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

Massage Chair Features to Look For

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

Price

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

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

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

Functionality

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

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

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

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

Size

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

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

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

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

Massage Intensity

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

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

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

Upholstery

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

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

Warranty

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

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

Different Types of Massage Chairs

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

Rollers & Tracks

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

2D Rollers

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

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

3D Rollers

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

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

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

4D Rollers

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

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

S-Track

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

L-Track

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

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

Massage Techniques

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

Swedish

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

Deep Tissue

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

Shiatsu

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

Foot and Calf Massages

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

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

Heated

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

Stretching

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

Reflexology

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

Other Massage Therapy Features

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

Zero Gravity Seating

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

Bluetooth & Built-in Speakers

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

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

How Much is a Massage Chair?

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

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

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

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

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

What is Zero Gravity Seating?

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

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

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

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

Zero Gravity vs. Anti Gravity Chair

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

How Zero Gravity Chairs Work

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How Zero Gravity Chairs Impact Your Health

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

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

Better Circulation

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

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

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

Less Back Pain

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

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

Deeper Relaxation

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

Common Physical Recovery Issues While Travelling

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Signs and Symptoms

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

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

Is Massage Good for Plantar Fasciitis?

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

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

The Benefits of a Plantar Fasciitis Massage

There are many benefits to plantar fasciitis massages:

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

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

Risks and Precautions

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

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

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

How To Do A Plantar Fasciitis Relief Massage At Home

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

Push Massage

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

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

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

Pull Massage

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

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

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

Ball Massager

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

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

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

Human Touch Massage Chairs

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

Certus Massage Chair

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

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

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

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

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

Get the Certus Massage Chair at Human Touch.

Super Novo Massage Chair

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

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

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

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

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

Get the Super Novo Massage Chair at Human Touch.

Reflex5s Foot and Calf Massager

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

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

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

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

Get the Reflex5s at Human Touch.

Final Thoughts

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

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

Best Ergonomic Chair Reviews

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

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

A few of the chair's many features include:

Features

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

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

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

Ergonomic Relaxing Chairs – Gravis ZG Chair

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

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

Features

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

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

Get the Gravis ZG Chair today.

Ergonomic Home Office Chairs – Super Novo

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

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

Features

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

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

Get the Super Novo massage chair at Human Touch.

Budget Ergonomic Chair – WholeBody^® 7.1

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

Features

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

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

Get the WholeBody 7.1 at Human Touch

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Decorate Your Space

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

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

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

2. Work on Lighting

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

Another popular option is to:

• Light candles
• Put on the fireplace

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

3. Add in Relaxing Sounds

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

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

• Doesn't cause you to think
• Relaxes you

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

4. Don't Forget About Aromatherapy

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

• Relieve stress
• Balance blood pressure
• Relax you

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

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

• Peppermint
• Lemon
• Frankincense
• Ylang-ylang

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

5. Kick Back in a Luxury Massage Chair

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

What chairs do we recommend?

Super Novo

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

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

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

Click here to learn more about the Super Novo.

Certus Massage Chair

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

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

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

Click here to learn more about the Certus massage chair.

Gravis ZG Chair

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

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

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

Click here to learn more about the Gravis ZG Chair.

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

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

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

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

Click here to learn more about the Reflex SOL.

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

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

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

How to Use Massage Chairs for Recovery in the Right Way

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

The key parts I check are the following:

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

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

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

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

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

Do I Need a Massage for Muscle Recovery?

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

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

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

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

Mother's Day is all about her, but it's really hard to find the perfect gift that doesn't include a night out to eat or some kind of candy. Mom deserves a little luxury and a lot of relaxation, and that's the main focus of our Mother's Day gift guide.

While we can focus on many other items, we're going to focus on massage because it promotes optimal health and well-being.

3 Massage Gift Ideas for Mother's Day

1. Gravis ZG Chair

The Gravis ZG kicks off our Mother's Day relaxation gifts, and it's a beautiful chair that's perfect after a long day. ZG offers a nice, gentle massage that will slowly ease pain and aches, with multiple heat zones, adjustable positions, targeted massage and even an app.

