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.

We work hard to improve the lives of ourselves and our loved ones, so it’s important to consider the rewards of any investment we make, whether it be of our time, our money, or our energy.

As many people look into purchasing a massage chair, they ask themselves whether the purchase is worth the price. Should I buy a massage chair? Do massage chairs really help? The value of a solution is relative to the individual problem it solves, so let’s examine a few different cases.

Massage for Injury Recovery

Whether you’re an athlete or a “Regular Joe,” physical injuries can lessen both your quality of life and the amount of money in your bank account. Missed work and multiple doctor visits come as an unexpected cost, and you’ll find yourself taking your vacation days for errands that are anything but relaxing.

Even with health insurance, missed time from work can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. If your injury requires massage therapy, this also means taking a few hours per week to visit a therapist that is likely to only be available during your standard business hours.

Massage for Stress Relief

Our stress responses are actually a primitive survival tool, commonly known as our “Fight or Flight response.” When we sense any type of potentially harmful situation, our bodies produce a chemical reaction that increases our heart rate and tightens our muscles. We are physically preparing ourselves to respond to a threat to our well-being.

Small doses of stress can allow us to enhance our focus and performance, but long-term stress puts a strain on our bodies that can actually be harmful. Think about tension headaches, body aches, skin rashes, hair loss, and insomnia. Our modern way of life supplies us with plenty of stress, but we aren’t USING that physical response to run, fight, or otherwise exert that energy. Our bodies pump the adrenaline through our systems, and it manifests itself as physical strain.

Aside from the same inconveniences of missed work that we mentioned in the previous example, bear in mind the effects that these ailments have on quality of life. Yes, you’re missing work. But, more importantly, you’re missing life. You’re missing play time with your kids, enjoying your weekend bike rides, and waking up refreshed and energized each day.

Some stressors can be avoided, but others can only be managed after they happen. That’s where meditation, exercise, and massage can make all the difference. Calming your mind will help you to manage stress, and easing the tension in your muscles through exercise and massage can save you from emotional, physical, and mental anguish.

Massage for Health Problems

We’ve discussed massage for injuries, but what about long-term illnesses or health problems that can’t be repaired in a few months? Those suffering from ailments such as Fibromyalgia or chronic anxiety may require medication that has a multitude of adverse side effects.

Stress-related skin problems may require topical medications that heighten sensitivity to the sun, making sunburns even more likely (and dangerous) than they already are. Loss of appetite related to depression can mean nutritional deficiencies with long-reaching and hugely impactful consequences.

Massage can help to stimulate blood flow and relax your muscles, allowing your body to better care for itself. Better blood flow means that you can move more easily, with less stiffness or pain. That means that less pain-management medication is required, which means that your mind can perform without medication-associated brain fog.

Stress-relieving massage means flare-ups of eczema or acne are less frequent, which means less inconvenience and discomfort. The sleep-enhancing effects of massage mean that your body is better rested, more able to repair itself, and better charged to handle the small stresses that can develop into physical ailments. Your appetite improves, which means your body can be given the nutrients that fight illness and general lethargy.

Is a Massage Chair Worth the Money?

When purchasing any kind, you should always consider whether the product/service is worth the price. But you should also consider the long-term effect of your investment.

There are many advantages to buying a massage chair, but there are some drawbacks that should also be considered.

Why Massage Chairs are Worth It

Is a massage chair worth the money? If you ask anyone who owns and uses a massage chair regularly, the answer is probably “yes.” There are many advantages to having your own massage chair.

An Investment in Your Health

A massage chair is an investment in your mental and physical health. Regular massages can help alleviate stress and tension that can take a toll on your quality of life.

Some people find it challenging to motivate themselves to drive to work each day, but we do it because we know that it will allow us to create something worthwhile, engage in personal development, and provide for our families. Words like “investment” can make us feel like we’re in a business meeting, but an investment in our health can mean avoiding a hospital room and enjoying the outdoors instead. And a better, longer, more fulfilling life doesn’t come with a price tag.

More Cost Effective Than Massage Therapy

How much is a massage chair worth, really? Apart from the investment in your health, a massage chair can offer tangible savings over the long-term that make them well worth the cost.

