Is there anything more relaxing than a massage? Most people buy massage chairs or book appointments with massage therapists because they want to de-stress and alleviate tension. But did you know that massage can also have other benefits, especially for women’s health?

Let’s explore how massage improves a woman’s health and offer massage tips.

What Kind of Massage Is Good for Improving Women's Health?

Virtually any type of massage can benefit a woman’s health, but some types offer greater benefits than others.

Some of the best types of massage to improve women’s health are:

Swedish

Swedish massage uses gentle, long strokes to help reduce minor pain and promote relaxation. This type of massage also helps promote better blood flow and improve flexibility.

Deep Tissue

A deep tissue massage is a bit more rigorous and intense than a Swedish massage. More pressure is applied to the muscles to help alleviate pain and get rid of tension.

The objective of this massage is to focus on the deep layers of the muscles.

Along with reducing pain and tension, deep tissue massages can also:

• Promote better blood flow
• Reduce inflammation
• Reduce arthritis
• Rehabilitate injured muscles

Shiatsu

Shiatsu massage is a Japanese technique that applies pressure to specific points on the body to promote flexibility and reduce pain.

This type of massage offers many benefits, including:

• Less anxiety and stress
• Better posture
• Better blood circulation
• Improved sleep quality

Reflexology

Reflexology is a healthy massage technique that aims to restore natural energy levels using gentle or firm pressure on different pressure points on the feet and hands. These points are believed to be associated with different areas of the body.

Individual's Specific Needs and Health Conditions When Using Massage Chairs

When choosing a massage chair, it’s important to consider the person’s individual woman's health needs and conditions. For example, is the person experiencing:

• Pain?
• Stress?
• Tension?

Understanding the person’s needs and health issues can help you determine which type of chair and which type of massage will provide the most relief.

For example, if the person has moderate back pain, a deep tissue massage may be more beneficial than a Swedish massage.

How To Choose a Massage Chair That Will Help Improve Women's Health?

Now that you understand the benefits of massage and the role of the individual’s specific needs and health conditions, you can start looking for a massage chair that will help you enjoy these benefits.

Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

• Massage Needs: What type of massage will you want or need? It’s important to choose a chair that can deliver your preferred massage intensity level.
• Space: How much space do you have? Some chairs will need more room than others. You can find massage chairs that are compact enough for home office use and others that are best suited for dedicated relaxation spaces.
• Features: What type of features would you like in a massage chair? You can find models with built-in speakers, acupressure massage, lumbar heating, foot massage and more.

With these points in mind, let’s look at some of our best massage chairs to promote and support women’s health.

Super Novo Massage Chair

The Super Novo is one of our most advanced massage chairs, offering 3D and 4D massage, a built-in sound system and more. This massage chair has an S- and L-track massage that extends the entire length of the spine to cover more of the back than other massage chairs.

The 3D and 4D massage programs speed up and slow down the massage strokes to mimic the hands of a real massage therapist. In addition, dual lumbar heating helps soothe tight muscles, alleviate pain and help with stress reduction.

The extended foot, calf and knee massage provides a full-body massage experience. There are 38 built-in programs, including deep tissue, recovery, full-body immersion and more. Plus, the Cloud Touch Acupressure system targets pressure points on the body to help alleviate pain and even stretch muscles.

You’ll also love that this chair can move into the zero gravity position, which helps take more pressure off the spine.

Learn more about the Super Novo at Human Touch.

WholeBody® ROVE Massage Chair

The WholeBody ROVE chair delivers a moderate intensity massage and is suitable for people of virtually any height.

ROVE features an S- and L-body track massage, but it also offers a full-body stretch functionality. Eight auto wellness programs will help alleviate pain and tension. Dual lumbar heating allows you to slip into a state of total relaxation while melting away tension in the back.

There's a built-in foot and calf massager, making it another great option for full body massage chairs.

What’s great about this model is that it has a built-in AcuPoint system, which scans the back and maps out the built-in programs to maximize effectiveness.

Zero gravity seating and Cloud Touch acupressure can help alleviate pressure on the spine and manipulate muscles.

Learn more about the WholeBody ROVE at Human Touch.

Certus Massage Chair

For people with more moderate to intense pain, the Certus massage chair is a great option. This chair can deliver a vigorous massage and accommodate people of most heights – up to 6’9.”

This sleek chair has auto wellness programs, a 3D massage function and other great features that help deliver a truly realistic massage experience.

Certus has 11 auto wellness programs and an S- and L-track massage system. The extended foot and calf massager provides a full-body massage experience.

If you suffer from lower back pain, you’ll find that the dual lumber and foot heating will help melt away tension. This chair also has Human Touch’s AcuPoint system, which scans and maps out the back to maximize the effectiveness of massage programs.

The built-in sound system can help you relax and make the experience even more immersive.

Learn more about the Certus massage chair at Human Touch.

Gravis ZG Chair

The Gravis ZG chair is a great option if you want a gentler massage. With its sleek and compact design, the Gravis ZG fits into any home or office.

While this chair doesn’t have a complex massage system like the other models on this list, it does offer air massage technology, heat zones and adjustable features for maximum comfort.

Learn more about the Gravis ZG chair at Human Touch.