Some of the key benefits of this chair are:

Features and Benefits

• Air massage technology that gently targets key pain points and tension areas
• Multiple heat zones to melt stress and tension away
• Easy adjustments of the back, feet and head
• Recline and include options to take the weight off of the joints and allow you to relax

Where to Buy?

Click here to purchase the Gravis ZG Chair.

2. Perfect Chair PC-610 Supreme Upholstery Package

The PC-610 is an amazing chair that's hand-crafted and painted. Our Supreme Package brings the chair to a whole other level of comfort with luxury materials (Pssst! We're running a sale on this package right now).

The PC-610 offers:

Features and Benefits

• Zero gravity function to offer maximum comfort and relief from achy joints
• 3D EasePoint technology to alleviate aches and pains
• Jade heat stones on the back to relieve pain and tension
• Easy adjustments for the head, armrests and lumbar system

And the Supreme Upholstery package doesn't have to be an expensive Mother's Day gift. For the entire month of May 2022, we're offering $500 off this Supreme upholstery package for moms who deserve to be spoiled.

Where to Buy?

Click here to purchase the Perfect Chair PC-610 Chair.

3. WholeBody® 5.1

Our WholeBody 5.1 is a beautiful massage chair that's also affordable. The compact design allows it to fit in most spaces with ease. The massage intensity is moderate, so it will provide a nice, relaxing massage without being too intense.

As one of our best sellers, this chair offers a feature-rich design that includes top-tier benefits.

Features and Benefits

• 55-degree swivel base to make moving in the chair easy
• Ottoman with foot and calf massager that is fully retractable
• Dual motor on the leg rest and back
• Three massage programs
• FlexGlide massage technology

Mom can sit back, kick up her feet and enjoy our CirQlation® technology, which provides a figure-eight calf massage. With the addition of auto massage programs, the WholeBody is a great gift on Mother's Day.

Where to Buy?

Click here to purchase the WholeBody 5.1 Chair.

Why a Massage Chair is Perfect to Give on Mother's Day

Mother's Day gifts and luxury go together. If you're wondering why massage chairs are the perfect gift for moms, there are numerous reasons:

• Stress: Life is stressful. A mom who has been doing everything for her kids and maintaining a household has a mountain of stress. Massage has been shown to reduce stress and help people relax.
• Reduce pain. Massaging sore and painful muscles is well-known for reducing pain. Today's massage chairs work nearly as efficiently as a professional masseuse to help alleviate aches and pains.
• Immune function. There's some evidence that massage may help boost immune system function. For any mom, a strong immune system means that she can continue through her day feeling her best.
• Energy. Massages are known for being relaxing, but they also provide a boost of energy and can help improve alertness.

Additionally, if you decide to purchase her a massage at a local massage parlor, it's a one-off massage that will be relaxing but short-lived. Massage chairs allow her to have a massage in the comfort of her own home whenever she wants.

It's the gift that keeps on giving, and it's something that she'll surely love.

Plus, moms work hard to ensure that their families are well cared for. She deserves to have some time to herself. And a massage chair is one way to splurge on mom and say "thank you" for all that she's done.

Final Thoughts

We focused on massage chairs in our Mother's Day gift guide because mom deserves to enjoy a daily massage. You'll find that these chairs are relaxing Mother's Day gifts that keep on giving. She'll enjoy lower stress, aches, pains and trips to a massage therapist thanks to her massage chair.

It's the perfect Mother's Day gift massage that she can enjoy any time and any day.

Many people use pain relief massage therapy, but we're also seeing massage mentioned as one of the healthy alternatives to drugs. In fact, one study of 401 adults found that over a 10-week period, a one-hour massage was able to reduce pain and improve daily activities better than the control group, which followed standard care recommendations, including using pain killers.

Alternative massage can be used alongside traditional care routines to reduce pain and limit the use of addictive pain killers.

Massage can be used for alternative pain management, but it also extends further than just pain management. Let's look at the symptoms that massage can help ease or relieve completely:

What Symptoms Can Be Cured With Massage?