Inconvenience aside, the cost for a 1-hour massage is generally $100-$175, which can cost up to $210 when you include a 20% tip. Let’s be lenient and say that an injury requires you to have weekly massages for two months. Your total cost is then $1,680 for that period of massage therapy. That’s more expensive than the cost to own a WholeBody® 5.1 massage chair, forever.

Is a massage chair worth buying? When you consider the costs of buying a massage, yes.

Available 24/7

When you purchase a massage chair, it’s yours forever, and it’s available whenever you are – 24/7. If you work until late in the evening, you can still come home and enjoy a relaxing massage after a long and stressful day.

When you own a massage chair, there is no need to worry about booking appointments and working your day around the therapist's schedule.

A Consistent Experience

Even if you visit the same massage therapist every session, the experience will be different every time. The massage technique, the amount of pressure applied and even the music and overall ambiance may be different with each appointment. These inconsistencies can also mean that some massages will be less effective or enjoyable than others.

One advantage of owning a massage chair is that the experience will be consistent. You may have different programs to choose from, but each session of the same program should provide the same overall experience.

Private, Contactless Massage Therapy

Some people are uncomfortable with the idea of working with a massage therapist. After all, massages can be a personal thing, and it may not be easy to relax completely when another person is in the room.

Having your own massage chair affords you privacy and a contactless way to enjoy massage therapy.

Different Massage Options

Massage chairs may have a variety of programs that can help you address different issues. For example, you can choose a deep tissue massage to alleviate tension in overworked or injured muscles. The next day, you may use the foot massage function to help soothe your aching feet.

Massage chairs offer the ability to adjust your settings and programs based on what you’re feeling in the moment.

Some Drawbacks to Consider

While there are many advantages to buying a massage chair, they may not be the right choice for everyone.

Higher Upfront Cost

A quality massage chair is an investment. While you will save money over the long term, the upfront cost can be significantly higher compared to sessions with massage therapists.

Why are massage chairs so expensive? Because they use sophisticated mechanical parts and systems to deliver an authentic full body massage. These chairs are built with high-quality materials and engineered to provide a luxurious experience with each session. They also have features like faux leather upholstery and Bluetooth speakers that allow you to relax with an audiobook or listen to calming music during your massage.

While the features and construction of the chair make it worth every penny, the high cost may put a massage chair out of reach for some individuals.

A Different Experience

When considering the question “are massage chairs worth it?” it’s important to remember that the experience will be different from a session with a massage therapist.

Quality massage chairs are designed to mimic the hand movements of a masseuse. However, while the experience comes close, it can’t completely replicate the true feeling of a massage therapist’s hands.

So, when asking the question “are chairs worth the money?” consider whether the experience of an in-person massage is important to you.

Massage Chair Effectiveness

Along with the benefits and drawbacks of a massage chair, it’s important to consider its effectiveness. Do massage chairs work? Are massage chairs good for you? If so, how good are massage chairs, really?

To answer these questions, let’s explore what research has to say about massage chairs and the overall health benefits of massage.

Massage chairs have been shown to help:

• Reduce pain. One study found that massage chairs were just as effective as physiotherapy at reducing pain and improving quality of life in participants. That study also found that a massage chair was more cost effective than physiotherapy.
• Improve blood flow. One study found that regular massages may improve blood flow in localized areas.
• Reduce stress and anxiety. Research has found that just 15 minutes in a massage chair can help reduce stress and anxiety while improving alertness. Participants also had fewer symptoms of depression after five weeks. Reducing stress and anxiety can also help lower your heart rate and help you slip into a state of total relaxation.

Final Thoughts

A massage chair gives you access to massage therapy anytime and from the comfort and privacy of your own home. Massage chairs are worth the cost, all things considered. The convenience and health benefits of regular massages far outweigh the upfront cost of purchasing a chair.

Although mild cases of scoliosis are common and may come with few if any major symptoms, this condition can worsen over time. For some, it can range from disruptive to debilitating. Let’s take a closer look at this condition and learn how back massage for scoliosis can help, which treatment considerations to keep in mind, and how you can experience relief at home with a massage chair for scoliosis. 

Back and lower back pain are typical for those of us sitting in chairs all day at our desks and is exactly the price we pay for walking on two feet. Spine specialists have become more concerned about the growing number of complaints: nearly 65 million Americans report a recent episode of back pain. And you’ve probably already guessed what has caused it.

