A good massage chair can be a great way to relax at home.  Advanced technology found in massage chairs today provides the effect of a
3-dimensional massage at the click of a button.  These chairs use robotic systems that have mechanical rollers coupled with air massage devices. 

 

Some of the massage techniques that are usually found in massage chairs are

 

Kneading massage - This is a circular type of massage that applies and releases pressure alternately to the neck and spine region.  This increases circulation, eases soreness and relieves tensed muscles. 

 

Compression massage - Alternating strokes that massage muscles relieves stress. The compression technique is useful in improving mobility and posture.

 

Tapping massage - Fast and forceful movements as in tapping help eliminate stiffness, relieve tension and enhance circulation.  Higher number of taps per minute produces better results.

 

Rolling massage - The inbuilt rollers in the chair travel up and down the spine stretching spinal muscles.  This relieves tension and pressure on the spinal discs.  Stimulation of the spinal nerve roots reduces back pain. 

 

Foot and calf massage – Calf and foot massage is a great way to relax tired and aching legs.  Mechanical or air devices in the chair work at variable speeds to perform a 3-dimensional action starting at the ankles up to knees.

 

Reflexology – Reflexology is essentially mechanical or air devices that apply pressure akin to that produced by the thumb on the feet.

Complete Body stretch - In this massage type, the foot and calf massager gently hold the legs while the chair reclines to arch the back simultaneously massaging lower back.

 

Choosing the 'right' massage chair can be quite a daunting task.  Here are some guidelines that can help you with this task.

Comfort - Comfort is a very important consideration.  Find a massage chair that offers multiple recline positions, be sure to check that these are comfortable for you.  Memory foam seats, extendable footrests, and ergonomic headrests are other features that make a massage chair comfortable for different body sizes.

 

Durability - Durability of a massage chair will depend on what it is made of.  Leather chairs require careful handling and special care.  Synthetic materials may be longer lasting as they are stronger as compared to delicate material like leather. 

Stability - The stability factor will depend on the size, weight and height parameters.  These should be appropriate for all the body sizes using the massage chair. 

 

Massage techniques - Not all massage chairs will have the massage techniques you would want.  Make sure the one you are purchasing fulfills your requirement with regards to this. Massage chairs that have pre-programmed massages are available.  They may also have manual functions where in you can choose the type of massage you want.  Some chairs have a "mapping" technique to find out which body areas require massage most.

 

Roller quality - Roller types and sizes vary from chair to chair.  The thumb rule states that larger the roller, better focused is the massage.   Chairs that have air massage, vibration or discs instead of rollers may cost less but the massage quality is compromised in such types of chairs.

 

Motor - Motor quality will surely make a difference to the performance and durability of the massage chair.  If the chair functions on one motor, ensure it's a high-quality one that does not burn out from excessive usage.  Some chairs come with multiple motors (one for each or a group of functions).  There could be fewer loads on the motors in such chairs. 

 

Warranty - Last but not the least, manufacturer's warranty is an important factor as massage chairs don't come cheap.  Checking for a return policy is worthwhile incase you find out you have made a mistake with the chair you purchased.