tension and stress. Plus, the BodyMap PRO feature allows you to target specific areas to get relief where you need it most.

Other additional features include:

• Five massage programs, including sleep and relax
• Retractable ottoman with calf and foot massager

Why It’s Great for Older Adults

The FlexGlide feature allows you to adjust the massage intensity for the shoulders and back, which is ideal for older adults who may need a gentler massage. The WholeBody 7.1 also allows you to adjust the leg rest and back independently for maximum comfort.

The calf and foot massager use CirQlation Figure-Eight technology to massage your calves in a gentle upward motion to improve blood flow toward the heart.

With a compact, swiveling design, the WholeBody 7.1 is an excellent option for older adults and can easily fit into any home.

Click here to learn more about the WholeBody 7.1.

2. Gravis ZG Chair

The Gravis ZG Chair offers a gentle massage for a truly relaxing experience. Air massage technology, multi-zone heating and zero gravity seating work together to alleviate muscle tension, improve blood flow and help reduce back pain.

Every part of the Gravis is adjustable (even the headrest), allowing for the perfect fit for your body. Control the position using the included remote, or download the app and make adjustments using your phone.

Why It’s Great for Older Adults

The Gravis is great for older adults because it delivers a gentler massage compared to other massage chairs. In addition, adjustability allows for the utmost of comfort, and multi-zone heating delivers a soothing experience.

When you’re not using the Gravis for a massage or to enjoy the zero gravity position, it blends in easily with any home decor.

Click here to learn more about the Gravis ZG Chair.

ZeroG® 5.0

The ZeroG 5.0 delivers a full-body massage to ease tired, aching muscles and stress. Kick back and relax in the zero gravity position with the One-Step Go To Zero function.

Featuring 3D FlexGlide technology, this chair delivers a realistic massage. Extra-wide seating offers additional comfort, and the BodyMap PRO function allows you to focus on key areas that are causing discomfort. The ZeroG 5.0 also comes equipped with a full calf and foot massager for a true full-body experience.

Why It’s Great for Older Adults

The ZeroG 5.0 delivers a relaxing massage and allows you to easily slip into the zero gravity position with the touch of a button. Extra-wide seating gives you a little more room for a more comfortable experience. Plus, the BodyMap PRO feature allows you to really target areas that need your attention.

With the added calf and foot massager, this chair is excellent for older adults who may have issues with swelling in the ankles and feet.

 Click here to learn more about the ZeroG 5.0 chair.

4. Reflex SOL Foot and Calf Massager

If you have limited space or just don’t want to invest in a full massage chair, you can still enjoy a therapeutic calf and foot massage with the Reflex SOL. This is the best leg massager for elderly users. It’s easy to use, doesn’t take up a lot of space and helps you relax tired, aching feet.

The Reflex SOL uses CirQlation and Figure-Eight technology to mimic the movements of a professional massage therapist. The unit massages in an upward fashion to help improve blood flow back to the core.

Warm Air technology alleviates tension and stress, and the underfoot vibration soothe tired feet.

Why It’s Great for Older Adults

The Reflex SOL is great for older adults who have issues with circulation in the legs. The upward massage motion helps push blood flow back towards the heart to improve overall circulation in the legs.

The gentle heat and underfoot vibrations also help ease tension and soothe aching feet and calves.

Click here to learn more about the Reflex SOL.

Choosing the Perfect Massage Chair for a Senior

Now that you understand the benefits of massage chairs and know some of the top chairs for seniors, you may be wondering: How do I choose one?

Finding the right relaxing chair for old person doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some points to consider.

Massage Intensity

When choosing a massage chair for an older adult, one of the first things to consider is the massage intensity. Some chairs deliver a more rigorous massage than others. Those with more sensitive muscles and joints may prefer chairs that offer a gentler experience.

On the other hand, some older adults prefer a more intense massage to help with pain and severe muscle tension.

Choose a suitable intensity level to match the senior’s comfort level and preference.

Chair Size

The size of the chair is another important consideration. Consider where the chair will be placed and the size of the space. Massage chairs come in a wide range of sizes, including compact models that are ideal for smaller rooms.

Built-in Programs

Many massage chairs have built-in programs, like Sleep or Relax. These programs offer targeted benefits and make it easier for older adults to enjoy the experience they want. While automatic programs aren’t necessary, they may be preferred by seniors who want a simple, one-touch massage experience.

Leg and Calf Massager

For seniors with circulation issues and swelling in the feet and legs, a chair with a leg and calf massager may be a great investment. These chairs offer a full-body massage experience while bringing some much-needed relief from pain and swelling.