Since the start of the pandemic and stay at home orders across the globe, human activities and lifestyles have changed a lot. People have been moving significantly less, postponing visits to a doctor, skipping their lower back massage sessions, crawling out of bed and walking the 20 feet to their desk, and taking advantage of Amazon and other instant delivery services instead of taking a short walk to the grocery store.

While Covid doesn’t directly cause back pain, our response to it has contributed to an increase in the cases reported by the general public.

Possible Reasons for Lower Back Pain

There are a number of reasons for lower back pain. What’s more, it’s not always rooted in the musculoskeletal system. Sometimes doctors observe a mirroring effect, when organ diseases manifest through lower spine inflammation.

It can be a consequence of trauma from an accident, diseases of the stomach, intestines, or kidneys or due to muscle spasms, a pinched nerve, and/or inflammation. In this case, seeing an orthopedic doctor or psychiatrist will help identify the root of the problem and proper plan for recovery.

None of the diseases of these organs and skeletal systems mentioned above can compare with the consequences of sedentary work. It’s the top reason for spine and neck pain, numbness in the arms and legs, and circulatory problems.

What’s more, according to medical research from the NIH, a sedentary lifestyle can lead not only to physical problems, but also mental distress. Thus, taking more conscious care of your back health should be a top wellness priority as it seriously affects your mental condition.

How Massage Can Help with Back Pain

Does getting a massage help with lower back pain? Of course it does! Back massage is one of the best ways to cope with and prevent it, which is most often caused by stiffness and muscle spasms. It relaxes tight muscles so that the pain disappears and your posture becomes more upright.

If it is caused solely by sedentary work, working out regularly and massage therapy that targets your lower back pain can be the best ways to alleviate it. When combined, these two self-care routines can drastically reduce painful sensations or eliminate them totally.

A massage after an intense exercise helps you relax tired muscles, improves your blood circulation, and brings many other positive healing effects.

The Benefits of Massage

Massage is a highly beneficial wellness practice—you don't have to wait until your spine asks for help to decide to make it part of your self-care routine. Instead, you may notice the benefits right after your first massage session.

• It helps your body detoxify through sweating.
• Massage stimulates the production of hormones that contribute to improved moods and positive feelings of well-being: endorphins, oxytocin and dopamine are released by touch.
• It also stabilizes your mental state by helping to relieve tension/stress and its effects.
• Massage improves blood circulation and helps your cells receive more oxygen and nutrients.

Massage Therapy Downsides and Precautions

Despite the fact that getting a massage is considered to be a highly beneficial practice, it can have downsides for a specific group of people. Particularly:

• Elderly people whose bones no longer have the same strength.
• Any age group who is suffering from broken bones, wounds, or injuries. In some cases, massage can be done with care during the post-traumatic recovery period. Make sure you tell your therapist about any current or past injuries so they can work around them.
• Patients suffering from inflammation. Massage at the site of inflammation can worsen the situation if not done properly.
• Pregnant and lactating women. Massages during pregnancy can stimulate the body, leading to a potential miscarriage. What’s more, toxins released during the massage process pass into the milk. In such a situation, you can take preventive measures such as using a massage chair for pregnant women and notifying your therapist of your current condition.

How to Perform a Back Pain Relief Massage at Home

Prefer to get a massage from the comfort of your own home? In this case, you must warn your doctor about your intention to do a massage at home so that he can equip you with special instructions and precautions. Below are some tips to make this experience safe and effective.

1. Use a firm couch so your body has more support

Whether you’re giving or receiving a back massage, the couch must be firm and you must have your body aligned just right. Otherwise, there’s a risk of damage to the spine from bending on a soft surface that lacks support.

2. Use an ankle support

For better blood flow to your back, you can place soft cushions under your shins when laying on your stomach. This will provide better support, improve your comfort level and the overall back massage experience. Plus, it's a good way to relieve leg swelling at the same time, which is also a common complaint for those of us who spend most of the day sitting or standing at work.

3. Choose a hypoallergenic oil

Massage oils are great for reducing friction from hands rubbing on your body but can cause allergies or irritation for some people. Before getting started, read the ingredients and make sure that the oil doesn’t contain components that you’re sensitive to or test it beforehand on a part of your body.

4. Master techniques for self-massage for lower back pain

Giving yourself a back massage can help because it’s almost impossible to harm yourself. Your instinct for self-preservation will usually prevent you from hurting yourself! Help yourself out after a hard day and massage your tired lower back. Make a fist and apply pressure to the sore spot.