Human Touch conducted a direct-to-consumer research project in 2014, and in 2022, a secondary research project. This time, we conducted research on customers that purchased our chairs in 2016 with the help of the Portland Research Group.

We found the following:

• 51% of respondents took over the counter medication to reduce pain
• 26% took prescription medications for pain
• 49% who took pain medications and experienced pain took less medication after buying a Human Touch massage chair
• 14% of these respondents who purchased a Human Touch massage chair actually no longer take pain medication

When compared to 2016, respondents reduced their reliance on prescription medications significantly. See more figures from our research in the infographic below.

Massage is one of the alternative activities to drug use that doesn't interact with medications or cause symptoms to worsen.

Simply sit back and enjoy a pain management massage in one of our chairs.

Massage can help combat many symptoms, including:

• Swelling, by promoting circulation
• Pain, reducing reliance on opioids
• Reduce anxiety (here is a study on this subject)

Other studies also show that massage therapy can help with the sleep symptoms of PTSD and may help reduce symptoms associated with:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Tension
• Irritability
• Joint pain
• Muscle fatigue
• Headaches
• Insomnia

Additionally, massage after surgery, when you expect to experience pain the most, has also been shown to improve postoperative outcomes. In fact, one systematic review found massage improved outcomes, helped promote faster recovery, and reduced pain and anxiety, too.

Massage offers many alternatives to drugs, and different massages can help target varying symptoms.

What Types of Massage Are Used to Relieve Pain?

Massage of all types have been used to relieve pain, including:

• Deep tissue
• Swedish
• Shiatsu
• Massage
• Heat therapy massage
• Hot stone massage
• Thai

Heat massage is especially beneficial for tight muscles, swelling and inflammation.

Best Massage Chairs for Pain Management

Massage offers many essential health benefits and can be used as a drug alternative. However, it's crucial to choose the right massage chair. The following chairs are our top choice for choosing massage as a drug alternative:

Super Novo

Super Novo is our premier chair with a Virtual Therapist™ built-in so that you can use Alexa devices to control the chair using just your voice. The chair aims to redefine the massage experience with advanced features, such as:

• Heat on and off options
• Auto programs
• Recline position adjustments
• S- and L-track massage to target from your shoulders to thighs
• Full remote control function
• Ankle and calf massage
• More

Super Novo is designed to cradle the body, reduce strain on the back and massage tension away.

Click here to buy the Super Novo.

Certus Massage Chair

Certus offers three-dimensional massage, with state-of-the-art massage features that dynamically stretch your body, muscles and back. Advanced multi-dimensional massage is offered through key features, which include:

• 11 built-in wellness programs
• Zero gravity seating
• L- and S-track massage
• Dual lumbar and calf heat
• Extending calf and foot massager
• 0.2" rear clearance

Certus is one of our leading compact massage chairs, with just 0.2" of clearance needed between the wall and the chair to fully recline. If you're looking for a chair for smaller spaces, Certus is an excellent option.

Click here to learn more about the Certus.

Gravis ZG Chair

Gravis is the final chair on our list, offering a conveniently located remote control that you can use to gently move you into the zero-gravity position while you sit. The Gravis utilizes Air Massage technology to soothe your entire body and boasts key features, including:

• Multiple heat zones
• Power-adjustable headrest, backrest, and footrest
• Smart Sitting options that nudge you to move if you’ve been in the same position for too long
• Much more

If you're interested in the Gravis and want to learn more about its features, click on the link below.

Click here to view the Gravis ZG Chair.

Massage offers therapeutic alternatives to drugs that help reduce or eliminate pain, improve quality of life and do it without demanding users take even more harmful, addicting painkillers. If you're suffering from pain, try a massage chair as one of your alternative activities to drugs.

If you're like most people, you're spending more time at home. Working from home has led to many long workdays followed by stiff backs, aches and pains. The average American adult sits for over 6 hours a day, and some reports put this duration at over 8 hours.

Relieving aches and pains is as simple as using the best compact massage chair to melt away stress and tension.

What is a Compact Massage Chair and How Does it Work?