Zero Gravity

When choosing a massage chair for a senior, another important thing to consider is whether the chair can move into the zero gravity position.

Zero gravity can be beneficial for older adults. The position minimizes the impact of gravity on the body and helps decompress the spine. In addition, seniors who have issues with herniated discs or back pain may find that zero gravity brings some relief.

Heat

Many massage chairs also have lumbar heating to help ease muscle tension and stress. For older adults with stiff and aching muscles and joints, heat can bring relief from discomfort and pain.

When choosing a massage chair for an older adult, these are some of the most important features to consider. Of course, your budget will also be a consideration. However, it’s important to remember that a massage chair is an investment in your health and wellness. For older adults dealing with pain, tension and stress, it’s worth the cost of choosing a quality chair that offers all of the features they desire.

Dangers of Using Massage Chairs for Seniors

It’s easy to assume that massage chairs are safe for all seniors. While most can benefit from having their own massage chair, there are some older adults who should avoid them or only choose chairs with gentle settings.

• Seniors with muscle sprains, bruises and fractures should avoid using massage chairs. The massage rollers and vibrations can cause pain, additional bruising and inflammation.
• Older adults with osteoarthritis should be cautious when using massage chairs. High intensity settings may damage the spine.
• Seniors with a history of blood clots should talk to their doctors before using massage chairs.
• Those who are on blood thinners should stick to gentle massage settings. Intense massages can cause bleeding and bruising.

Can Insurance Cover a Massage Chair?

If massage chairs offer therapeutic benefits, can they be covered by insurance? Many older adults ask this question. Most are purchasing a massage chair to help alleviate pain or to support treatment for a medical condition. Can insurance help cover the cost of this investment?

Unfortunately, insurance companies typically do not cover the cost of a massage chair. Massage chairs do not have a DME or insurance medical code, so they aren’t covered by most policies.

That being said, it doesn’t hurt to contact your insurance company for clarification. Every policy and insurance company is different. While it’s not common for massage chairs to be covered, your policy may be the exception.

Final Thoughts

A massage chair can be a great investment for older adults. Along with relaxation and stress relief, the right chair may also help with pain, circulation and sleep quality. Review the chairs listed above to find one that’s ideal for the older adult in your life.

Finding the right massage chair can feel like an overwhelming task. There are so many chairs and features to consider. Where do you even begin? In this massage chair buying guide, we’ll walk you through the most important features to look for and the types of massage chairs to find the right one for you.

Massage Chair Features to Look For

Choosing the right massage chair doesn’t have to be complicated. A great place to start is with the chair’s features. When comparing your options, here are some essential elements to consider.

Price

Massage chairs are an investment, and the return on that investment often outweighs the cost. Still, it’s important to go into this process with an appropriate budget. A quality massage chair will cost $1,200+. The price tag will depend on the features, materials and technology.

If you want to purchase a chair that will give you many years of use and provide the experience you want, you may want to steer clear of chairs that are $1,000 or less (unless they’re on sale, of course).

Price is an important consideration, but it shouldn’t be the only one. Quality and experience are just as important, if not more important, than the chair’s price tag.

Functionality

Today’s massage chairs are more advanced than ever. From built-in speakers to automatic massage programs and zero gravity, massage chairs can have a laundry list of features.

Determine which features are most important to you and will have the most significant impact on your health and well-being.

Our Super Novo chair, for example, offers S- and L-track massage as well as a foot, calf and knee massage. In addition, 3D and 4D massage programs make it easy to get the experience you want, and the built-in Altec Lansing sound system allows you to listen to calming music or audiobooks during your sessions.

Take the time to consider the features commonly offered by massage chairs and decide which ones are must-haves, nice-to-haves, and not necessary. Knowing which features you really want can help narrow down your choices and make it easier to find the chair you really want.

Size

Although you can find compact options, massage chairs are still bigger than your average chair. It’s important to consider how much space you have and where you’ll place your chair.

Measure your space and look for chairs that will accommodate your needs.

While massage chairs are on the bigger side, you can still find options for smaller spaces. For example, our Certus chair has a space-saving design that allows it to be placed directly against a wall. No clearance is required to recline or sit upright, which makes it a great fit for homes with limited space.

Our Certus chair still has all of the great features you expect from a Human Touch massage chair – auto wellness programs, S- and L-track massage, zero gravity position, calf massage, etc. – but it comes in a compact package that saves on space.

Massage Intensity

Many people overlook the importance of massage intensity when choosing a chair. In some cases, you can adjust the intensity of the massage, but even then, you may find that the range is either too gentle or too intense.