It’s also sometimes helpful to massage yourself while lying on the floor. To do this, bend your knees and wrap your arms under them, round your back, and roll on the floor like a ball.

5. Preventing lower back pain using a massage chair

Do you have a desk job that leaves you with little time to visit a specialist? A back massage chair can be a great substitute for a masseuse and might be a useful self-help tool to consider. It’ll feel amazing, while keeping your spine healthy and capable of coping with its main task: supporting your whole body.

Do massage chairs help back pain? Hundreds of customers have confirmed that they do! Our massage chairs for back pain can be easily adjusted according to your health needs, massaging your entire body from the neck to your upper legs or targeting a specific part of your body, Massaging chairs come in a variety of designs and with a range of relaxing features.

Conclusion

Massage is a beneficial practice that has many health advantages beyond relieving lower back pain. It’s a calming way to set aside time for self-care. Massage chairs go a step further in offering the relief of therapeutic back massage at any time, from the comfort of your own home. If you’re interested in a massage chair, please get in touch with us. We’ll be happy to help you find one that’s perfect for your needs.

When it comes to relaxing at home, the easier to do, the better it is! Pick a category that appeals to you and give it a try. You can also mix and match different categories based on how you’re feeling – remember, listen to your body, and do what feels right!

Guest post from our friends at Massagers-And-More!

Are you interested in buying a massage chair, but confused silly with all the different options out there? Not to worry, I was in your shoes about a year ago. With not enough resources and information, I’d find myself tirelessly scavenging the net comparing one chair to another. Safe to say that all paid off!

Since then my fascination for massage chairs has grown tremendously. I’ve written detailed reviews on 30 odd chairs, and continue to do so as new chairs get released.

The below 6 considerations are what I personally used/followed when I purchased my massage chair. Whenever friends or family ask me “what to look for when buying a massage chair,” these are the points I recommend.

Even though some items on this list may seem subjective, it’s worth paying attention to. Without further ado!

What To Look for When Buying a Massage Chair 

#1 Price $$$$$!

Massage chairs aren’t exactly cheap, and even the cheapest of chairs will run you a solid $400-500 easy. The higher end chairs can go up to the $10K mark!

With these kinds of prices, you definitely need to know how to buy a massage chair.

And if you haven’t purchased a chair before or even know what features to look for, you can spend a lot of money on a chair that you don’t really need.

Which is why it’s so important to get a handle on budget!

You must ask yourself the following questions specifically:

1. How much am I willing to spend in total? Total means everything i.e., shipping, install fees, taxes etc.
2. How do I wish to pay? Typically, you can either finance the chair (most places offer 0% interest) over a period of several months, or you can pay the entire amount in one shot.

It’s important that you have a clear understanding of this before even looking at anything else. If you’re having difficulty coming up with a budget, just remember there’s no right or wrong answer. It’s about what you’re most comfortable spending.

If you’re okay spending $3K, fine. If you’re okay spending $6K, awesome. If you’re okay spending $500, swell!

If you have your budget nailed down, that’s it. Many people tend to budge from their set budget. Don’t be one of those people! Set yourself a budget!

But also, be realistic with what your budget will get you.

A $500 chair is going to have the most basic features. You’ll definitely still have a chair that gives you a nice massage, but don’t expect the same features in a $500 chair you’d find in a $3,000 chair. It's just not going to happen.

Set yourself a budget and tame those expectations if your budget is low.

What Do You Get When You Pay for a High-end Massage Chair?

High-end chairs fall within the $2,500 - $4,000 range, and when you sit in one of the more expensive chairs, you really notice the difference of:

• Smoother massage
• Additional massage functions
• Advanced roller systems

You really need to know what to look for in a massage chair when focusing on the high-end market because they have a ton of additional features, such as lumbar heating, massage programs, leg and foot massage and so much more.

And you’ll find a lot of different roller systems, too.

#2 Roller System: 2D, 3D, or 4D?

Once you’ve determined your budget, next step is to decide on a roller system. As of 2022, there are 3 types of roller technologies to choose from:

2D Rollers

2D rollers are the oldest technology you can find on a massage chair. They move in 2 dimensions i.e., up and down along the length of the back, and side to side across the width of the back.