Compact massage chairs are still robust, but these models are designed to fit in smaller spaces. Since some of these chairs put a user into zero gravity, they may also need a fair amount of space to recline.

These chairs work similarly to others, and they're designed to do a few things:

• Fit comfortably in small spaces
• Cradle the user
• Massage the back and spine

Every chair works slightly differently, but key features often include:

• Reclining system that allows users to sit back into multiple positions or zero gravity.
• Rollers that move up and down the spine, using tracks, to massage back muscles effectively.
• Air compression or other systems to massage your feet and calves.
• Fingertip controls that allow you to sit back and comfortably control the chair's features.

Your chair may include S- or L-track technology to follow the contours of your spine and massage away tension and tight muscles.

What To Consider When Choosing a Compact Chair?

If you want the best massage compact massage chair for your space, a few things to look for when making your purchase are:

• Rear space requirements or wall space requirements. The less space required, the better for smaller areas.
• Height requirements. Every chair is different, and if you're smaller than 5'0" or taller than 6'2," you'll find to pay very close attention to the chair's maximum dimension recommendations.
• How many massage modes are included? Auto programs offer robust massage options, so find an auto program that you're comfortable with. Ideally, there will be at least three massage programs available.

You'll also want to consider the full recline dimensions to know how much total space you'll need for your chair. We recommend measuring your room to ensure that the chair you choose can fully recline without hitting the wall.

Benefits Of Compact Chairs

Owning a massage chair offers you a professional massage in the comfort of your own home. When you choose a compact chair, these models provide a smaller overall size, so they fit well in apartments, studios or smaller rooms and offices.

You'll also benefit from:

• Robust massages
• Stress and tension relief
• Reduction in aches and pains
• So much more

Best Overall: iJOY® Total Massage

iJOY® is our choice for the best overall chair we offer, but you need 11" of wall space to recline in this chair confidently. However, even when fully reclined, the dimensions are just 61 "L x 30 "W x 34 "H, making this chair compact yet extremely robust.

This model is designed to fit people between 5'0" and 6'0," and it provides a vigorous massage, too. A few of this model's leading features are:

• • S-track to follow and massage the curve of the spine
  • Foot and calf massage
  • Three auto massage programs
  • Air cell massage technology for a full body massage
  • Four main massage techniques
  • FlexGlide 360 massages for a natural massage experience

Click here to learn more about the iJOY® Total Massage.

Best for Clearance: Certus

Our Certus massage chair is kind of a big deal. While most chairs require several inches of clearance to recline properly, Certus requires just 0.2" of wall clearance. For small spaces, this is one of the only massage chairs in the world that may work for you.

And to top it off, this chair can confidently fit people between 5'0" and 6'9".

We classify the Certus as a chair that offers a vigorous massage, and it's a feature-rich model offering:

• • • 11 built-in wellness programs
    • Lumbar and calf heat options
    • Zero gravity seating position
    • S- and L-track massage
    • Foot and calf massage
    • Built-in, premium sound system

If you're looking for the best chair for clearance, look no further than Certus.

Click here to learn more about the Certus.

Best for Versatility: WholeBody® 5.1

Finally, the last model on our list is the WholeBody® 5.1 compact massage chair recliner. Featuring bone or black color options, this model offers a moderate massage intensity and is designed for people between 5'0" and 6'2."

This chair offers:

• • • • 55° swivel base
      • Ottoman with foot and calf massager
      • Dual motor to power an intense back massage
      • Three massage programs
      • Targeted massage

After a long day of work or a rigorous workout, sit down in this chair, retract the ottoman and enjoy a calf and foot massage in pure bliss. And with three auto massage programs, you'll enjoy a full body massage in the comfort of your own home.

If you're searching for versatility, this is the chair for you.

Why?

A swivel base allows you to swivel the chair easily. If you're in a smaller space, the option to swivel enables you to talk to others and get more overall function out of your chair.

Click here to experience the WholeBody® 5.1 compact massage chair for yourself.

Final Verdict

You'll find more than enough options for a compact massage chair that will fit into your budget. All of these chairs offer comfort, functionality and have a small footprint that makes them ideal for smaller spaces.