Take a close look at the product description or reach out to customer support to find out about the massage intensity level.

A gentle or relaxing massage level may be more appropriate for older adults. On the other hand, someone who engages in intense exercise or spends most of the day on their feet may prefer a chair with a more intense massage level to work out the kinks and tension.

Upholstery

Although it serves a special purpose, a massage chair is still a piece of furniture. When it’s not in use, you want it to blend in with the décor in your home. You also want the chair to be comfortable to sit in.

To ensure that you’re getting a chair you love aesthetically and comfort-wise, consider the upholstery options. Consider more than just the color and look at your options for materials and comfort.

Warranty

Any massage chair worth buying will be backed by a warranty. When considering any massage chair, check to make sure that it includes a warranty. Warranties protect against defects in workmanship and materials, covering the cost of repair or replacement.

We offer 3- and 5-year warranty options on our chairs to give you peace of mind that your purchase is protected.

Different Types of Massage Chairs

Now that you know which features to look for, let’s explore the different types of massage chairs available. There’s a wide range of massage technologies available, as well as massage techniques and additional features that you may want.

Rollers & Tracks

The rollers and tracks are what deliver the massage. The rollers move along the track to massage strategic parts of the body, alleviating tension and stress along the way. Again, you have many options here.

2D Rollers

Massage chairs with 2D rollers offer a gentler, more relaxing massage. They work the surface of the muscle and don’t really get too deep.

2D rollers move up and down, and left and right.

3D Rollers

A massage chair with 3D rollers offers everything 2D rollers offer, but they also have the ability to protrude outward for a deeper massage.

Because they can protrude further, 3D rollers can reach areas that are often neglected by 2D rollers, like the shoulders and upper neck.

3D rollers can move up and down, left and right, and in and out.

4D Rollers

4D rollers offer the most intense and realistic massage experience. They offer all of the same movements that you get with a 3D roller (up and down, left and right, and in and out), but you can also adjust the speed during each stroke.

The additional speed adjustment helps mimic the movement of a massage therapist’s hands.

S-Track

A massage chair with an S-track will follow the curve of your spine, from your neck down to your lower back. The S-track is the most basic of options for massage chairs.

L-Track

The L-track works similarly to the S-track, but it extends further down the body. L-track massage chairs massage your upper neck all the way down to your hamstrings.

Many advanced massage chairs have both S- and L-track massage to give you a near full-body massage experience.

Massage Techniques

Along with rollers and tracks, massage chairs can also offer different massage techniques.

Swedish

A Swedish massage uses longer strokes to warm muscles, relax tension and help break up knots in the muscles.

Deep Tissue

A deep tissue massage is more intense than a Swedish massage. Just as the name suggests, this is a deep massage that can bring some relief to areas that are constantly tense and contracted, like the neck, shoulders and upper back.

Shiatsu

A Shiatsu massage uses a combination of pressure, stretching and rotation to ease tension, pain and stress. It’s similar to acupressure in many ways, and can help ensure that qi (your life energy) moves freely through the body.

Foot and Calf Massages

Many massage chairs also have built-in foot and calf massagers. These use a combination of reflexology, underfoot rollers and acupressure to help relax the muscles in your calves and feet.

If you’re on your feet all day or often experience swelling in your feet and ankles, consider a massage chair with this feature.

Heated

Some massage chairs have heated functions that further help alleviate tension and stress. Many of our chairs have heated lumbar systems and heated foot massage options.

Stretching

Stretching massages are great for alleviating tough knots. Massage chairs achieve this type of massage using airbag systems that help pull muscles to eliminate tension.

Reflexology

Chairs that have foot massagers typically use reflexology to help relax the feet and melt away tension. Reflexology applies pressure to specific areas of the foot that help release endorphins, which are natural pain relievers.

Other Massage Therapy Features

Massage chairs may also offer other features that you should consider when comparing your options. These include:

Zero Gravity Seating

Many massage chairs can move into the zero gravity position, which helps decompress the spine and alleviate pain. In this position, your legs are elevated above your heart to help improve circulation and provide a wealth of other benefits.

Bluetooth & Built-in Speakers

Massage chairs with Bluetooth connectivity and built-in speakers create an immersive, relaxing experience. Listen to the sounds of nature, calming music or even your favorite audio book as you enjoy your massage.

While this isn’t a necessary feature, it’s a nice one to have if you want to ease stress and anxiety.

How Much is a Massage Chair?

Massage chairs come in a wide range of prices. A quality chair can range anywhere from $1,100-$10,000 or more.

The cost of a massage chair will depend on several factors, including:

• The number of features
• The technologies used
• The materials and upholstery

Chairs that have the most advanced technology, extra features and use high-quality materials will come with a higher price tag.