3D Rollers

Basically, a step up from 2D rollers. In addition to the horizontal and vertical movements, 3D rollers can also protrude in/out. This additional dimension makes 3D rollers capable of performing deep tissue massage.

4D Rollers

The most technologically advanced roller system you can find on a massage chair. 4D rollers are the exact same as 3D, but with one major difference: roller speed control is automatic in a 4D system. In a 3D system, roller speed is something you must manually adjust.

So, does that mean you should only buy a chair with 4D rollers?

Absolutely not! 4D is the best money can buy, no question, but 3D and 2D chairs are not far behind. What’s more is the incredible industry experience around 2D rollers. Because 2D technology has been around for decades, massage chair manufacturers truly understand how to get the most out of this technology.

What’s the catch?

It’s simple. It all boils down to intensity. If you’re specifically looking for a chair capable of massaging at high intensities, consider a 3D or 4D chair. If intensity isn’t a concern for you, pick a 2D chair!

Human Touch Super Novo: Our first 4D chair. The Super Novo offers 3D and 4D massage, fingertip controls, virtual therapist, S- and L-track massage and much more!

Want to learn more about rollers and what you can expect from them? Be sure to read through our in-depth guide on 2D vs 3D vs 4D rollers.

#3 Roller Track

In point #2 we discussed the different roller technologies, that’s only one half of the equation. The other half has to do with roller track. What is roller track anyways?

Roller track talks about the distance a set of rollers will follow.

For example, there are some massage chairs with rollers that can only travel from neck to tailbone (30-32’’), and then there are other chairs whose rollers can travel all the way to the hamstrings (47-52’’).

The longer the track, the better the massage!

If you’re able to afford it, I recommend you always go for a chair with an extended roller track. The extra roller coverage makes a world of difference when it comes to massaging the glutes and hamstrings.

Human Touch iJoy Total Massage: A perfect option for anyone in the under $1,000 massage chair range!

#4 User Flexibility

This is something that often gets overlooked. If people paid more attention to this one thing, they’d end up saving so much time and money!

User flexibility is about how well a massage chair can accommodate users with varying heights and weights.

If you’re buying online, this becomes especially important to consider. If you’re buying offline, it’s still important, but not as much because you would have sat and tried the chair out.

No 2 chairs are the same!

And as such user flexibility can tend to vary from one chair to another. For example, chair X may be designed to fit in small, tight spaces, so as a result, it can only accommodate a height range of 5’0-6’0 ft. Chair Y on the other hand is designed to fit taller folks and has a height range of 5’2-6’4 ft. The same thing applies for weight.

Remember to check the height and weight limits before you buy!

The Novo XT2 is an example of a massage chair that has incredible user flexibility!

#5 Number Of Auto Modes!

Auto modes are preset or preprogrammed massage routines. They’re incredibly important for a few reasons:

1. Auto modes take away the guesswork from the user. In other words, the user doesn’t have to mess around with manual settings trying to figure out the optimum parameters for massage.
2. They keep things fresh. This is especially true for chairs that have 10+ auto modes! Because you have so many choices, massage is never repetitive and boring.

Most massage chairs generally tend to have on average 5 auto modes. Some of the better ones have 7-10, and some of the high-end ones have 30+!

#6 Massage Technology Other Than Rollers

The main roller system is arguably the most critical component to a massage chair, but it doesn't end there. There are several other components that also play a role in determining how good/bad a chair is. These are the airbags, calf rollers, and foot rollers.

Why are each of these components important?

Airbags and calf/foot rollers are important for 2 reasons:

1. They provide a massage technique different from the main roller system. For example, airbags inflate with air to provide a compression style massage.
2. They provide a massage to areas of the body where the main roller system can't reach. For example, the feet is one area where the main back rollers cannot reach.

That being said, one should always consider:

1. The number of airbags in a chair before buying. Look for a good spread across the chair!
2. The presence of calf and foot rollers. Foot rollers are a must have as far as I'm concerned. Calf rollers on the other hand is a feature you won't find in most massage chairs. After a long day, foot massages are pure bliss.

You'll also want to consider the reputation of the seller. Are they a good company that backs their product with a warranty? Is it easy to get a hold of customer support if you need help with anything?

You may never need to use your warranty or reach out to support. However, if you do have an issue with your product, you’ll be happy you researched the company to see how responsive and helpful they are.