Final Thoughts

Massage offers many benefits for women’s health, and having your own in-home massage chair will allow you to enjoy those benefits anytime you want.

The chairs listed above can help alleviate pain and tension. No matter what your health issues are, you’re sure to find a chair that will meet your needs on the list above.

Making the decision to buy a massage chair is easy. But finding the right one? That’s a little more complicated.

Before you buy a massage chair, there are four important questions to ask:

• How do you choose one?
• How often can you use one?
• How much should it cost?
• Where should you buy one?

How to Choose a Massage Chair?

The first and most important question to ask is: how do you choose a massage chair?

It's important to know what to look for when comparing chairs so that you can find the right one for your needs, lifestyle and budget.

Your Needs

Why are you buying a massage chair? Do you suffer from back pain? Do you work a high-stress job that causes muscle tension?

Understanding your needs is crucial because it will allow you to find a chair with all of the features you need.

For example:

• If you suffer from back pain, a chair like the WholeBody® 5.1 or Super Novo would be beneficial because they offer a full-body massage experience.
• If you need a chair to help with post-workout recovery, the Sana or Quies chairs would be great options because they can deliver a deep tissue massage that will get the blood flowing and help reduce tension.

Once you understand your needs, you can start narrowing down your choices and find a chair that matches your criteria.

Your Desired Features

Now that you know your needs and purpose for the chair, you can start considering features. Which ones are most important to you?

Do you want:

• Zero Gravity?
• Bluetooth speakers?
• Acupressure?
• Calf and foot massage?
• Lumbar heating?
• Built-in massage programs?

If you want a chair that reclines or goes into the Zero Gravity position, you’ll need to consider how much wall clearance you will need. Some chairs, like our Certus chair, are designed so that you don’t need clearance to recline.

Remember to keep your needs in mind when creating your list of desired features. Also, consider that little extras, like having built-in speakers and a tablet holder, are nice to have because they create an immersive experience.

Care and Maintenance

Another critical thing to consider is the care and maintenance of your chair.

• Is the chair easy to clean?
• What kind of maintenance does the chair require?

If you have a busy and active lifestyle, you may want a chair with lower maintenance and care requirements.

Our Product Support page provides detailed information on how to set up and care for our chairs. Having this information on-hand will help you narrow down your choices to chairs that fit into your lifestyle.

How Often Can You Use a Massage Chair in a Day?

Along with knowing how to use a massage chair, it’s essential to know how often you can use your chair in a day.

The answer really depends on the intensity of the massage and your physical condition.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s best to use your chair no more than twice per day for about 15 minutes per session. Using your chair more than twice per day may cause bruising or muscle damage.

How Much Should a Good Massage Chair Cost?

Another vital question to ask is: how much will a good massage chair cost?

You can find massage chairs at all price levels, but not all of them will offer the same experience. A high-end massage chair will provide durability and a better-quality massage compared to a low-end chair.

There are several factors that affect the cost of a massage chair:

Massage Technologies

When comparing massage chairs, you may see the terms “S track,” “L track,” “3D” and “4D.” These massage technologies have a major impact on your experience and give you an idea of the chair’s quality.

• S Track: These massage rollers follow the natural curve of your back, but only run from your neck to the base of your spine.
• L Track: These massage rollers also follow the natural curve of your spine, but they extend down to underneath the back of your legs.

A massage chair with an S track and L track – along with a calf and foot massager – will offer a full-body massage. A chair with just an S track will offer a great back, neck and shoulder massage, but will not extend beyond that.

Along with the length of the track, massage chairs also have 2D, 3D or 4D technologies. These refer to the degree to which the massage rollers mimic natural hand movements.

• 2D: These rollers move up and down and side to side.
• 3D: These rollers move up and down, side to side, and outward to increase the intensity of the massage.
• 4D: These rollers can move up and down, side to side and back and forth. They offer a deeper reach and create the most realistic massage experience.

As you can see, massage chairs can be made with a variety of technologies, all of which affect the cost of the chair. The more advanced the technology, the higher the price and the better the experience.

Recline or Zero Gravity

Some massage chairs recline, while others don’t. Some can also move into Zero Gravity. The chair’s ability to move into different positions will impact its cost.

Extra Features

A chair’s cost will also be largely dependent on its features. The massage technologies and materials used to construct the chair will have the biggest impact on cost. However, chairs with nice little extra features will also come at a higher cost, such as:

• Lumbar heating
• Acupressure
• Calf and foot massage
• Built-in speakers
• Voice-activated technology

Most modern massage chairs also have built-in auto programs. Unfortunately, more programs typically translate to a higher price tag.

These are some of the biggest factors that affect a chair’s cost. In addition, warranties and white glove delivery options may also add to the overall price of a massage chair.

Where to Buy a Massage Chair?

The final question to ask is where to buy a massage chair. Today, you have more options than ever when buying a massage chair. You can browse a wide selection of chairs right from the comfort of your home using your smartphone or laptop.

Whether you buy online or in person, it’s important to consider the credibility and reputation of the brand. Brands that have been in business for decades, like Human Touch, offer a higher level of service, durability and quality.

Final Thoughts

Buying a massage chair is a great investment, but it’s a decision that should be made with care. Keep these four questions in mind when choosing and comparing your options to purchase a chair that will meet your needs and give you years of use.

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.