Final Thoughts

So, which massage chair should I buy? Consider all of the factors above to find a massage chair that will meet your needs and budget. Choose a chair that has all of the right features to address your concerns (pain, stress, tension, etc.) while meeting all of your expectations for quality and comfort.

If you suffer from back pain or aching, sore muscles, you may be considering a zero gravity chair. Zero gravity (ZG) chairs are scientifically designed to take pressure off the spine, and they can help speed up the healing process if you’re recovering from an injury or challenging workout.

But if you’ve never had the chance to sit in one of these recliners, you may be wondering, “what are zero gravity seats?” and “how do zero gravity chairs work?”

What is Zero Gravity Seating?

When you first hear the term “zero gravity,” a few questions may come to mind:

• What does zero gravity chair mean?
• What is the purpose of a zero gravity chair?

Zero gravity seating puts your body into a position where your legs are elevated above your heart and your knees are slightly bent. When your body is in this position, your weight is evenly distributed, which helps alleviate pressure.

Just as its name suggests, this position minimizes the gravitational forces on the body. And not surprisingly, this type of seating was designed for astronauts to help alleviate the immense pressure put on the body during a space launch.

Zero Gravity vs. Anti Gravity Chair

In your quest to learn more about ZG seating, you may have also heard of “anti gravity” chairs. What’s the difference between the two? Nothing. Both terms are used interchangeably and describe the same thing.

How Zero Gravity Chairs Work

You understand what they are, but how do ZG recliners work? Let’s use our Perfect Chairs line as an example.

When your first sit down in a Perfect Chair, you start in an upright position. With the touch of a button, you can move into the zero gravity position, which:

• Elevates your legs above your heart
• Allows your knees to bend and rest in a comfortable position

When you’re in this position, it takes the pressure off of your spine and allows you to truly relax. In addition, because your legs are elevated, your heart doesn’t have to work as hard to pump blood and oxygen throughout your body.

Our Perfect Chair recliners take this experience to the next level by offering extra features, like:

• 3D EasePoint™ Technology for even weight distribution and enhanced comfort (available with our Supreme upholstery package).
• Far-infrared jade stone heat system to ease tension and stress when you’re in zero gravity (available with our Supreme upholstery package).
• Lumbar support to help alleviate back pain and promote good posture (available with our Supreme and Performance upholstery packages).
• Memory foam PLUS for extra comfort and support (available with our Supreme and Performance upholstery packages).

Now that you understand what ZG chairs are and how they work, let’s explore some of the benefits of this position.

How Zero Gravity Chairs Impact Your Health

Do ZG chairs really work? If so, why should you sit in this position? How does it benefit your body?

These chairs can impact your health in many ways. Here’s how.

Better Circulation

Zero gravity seats can help improve circulation. How? When your legs are elevated above your heart, your veins don’t have to work as hard to pump blood back to your heart.

Improved circulation not only gives your veins a rest, but it also helps get more oxygen and nutrients to your organs and muscles to speed up healing. If you’re recovering from an injury, this position can help support your recovery.

Better blood flow can also help reduce varicose veins and swelling in the legs.

Less Back Pain

One of the greatest benefits of this position is that it helps with lower back pain. Zero gravity helps decompress the spine and reduces muscle tension. There’s less pressure on your intervertebral discs, which helps alleviate pain.

Because your weight is evenly distributed, it helps ease tension and pain in the back and upper back as well. 

Deeper Relaxation

It’s easier for your body to fall into a deep state of relaxation when you’re in the zero gravity position. Along with easing muscle tension and taking pressure off your spine, sitting in this position also makes it easier for your lungs to expand into a fuller position. Because more oxygen can reach your lungs, you can take deeper and more relaxed breaths.

Final Thoughts

Zero gravity chairs and recliners help you relax and decompress the spine for pain and tension relief. They achieve this by placing your body into a neutral position that minimizes the impact of gravity. So, the next time you’re suffering with back pain and muscle tension, take a seat in the ZG position to get some much-needed relief.

This month was a great but a bit of a nightmare. I’m finally healthy after being out 18 months due to a hand and wrist injury. Being healthy means I’m back competing, and back to competing means I’m not home much. I was only at my house 1/3 of the month so my access to my Super Novo massage chair was limited. Even with limited access I still had to find ways to recover so I could preform and feel at my best. As you all know we tend to let ourselves go when we travel and don’t stick to a routine when we aren’t in our own space. I decided to look into the things that I many not have paid attention to before and habits that I have on the road that were causing me problems. 