Now that you know how to choose a massage chair, the next part is narrowing down the options in your budget range. Human Touch offers a wide range of options that will fit into every realistic price range.

We hope you enjoyed this guest post from our friends at Massagers-And-More!

Technologically-advanced devices can be hard to figure out if tech isn’t your thing. And, unfortunately, that fear of being overwhelmed by technology can steer you away from using tools that would make your life infinitely better. Some people see anything with an LCD remote and think, “Not for me. I remember last year’s ‘Surround Sound Incident’ all too well…”

Rather than having tech-anxiety, it’s important to understand that there are two types of device users: Tech-Intuitive and Research-Savvy.

Tech-Intuitive

Tech-Intuitive Users tend to integrate ever-evolving technology into their daily lives. They can easily navigate and operate most devices, because they’re engaged with the process of tech evolution. It should come as no surprise that these types of users can use any Human Touch massage chair with ease. They easily navigate through auto-massage programs, like “Energize” or “Relax,” or create their own massage program and save it for future use. More likely than not, they find it enjoyable to explore the different capabilities of each massage chair and may even try a different massage each time they sit in one.

Research Savvy

Research-Savvy Users are folks who generally read through owner’s manuals or quick guides to navigate technology. As Gretchen Rubin, New York Times #1 best-selling author of The Happiness Project, says about instruction manuals, “Why should I expect to operate something without learning anything about it?”

Some people seem to think that reading the directions is discrediting, but we all learn how to do things differently. Human Touch user manuals are easy to understand, come in multiple languages, and get you from the Power Button to a Zero-Gravity Massage in a few easy steps.

In order to demonstrate a new user experience, we had a tester try out a few different massage chairs using their owner’s manuals to help navigate the various functions. Here is what he said:

iJOY® Active 2.0 Massage Chair

“This chair seemed pretty straight forward. I was easily able to recline back and get started in an auto-massage program that I liked, since there were minimal buttons to navigate through. I didn’t really feel the need to use the owner’s manual, but it was nice that I could flip through the massage benefits it listed while I relaxed in the chair.” 

Bali Massage Chair

“The Quick Start options were easy to navigate through on the remote, and once I was more confident with the other options, I moved into Auto Immersion section on the remote control. These options ended up being pretty user friendly because they had descriptions of each different technique right there for me to read. I wasn’t sure how to adjust the calf width, but it showed an easy-to-understand diagram in the owner’s manual. I really liked that the owner’s manual also listed out intensity levels for the different Auto Immersion Programs, and descriptions of each of the Targeted Techniques. This made it easy to figure out which massage selection was best for me.”

ZeroG® 5.0 Massage Chair

“At first, I was a little overwhelmed by the remote control, since it has a lot of buttons and even has buttons on the side of it. However, this ended up being a really user-friendly remote due to the BodyMap PRO feature. It had a diagram of the human body, and I simply pressed a button wherever I wanted to feel relief. Everything else was really self-explanatory and I was able to select the massage intensity, recline position, and leg extension just by pressing one or two buttons. I actually enjoyed reading the manual because it talked about massage benefits, and it also clearly explained every button on the remote.”

NOVO Massage Chair

“I started this one in Demo mode just to get the feel of it, and really loved how it cradles you like a rocking chair while you’re getting massaged. The remote was really simple to navigate, and I tried a few different auto-massage programs until I found one that I liked the best. The great thing about all of these chairs is that I can try out one style of massage and if I don’t like it, I can switch to something else right then and there. Once my massage was finished, the chair put itself right back into a regular seated position and turned itself off. It was great.”

We’re all at different expertise levels when it comes to technology, but there’s no reason to be intimidated by it. The great thing about Human Touch massage chairs is that you can navigate technology through the way it makes you feel, and try out the different settings to fit your own unique needs. If you still struggle to understand something, you can always call the Customer Experience department to answer your questions and get you on the right track.

So, whether you’re Tech-Intuitive or Research Savvy, it’s easy to Feel Your Best. For more information on our Human Touch massage chairs, call our Customer Experience team at (800) 355-2762, or go to https://www.humantouch.com/.

