There are many things to consider when looking for a massage chair. You want to consider your needs and those of other people who may use the chair regularly. Massage chairs contain a variety of different therapeutic features. You can also find a wide variety of different massage therapies. There is a lot to consider when you are looking for these advanced recliners. Here are some of the more important considerations when evaluating your needs and which massage chairs will best fill them.
Research Different Brands: It is important to consider a number of different brands. Each manufacturer specializes in different areas. The results and benefits of receiving massage therapy are dependent on the chair which is providing it. It is easy to start with the Internet to find out the main manufacturers and to print out the specifications of their models. Call the manufacturers and ask them any questions you may have. Another avenue is to call Internet dealers and ask them their opinions about different brands as well. There are also a number of massage chair review sites which offer you a range of opinions about different models.
Purchase for the Long Term: Models of massage chairs vary in their life span. Although you can get a massage chair for under $1000, you will have a much shorter lifespan than ones that run a few thousand dollars. It is important to consider the timeframe in which you would like to use the recliner. Higher end models are designed to last 2000hours. Some of the lower end models are designed to last 500 hours. Be sure you understand your needs before purchasing.
Massage Therapy: If you are not that familiar with the different massage treatments, then there are quite a number of techniques integrated into today's massage chairs to learn. Popular massage techniques such as Swedish, deep tissue, shiatsu, sports therapy and even Hawaiian can be found in massage chairs. This gives you a great variety of treatments. Each of these treatments delivers different sets of benefits and results. It is important to see if the chair comes with manual massage techniques as well as automatic massages. Most massage chairs allow you to target a specific area or point for relief.
Evaluate Your Needs: Understanding your needs is an important part of the buying process. Do you have any particular ailments that you are looking for the massage chair to relieve? Are there particular massage treatments that you would like to receive? Is it important to have the application of heat? Would you like to listen to music during your massage? Who else will be using the chair on a regular basis? Doing some preliminary analysis on your needs will help direct you to a chair to fit your needs.
Therapeutic Features of Massage Chairs: Massage recliners now come with a variety of therapeutic features. Of course, they have a range of different massage treatments. Massage treatments consist of automatic massages, manual massage techniques and massage courses. You can also get a variety of other features such as stretching, heaters, music players and even foot reflexology massage.
Motorized or Manual Recline: Many massage chairs come with a powered chair back and leg rest. These are normally the more expensive models. The less expensive models use hydraulic cylinders and levers to recline. The use of levers and a hydraulic cylinder generally will recline the chair in one direction but the user must assist it in the other. Determine your mobility needs and whether you need powered or manual recline.
Upholstery Options: You get a variety of different upholstery options with massage chairs. You can find recliners with leather, faux suede and synthetic leather. Leather is a bit higher maintenance but is very wear resistant. Its use is limited because it does not hold up well to heat. Massage chairs with heating elements must use alternative materials. Synthetic leather has improved dramatically over the years. It is easy to clean up and comes in a variety of very soft and wear resistant materials. Faux suede offers a variety of fashionable colors. Its only drawback is keeping it clean.
Placing Your Massage Chair: The placement of your chair is also an important consideration. You have to consider traffic in different rooms and where it is best to get a relaxing massage. Some massage chairs come with a music player and headphones which can eliminate problems of excessive noise. Make sure that the room has adequate space for accommodating the recliner. Recliners can take up to six or seven feet when they are fully recline. The recline position is when the chair is fully back and the leg rest is completely raised. Another important consideration is the decorating scheme of your room and the design of the massage chair.
Customer Support & Warranty Coverage: Warranty coverage is about parts, labor, shipping and in-home service. Some manufacturers cover only the main mechanical or electrical parts. Most do not cover the upholstery or accessories. Labor may be included, but may only apply to labor at the manufacturer and not include in home technician service. Shipping parts or the chair for that matter is sometimes covered during the warranty period. If parts or your chair needs to be shipped, you want to know who covers it. In home technician service is a value added service. The major brands will offer it which gives you much more peace of mind. Get the peace of mind of in-home technician service. Make sure you get this as having to have to move your massage chair and take it to a service center can be a real pain.
Your Shipping Options: There are three basic shipping options to choose from. There is curbside, threshold and White glove delivery. Curbside means that the massage chair will be brought up to your door. Threshold means that the massage chair will be brought into your home. White glove delivery means that two people will come and deliver the chair and set it up. With the white glove delivery, the chair will be placed and set up with the accessories. They also will remove the packaging material. Shop around and see if you can get a good deal on shipping or even if it will be included for free.
Trying Massage Chairs: Have some fun and go out and try some massage chairs. Many malls have stores that offer massage chairs. Try a high-end model versus a lower end or midrange model. What are the main differences that you found? Do these make an important difference in your buying decision? Try different massage techniques. Try the automatic programs versus the manual techniques. Try different therapeutic features and find what will best fit your needs.
Evaluate the Information: At this point, you have probably gathered a lot of information. It's time to start to put all the pieces together in order to make a decision. Hopefully, you have a good idea of the people that may be using the chair on a regular basis. We need to consider your needs and theirs. Also, what models of chairs best fit meeting these needs? Go through the information and assess it. Look at the short term and look at the long term.
Decide On Your Massage Chair: at this point, you have evaluated and assessed both your needs and the models of chairs that interest you. You have to narrow down your list and make your choice. You may want to shop around to find the best deal. Your local retailer may provide free delivery but must charge you state sales tax. An Internet dealer may provide the same model and offer free shipping and no state sales tax. It is important to call Internet dealers as many are not able to advertise below certain levels. However, they may cut you a deal on the side.
Read the User Manual: Everyone gets very excited to use the massage chair when it first arrives. It is important to review the user manual. It will point out some important safety precautions. Also, it gives you tips on how best to position yourself and takes advantage of its many massage treatments. This will enable you to target specific areas quickly and come up to speed on its capabilities.
Proper Use of the Chair: Get the most out of you massage recliner and your investment: Read the manual to learn how to use the chair properly. Understand the main functions on the remote control. When you first sit in the chair, get comfortable before you start any massage treatment. Recline the chair back and raise the leg rest. The further you recline the stronger the massage as your body weight will be directly on the rollers. Raise the footrest either horizontal or so that your legs are bent. Adjust the head pillow so it supports your head effectively. If you do not want the pillow, just push it behind the chair. Once you are set, then start the massage and relax.
A massage recliner can last you for many years. It will provide you with reliable massage therapy for a variety of different issues. Make sure you take your time to find a recliner that best fits the needs of you and others. Make sure you evaluate the different warranties, features and other aspects of the chair. You should shop around and find the best deal for your favorite model. |