Common Physical Recovery Issues While Travelling

The first thing I noticed was the bed, your bed at home allows you to get a great nights sleep. When you are sleeping in a hotel for a few nights your sleep may suffer because of the quality of the bed. The bed may be too firm or too soft, the height of the bed off the floor may be different, the comforter may not have the thickness you like or too thick and lastly the pillows just don’t allow you to get comfortable. I’ve learned to stay in certain hotel brands because of the consistency of the bed compared to my personal bed, this was one of the biggest helps. I also carry a small pillow which serves as a help in two ways. It first helps me on the plane keep my head level and stable so my body isn’t thrown of from sitting at an angle for hours on a plane. Secondly it gives me that consistency at night which allows me to fall asleep fast and sleep more efficiently.

The next thing I noticed that is important is to stretch for 20 minutes when I wake up and before I go to bed on the road. When I’m at home I allow the Super Novo to prep my body for the day and I also use it for decompression in the evenings. Stretching will never give you what the chair can do for you but it similar to placing a bandage on the situation, you just need something to hold you over. I normally do 10 different stretch positions for 2 minutes each in a total body series. If you have problem areas you definitely want to focus on those areas more to provide relief. If you want to step it up a little you can incorporate a roller into your series which will give you a little more pressure. 

The last thing was hydration. Notice I didn’t say diet or anything referring to solid food intake. I purposely stayed away from that because your eating habits are what they are and traditionally don’t change on the road much but you hydration does change. For me I noticed I was only drinking 1/4 of the water on the road that I would drink at home. With my muscles not being hydrated properly, how could I ever expect them to perform at the level I desired? I also paid more attention to the type of water I was drinking while on the road. Making sure I take a trip to the local grocery store to get the brands that I normally drink when I’m home. Consistency is always the key, too many variables can throw you way off and mess up your rhythm. So now I have a much better system to ensure that I hydrate so that my body in the best possible condition to perform.

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, you know how difficult it can be to get through the morning or day. Pain medication can help, but you may be looking for a more natural way to manage the pain and discomfort. There are many natural solutions, but massage is a popular choice. Does massage help with plantar fasciitis?

We're going to explore how massage can help with this condition and share some tips for effective at-home massages.

What is Plantar Fasciitis? How Does it Cause Foot Pain?

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain. It’s caused by inflammation of the band of tissue (known as the fascia) that runs from the heel to the toes.

The fascia does a few things. It absorbs shock when you’re walking, and it also supports the arch of your foot. Over time, stress and tension on this band of tissue can cause small tears. Stretching and tearing eventually lead to inflammation and irritation.

Signs and Symptoms

A telltale sign of this condition is a stabbing pain when you take your first steps in the morning. Once you get up and start moving around, the pain subsides, but it may return after standing for long periods of time.

Doctors are still unsure of what causes plantar fasciitis. However, it is more common among runners and those who are overweight.

Is Massage Good for Plantar Fasciitis?

Treating plantar fasciitis can be difficult, but massage therapy can help. In fact, massage has been shown to help break down scar tissue, improve lymphatic circulation and increase blood flow.

In 85% of trials that used massage therapy to treat plantar fasciitis, pain was reduced and mobility was improved. Another case study found that getting a massage twice a week significantly decreased pain and improved mobility in those with plantar fasciitis. Massage was so effective that even physically taxing activities caused very little or no pain.

The Benefits of a Plantar Fasciitis Massage

There are many benefits to plantar fasciitis massages:

• Helps Ease Tension: A deep massage can help ease tension and promote relaxation.
• Can Help Improve Blood Flow: Regular massages can help improve circulation in the feet. The squeezing, twisting and pulling action eliminates lactic acid and increases lymph fluid circulation.
• Helps Ease Stress: Massages can help lower cortisol levels, allowing your body to relax and start healing.

Many people find that plantar fasciitis massage treatment is all they need to find relief.

Risks and Precautions

The great thing about massage therapy is that there are very few risks and precautions. Here are a few things to consider:

• Avoid deep tissue massages if you have open wounds on your feet, osteoporosis or known blood clots.
• Avoid cross fiber massages if you have inflamed tissue, hematomas, vascular issues or trauma in the area.
• Avoid hot stone massages if you have open wounds, recently had surgery or have an acute injury.

In general, it’s best to err on the side of caution and perform gentle massages.

How To Do A Plantar Fasciitis Relief Massage At Home

You don’t have to spend a fortune on professional massage therapy to get relief from plantar fasciitis. We’re going to share some tips and techniques for foot pain massages that anyone can do at home.