Photo Credit: Thomas Hafeneth

Massage is one of the fastest-growing complementary therapies around the world. Like any other treatment, diabetic massage has several potential benefits and side effects for people with this diagnosis. Some studies show that it has a positive impact on blood glucose levels and symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. In fact, one group study found that when parents gave a full-body nightly massage to their diabetic children, the children’s glucose levels dropped from an average of 158 to 117 mg / dL within one month.

Diabetes massage relaxes the muscles and calms the mind, thus reducing the physical and mental ailments associated with diabetic symptoms.

What Are Common Complications of Diabetes?

According to the American Diabetes Association, an estimated 1 out of 3 diabetics over the age of 50 will suffer from peripheral arterial disease (PAD). PAD occurs when the blood vessels in the legs are narrowed and blocked by fatty deposits, and the blood flow to the feet is decreased. This can result in an alarming number of consequences, ranging from foot ulcers to amputation. Therefore, it is critical for people with diabetes to ensure that the blood flow to their legs is regulated.

Can Diabetics Use Massage Chairs with Foot Massagers?

Massage products—from recliners with foot-and-calf massagers, to targeted foot-and-calf relief solutions—can serve as an incredibly useful tool for patients with diabetes seeking to increase blood flow in their legs and swollen feet. The Figure-Eight^® Technology in many Human Touch^® products delivers an advanced technique that emulates those used by a professional masseuse, and this technique increases the blood flow between the legs and torso.

Benefits of Foot Massage for Diabetics

Massage has been shown to drop glucose levels, which can help to prevent hyperglycemia in diabetics. According to Healthline.com, hyperglycemia can cause eye damage, cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, nerve damage (neuropathy), skin and gum infections, joint problems and even can result in a diabetic coma. Helping to relax your body will assist in lowering your glucose levels, which can prevent these types of hyperglycemic ailments.

Another benefit of diabetes massage is the increase in flexibility as the muscles are loosened. High blood sugar can result in the thickening of connective tissue, and massage will increase the mobility and elasticity of that tissue. As the muscles, tendons and ligaments are relaxed, patients will find an increase in motion and flexibility in the joints, therefore improving their quality of life. Thus, a foot massager for diabetics is a great way to increase flexibility and mobility in their feet. Diabetics also often have restricted blood flow in their feet, which massage can help increase.

Important Precautions of Massage for People with Diabetes

All of these benefits of massage should be noted by anyone suffering from diabetes. However, if you are diabetic, you need to consider a few important factors when seeking the therapy.

As with any type of physical therapy, you need to consult your physician before beginning massage therapy. It’s a great option for anyone seeking stress and pain relief, but people with diabetes need to be aware of fluctuations in their blood sugar levels at all times. Diabetics especially need to monitor their glucose levels after such therapy. They may not need as much insulin as they normally do after a massage.

It is also important for diabetics to avoid massage in an area where they inject insulin. Pressure in this area may influence the way that their body absorbs the shot and therefore alter their intake. This is one of the things professional athletes suffering from diabetes especially need to be mindful of.

Are Foot Massagers Good for Diabetics with Neuropathy?

As a final recommendation, diabetics should be cautious when assessing the pressure levels and heat options from any massage service, whether from a masseuse, a chair or with a foot massager. Those who want to try foot massage for diabetic neuropathy need to consult with a healthcare professional and also do their own research to determine if the massage technique or heating levels are ideal for a person of their body type and sensitivity levels.

Deciding to purchase a Human Touch wellness solution is an easy decision, but transporting it home can be daunting. Some of our massage chairs weigh over 275 lbs., which might not be quite what you’re benching at the gym. Fortunately, there are a few different ways to ship your chair to your home or office so that you can start enjoying it.

Threshold Plus Delivery

With the Threshold Plus Delivery option, your chair will be shipped to its final destination by two trained service providers. Prior to delivery, these experts will let you know when to expect them within a 4-hour window, in which they will unload the packaged chair just inside of your preferred building entrance or doorway for you. Many of our products are already assembled, but a few of them take some minor assembly to attach pad sets or headrests. Assembly is not included with this delivery option.

White Glove Delivery

With lighter chairs, Threshold Plus Delivery might be the best solution for you. However, with some of the larger massage chairs, you may want to consider taking advantage of our White Glove Delivery option. With this delivery system, our team will not only bring the chair to your home or business, but carry it into whichever room you prefer (within the first level of the building). They will then unpack the product for you, fully assemble it, and connect it with the nearest power source. If there is any debris or packing materials left over from the unboxing process, they will tidy up the area for you so that you can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy your new wellness solution.