Push Massage

A push massage is a simple technique that you can use to alleviate tension in your feet.

• Find a comfortable place to sit down.
• Cross one leg over the other.
• Gently use your thumbs to push along the sole of your foot. Push forward from your heel to your toes, and then move back down again.
• Repeat this movement for about 2-5 minutes.
• Repeat on the other foot.

If you want a more intense massage, apply more pressure with your thumbs. Don’t overdo it, especially if the tissue is inflamed.

Pull Massage

A pull massage is similar to a push massage, but you’re moving outward instead of up and down.

• Sit down on the edge of the bed or on a chair.
• Cross one leg over the other.
• Place both thumbs at the center of your foot.
• Pull one thumb towards the left side of your foot and at the same time, use your other thumb to pull towards the right side of your foot.
• Repeat for 2-5 minutes, moving along the entire surface of the foot.

Start out with gentle pressure and increase the intensity gradually if you need greater relief.

Ball Massager

Use a ball massager, dryer ball or a tennis ball for this technique. It’s a simple practice, but it’s surprisingly effective.

• Sit down on a chair or the edge of a bed.
• Place a ball under the arch of your foot.
• Use your bodyweight to put some pressure on the ball.
• Slowly, roll the ball down and up the foot, and then side to side.
• Continue rolling for as long as you like, and repeat on the other foot.

Start with gentle pressure and increase the intensity gradually. Stop if the massage becomes painful.

Human Touch Massage Chairs

At-home massages are simple enough, but what if you want a hands-off, immersive experience? A Human Touch massage chair will deliver a professional-level massage right from the comfort of home. Here are some of our top options for foot massages.

Certus Massage Chair

The Certus massage chair delivers a full-body massage – and that includes the calves and feet. For plantar fasciitis pain and discomfort, the Certus uses:

• Outer orbital massage to target tension in the calves and feet
• Underfoot rollers for reflexology
• Heating to soothe pain

To optimize your massage, the footrest automatically adjusts to your height.

Of course, the Certus massages more than just your calves and feet.

• S- and L-track massage extends your massage from your shoulders to the back of the thighs.
• Lumbar heat to help ease tension
• Zero Gravity seating to take the pressure off your spine
• 11 built-in wellness programs for quick and easy relief

Get the Certus Massage Chair at Human Touch.

Super Novo Massage Chair

The Super Novo massage chair delivers a 3D massage and a truly immersive experience. The extended calf and foot massager can help bring relief from plantar fasciitis through:

• Foot rollers with adjustable intensity
• Heat to melt away tension
• Automatic height adjustment to target the right areas

While you’re enjoying your foot massage, you’ll also experience:

• S- and L-track massage that extends from the shoulders to the thighs
• 3D and 4D massage programs (38 in total)
• Built-in premium sound system

The Super Novo will put your entire body in a truly relaxed state.

Get the Super Novo Massage Chair at Human Touch.

Reflex5s Foot and Calf Massager

The Reflex5s is an excellent foot massager for plantar fasciitis and is designed to mimic the motions of a professional massage. As an added benefit, it also targets the calves and feet to alleviate tension and pain.

CirQlation® and Figure-Eight technology massages the calves in an upward, rolling motion to help improve circulation. We use 3D robotic technology to deliver a massage experience that’s as close to a massage therapist as you can get.

Our Reflex5s also incorporates reflexology into the mix to help alleviate stress and further help with plantar fasciitis pain.

If you’re looking for a massager that only targets the calves and feet, the Reflex5s is an excellent choice.

Get the Reflex5s at Human Touch.

Final Thoughts

Plantar fasciitis can be painful, but massage can help. Use the tips above and consider investing in a quality massage chair to not only help with pain but to support your overall wellness.

Are you tired of looking at most ergonomic chairs and not finding one that truly conforms to your body? We're going to list four of our leading chairs by category to help you find the best ergonomic chair for you.

Best Ergonomic Chair Reviews

Ergonomic Computer Chairs - Perfect Chair^® with Laptop Desk Accessory

The Perfect Chair PC-610 with Supreme Upholstery Package offers a high-end office chair with an optional laptop desk accessory which has a variety of features to make every day in the office relaxing, fun, and pain-free.

A few of the chair's many features include:

Features

• Memory foam PLUS to conform to your body
• Powered lumbar system adjustments
• Articulating headrest
• Extended armrest
• Solid wooden base
• Zero-gravity comfort
• Far-infrared jade stone heating
• Laptop desk accessory

If you want the best ergonomic chair for office use, it's difficult to beat the versatility and comfort that the PC-610 offers.

Get the Perfect Chair PC-610, ergonomic recliner chair.