As an added bonus- White Glove Delivery is offered as a free service with all Ascent Series massage chairs, as well as a number of other elite massage chairs. You can also take advantage of White Glove Delivery with any of our other wellness products for an additional charge. 

Fibromyalgia, a chronic musculoskeletal condition, affects nearly five million Americans and significantly more women are likely to suffer from the disease than men. The main symptom of it is experiencing pain throughout the entire body, as well as tension headaches, fatigue, stiffness and sleep disorders. Still, the cause of fibromyalgia is still unknown. As a result, those who suffer from it often have anxiety if they will find long-term pain relief. 

In 1990, researchers at the American College of Rheumatology identified 18 fibromyalgia pressure points, a.k.a. tender points, that are still used to help therapists diagnose patients with this disease. People feel the tension in their skeletal muscles and in the connective muscle tissue of their body. This tension decreases fibromyalgia patients’ muscle elasticity and affects their arterial blood supply. This activates someone’s pain receptors and results in chronic pain that may not be caused by anything apparent. As a result, treating pain for fibromyalgia sufferers is difficult. The root cause of what leads to experiencing symptoms often is unknown.

The pain of fibromyalgia is only a start to the endless cycle of issues that affect a person’s central nervous system’s release of serotonin. Because of problems with releasing serotonin, patience has an increased likelihood of depression and/or mood swings. Suffering from fibromyalgia also affects the ability to achieve quality rest, which prevents the body from being able to repair itself and can further increase a patient’s depression and exhaust the body, mind and spirit.

Massage Therapy for Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia has no direct cure. However, several treatments are available to alleviate someone’s symptoms. One of the best treatments is for fibromyalgia sufferers to receive is massage therapy. Such therapy helps people get calf pain relief, decreases their stress hormones, and increases their serotonin level. With these benefits, it improves the overall sense of well-being. Special fibromyalgia massage therapy techniques also help to relax the body in order to achieve quality sleep, so the body can repair itself and start fresh for the following day. Once the body has reached homeostasis following a night of quality rest, someone can have both the mental and physical energy to address challenges throughout the next day.

Fibromyalgia and Massage Types

The best massage techniques for fibromyalgia patients combine kneading, pressure, stretching and heat. These techniques will loosen up the parts of the body that are tight and will increase someone’s mobility, allowing them to take on more physical tasks. Good techniques for fibromyalgia also increase circulation and help the body to clear out toxins within the muscles. Recommended forms of massage for fibromyalgia include: 

Massage Chair Benefits for Fibromyalgia Patients

Massage chairs make an excellent option for those suffering from fibromyalgia as they are the most cost-effective method for people who require regular, long-term therapy. They also make a great choice because of the convenience and availability for the user to take advantage of professional-grade therapy at any time of day, for as long as they like, and without having to leave the comfort of their home.

Some of the best massage chairs for fibromyalgia patients include: 

• Super Novo massage chair
• Novo XT2 massage chair
• ZeroG 5.0 massage chair
• WholeBody^® 7.1 massage chair
• iJOY^® Total Massage

Massage Constraints  for Fibromyalgia Patients

Those with fibromyalgia should consult their physician prior to receiving any massage therapy. They also should receive only gentle-pressure massages because their muscles can be sensitive. Once you’ve consulted a therapist and picked a necessary therapy option, make sure to avoid deep-tissue work due to its pressure intensity and muscle overstretching through the treatment process. 

Patients also should stick to short sessions. Otherwise, they take a risk to feel unwanted pain after the treatment. The goal is to make your muscles relax and make them more pliable, not to make you hurt.  

Massage Benefits for Fibromyalgia Patients

Here are the advantages of fibromyalgia massage therapy techniques:

1) Relaxation to improve sleep. Evening sessions help patients improve their sleep quality at night, thereby allowing the body to recover faster.

2) Improving muscle tone. Massage therapy helps to strengthen the lax muscles and restore the strength and vitality of the client’s body.

3) Improving mental clarity. Relaxation sessions help raise health awareness and reduce mental stress for patients.

4) Elimination of headaches. Improving blood flow to the brain helps alleviate the physical source of headaches for patients. In addition, having such pain relief helps to keep the patient’s mind in a healthier space.