Ergonomic Relaxing Chairs – Gravis ZG Chair

The Gravis ZG Chair is the best ergonomic desk chair to help you relax while still getting your To Do list checked off. And with the downloadable app, the chair will even "nudge" you to let you know that you've been sitting in the same position for too long.

Isn't that neat? Plus, it's filled with advanced features to maximize comfort.

Features

• 100% adjustable seating
• Adjust your back, head and feet
• Recline and incline with the tap of a bottom
• Enjoy targeted heat zones
• Targeted massage areas
• Downloadable app for advanced features

The Gravis ZG Chair puts true computer chair comfort in your grasp. So sit back, answer calls, send emails or go on Zoom calls from the comfort of this amazing chair.

Get the Gravis ZG Chair today.

Ergonomic Home Office Chairs – Super Novo

The Super Novo is the best ergonomic home office chair for when you're not at your desk. It's the most advanced and luxurious massage chair we have here at Human Touch, and a home office is a fitting place for it.

Built with the latest massage chair technology, the Super Novo can help ease tension and stress with a full-body massage. Use it during your lunch break or in between meetings to boost circulation and help you relax.

Features

• S- and L-track massage to target the shoulders down to the back of the thighs
• Built-in calf and foot massager
• Altec Lansing sound system
• 3D and 4D massage programs

The Super Novo also has Alexa-enabled Virtual Therapist™ technology to create a customized massage experience.

Get the Super Novo massage chair at Human Touch.

Budget Ergonomic Chair – WholeBody^® 7.1

The WholeBody 7.1 is a low-cost ergonomic chair that doesn't skimp on quality. It's the perfect companion for your laptop or those times when you're away from the desk. Five built-in massage programs help melt away stress, while the BodyMap PRO feature allows you to create a customized massage.

Features

• Retractable ottoman with calf and foot massager
• 5 massage programs
• 3D FlexGlide massage
• BodyMap PRO for a customized massage experience
• Warm-air technology

The compact footprint of this chair makes it an excellent option for an ergonomic high-back office chair. If you work at a desk, you can slip this chair into the corner of the room and enjoy a relaxing massage during your break.

Get the WholeBody 7.1 at Human Touch

If you're looking for the best ergonomic chair for your home office, give one of these models a try. Whether paired with a laptop or for those in-between moments, our massage chairs will help you get more done with less stress.

Do you pamper yourself? You should. But do you really want to drive 20- or 30-minutes home from a spa or massage parlor? We don't know about you, but traffic is a quick way to make people feel stressed. Instead, why not take a few pointers from our home spa ideas to make your own oasis to enjoy in your home?

We're going to explain how to make a spa at home that you love.

Of course, everyone has a budget and needs to go slow with adding to their in-home spa.

Let's dive into decorating your room first before discussing a few must-have (in our opinion) items for your luxury home spa.

5 Home Spa Ideas and Steps to Create Your Own Home Oasis

1. Decorate Your Space

Want to know the first step in how to make your own spa at home? Start with the walls and floor first. While you're not expected to revamp your entire room, it's worth considering the following:

• Adding organic elements, such as natural woods or rocks
• Mixing in natural textures
• Bringing live plants into the space

Ideally, you'll bring many natural elements into your space. You can take this a step further by hanging nature photos on the wall, turning on nature screensavers on your monitor or television and even opening up a window if you live in a quiet, serene space.

2. Work on Lighting

If your space is too bright, it will impact your ability to relax. Ideally, you'll want to install soft lighting and even a dimming switch to gain more control over the lighting in your space. You want to stay away from bright lights or fluorescent lighting, which tend to be on the harsher side.

Another popular option is to:

• Light candles
• Put on the fireplace

However, if a massage or spa session puts you to sleep, be sure to position your candles on a secure base to avoid a potential fire hazard. Better yet, use LED candles. They look just like the real thing, but without the risk of fire.

3. Add in Relaxing Sounds

Sounds evoke emotions. If you listen to waterfalls, nature sounds or even white noise, it may help you relax and get into a state of bliss. In fact, many spas have water fountains because the sound of rushing water causes a person to relax and de-stress.

You want to create a playlist or choose music that does a few things:

• Doesn't cause you to think
• Relaxes you

Many people put on classical music or instrumental music because it ticks all of these boxes off. Another option is to simply listen to nature sounds without music to create a serene environment without distractions.

4. Don't Forget About Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is one of the easiest ways to make your space relaxing and inviting. Scent connects deeply with your emotions and memory. When you use aromatherapy in your spa, it will:

• Relieve stress
• Balance blood pressure
• Relax you

And if you choose the right aromas, they may even promote antiseptic and anti-inflammatory responses in the body.

You can purchase a diffuser for your aromatherapy or opt for sprays and other options. If you want to explore a few aromas, start with:

• Peppermint
• Lemon
• Frankincense
• Ylang-ylang

Experiment with different scents to find the ones that help you relax.

5. Kick Back in a Luxury Massage Chair

Are you ready to complete your space? If so, a luxury massage chair is in order. You'll love the following chairs. But if you can't fit a full chair into your budget, we have something special for you below.

What chairs do we recommend?

Super Novo

Super Novo is pure luxury and comes equipped with some of the best technology in the massage chair world. A few of the features that we're confident you'll love are:

• 3D and 4D massages
• Fingertip controls build into the chair
• 38 wellness programs
• Cloud Touch acupressure
• Dual lumbar heat
• Unibody track
• Zero gravity function
• Much more

If you want to know how to have a spa day at home with a single product, the Super Novo is it.

Click here to learn more about the Super Novo.

Certus Massage Chair

Certus is another excellent option for a vigorous, in-home massage that will leave you stress- and ache-free. Reliable and durable, this chair offers:

• 11 auto-wellness programs
• Dual lumbar heat
• Heated feet
• Foot and calf massager
• Zero gravity option
• Premium sound system
• So much more

The Certus is one of the best chairs in our lineup, and you'll be shocked by just how little room this chair demands to recline fully.

Click here to learn more about the Certus massage chair.

Gravis ZG Chair

Gravis is smaller than our other models, and it's a more affordable option for anyone on a tight budget. We love this chair because it offers a gentle massage and key features, such as:

• Multiple heat zones
• Targeted massage
• Air massage technology
• Robust, adjustability options
• Much more

You'll also love this chair's innovative app!

Click here to learn more about the Gravis ZG Chair.

Wait! Why Not a Reflex Foot and Calf Massager Instead?

Want to know how to make a spa room at home on a budget? The Reflex SOL is a calf and foot massager that fits in nearly every spa budget. This foot and calf massager offers state-of-the-art features, including:

• Adjustable tilt option
• Intensity settings
• Under-foot massage rollers
• Warm air technology
• Much more

If you have a smaller space or just don't have the budget for a full chair, these foot and calf massagers are a great choice.

Click here to learn more about the Reflex SOL.

Of course, you can add in your own home spa ideas, such as adding in a fountain or some of the best at-home spa products that appeal to you the most.

Finally, now that you know how to make your home like a spa, there's one thing left to do: have a spa night at home. Grab your drink of choice, put on something comfortable and make your way into your own oasis.

Hello, my name is Maurice Allen and I am a professional long drive competitor as well as a professional golfer. I have teamed up with Human Touch over the next 12 months to document my recovery methods in hopes that it will give you some ideas that you can use to help you gain a greater quality of life. 

How to Use Massage Chairs for Recovery in the Right Way

In this first month I started with baseline, it’s important to know where you are to start and also to help you see improvements of any kind which will give you the motivation to continue the process. The assessment and documentation is a lot of work to be honest with you but I feel that it is a necessity and one of the first steps to truly get better. In my baseline assessment I would take 5-7 minutes every morning when I first wake up and again right before I got to bed to see how my body is responding to movement.

The key parts I check are the following:

• Feet
• Knees
• Hips
• Lower back
• Shoulders
• Neck

These are the major places that are the site of discomfort for most individuals.

The assessment is a simple series of movements that help me look at range of motion and strength. You are looking to see what feels tight, is there any sharp pain, is muscle atrophy present, inability to move, and is the movement smooth and fluid. The purpose in doing it twice a day is to see how well my body recovers as I sleep. 

From my assessment I’ve learned that I need to work on:

• Ankle mobility
• Knee stability with strengthening the supporting muscles
• Loosen up my hips
• Shoulder range of motion
• Strengthening the muscles in my neck

Do I Need a Massage for Muscle Recovery?

I know that many of you reading this will say “I’m not a professional athlete so how does this relate to me?”

Recovery and wellness is something important for everyone because you can’t perform at top level without it. If you are consistently in pain or discomfort you can’t be the best parent you want to be, the best spouse you want to be or be the best worker you want be. This is a long ongoing process but it hopefully gives you all some great information that you will be able to use as well.

Each month I will tackle one issue at a time in detail using a series of methods, I will also use my Super Novo massage chair as one of my daily maintenance tools to help me recover better and enjoy life more. We'll also explore how massage helps with muscle recovery and overall recovery in general.

Thank you for following my journey, and starting your own as well!