How Often Should You Get a Massage?

A daily massage sounds nice. If you want to relieve stress and anxiety, which is something most people deal with, get a massage.

But how much of a good thing is too much? How often should you get a massage?

We're going to explore:

• How much massage is too much – if any
• Types of massages
• Benefits of massages

How Often Should You Get a Massage? What Studies Have to Say

Many studies exist on the benefits of massage, but few examine the frequency of massage and if it’s potentially detrimental to your health. What we do have are two studies that do shed “some” light on the topic:

2014 Study: Adverse Events of Massage Therapy in Pain-Related Conditions: A Systematic Review

Adverse events were the main focus of this study, which wanted to identify whether massage may have adverse effects when used for pain-related benefits. The study examined over 40 reports over a period of 11 years and found that:

• There were few serious adverse side effects
• Primary side effects were associated with spinal manipulation, but it’s very uncommon

If you’re going to a massage therapist, the researchers behind the review recommend that you ensure the practitioner has adequate training to minimize risks.

2012 Study: A Preliminary Study of the Effects of Repeated Massage on Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Adrenal and Immune Function in Healthy Individuals: A Study of Mechanisms of Action and Dosage

Weekly or daily massage is often performed for very specific reasons, such as supporting immune function. This study compared Swedish massage over a 5-week period to identify markers in the participants and analyze them, such as:

• Oxytocin
• Cortisol
• Cytokines
• Many others

Participants underwent 45-minute massage sessions, with one group having a weekly massage and the other a bi-weekly massage. Interestingly, the study was inconclusive because it found that the once-a-week group experienced:

• Minimal HPA function effects
• A decrease in cytokine production
• An increase in certain phenotypic lymphocyte markers

Neuroendocrine differences were noted in the twice-a-week group. What the researchers suggest is that “dosage,” or in this case, frequency, must be examined further to find the right amount of massage for your unique needs.

Benefits of Certain Types of Massage and Frequency Recommendations

If you use massage for pain, your usage may differ from that of someone who wants to experience lymphatic drainage benefits. For example, you’ll want to adjust your massage frequency based on massage type.

What does this mean?

A general recommendation for how often to get a massage is listed below:

• Deep tissue: A common option for people in pain is to have a deep tissue massage performed. These massages will perform slow, powerful strokes to target muscles, tissue and other “deeper” areas where pain may exist. If you have injuries, this may be a good massage for you. Daily massage on low intensity may work best, but you can lower the frequency to weekly or bi-weekly for maintenance.
• Lymphatic: Lymph node drainage is common for certain medical conditions or after a person has surgery. Frequency may start at daily recommendations and taper off to two times per week.
• Full body: Swedish massages or full body massages are best when necessary or every week or two. Often, you won’t need an intense full-body massage unless you’re recovering from injuries or trying to decrease recovery time as an athlete or bodybuilder.
• Pain: If you have pain, massage frequency is often daily or every other day. You want to be very cautious of the intensity of the massage and listen to your body. If the massage increases pain, lower frequency and intensity.

Massage is known for helping people reduce pain and stress, relieve muscle tension and lower high blood pressure. If you add in heat therapy (many of our chairs have heat settings), the benefits may be even more prominent.

Note: If you suffer from any medical conditions or are pregnant, be sure to consult with your doctor before getting a massage.

How Often Should You Use a Massage Chair?

You can use your massage chair daily, but we recommend that you keep the intensity low. High-intensity massage may not be the best option for daily use. Start at the lowest intensity and find what works for you.

For most people, a massage once or twice a week will more than suffice.

One study found that 20 minutes in a massage chair is sufficient.

If you don’t have a massage chair yet, we have quite a few models that are perfect for you:

• Super Novo X Massage Chair: Our newest chair, the Super Novo X, has teardrop doors for easy entry, foot and calf massage functions, S- and L-track systems and 39 unique programs to provide you with a one-of-a-kind massage. Acupressure and a built-in fully-body stretch will make you feel like you’re lying on a cloud during the entire massage.
• Super Novo 2.0 Massage Chair: The Super Novo 2.0 offers dual-lumbar heat, memory settings, 3D and 4D massage power and 38 auto-wellness programs that take the guesswork out of your massage.
• Gravis ZG Chair: Our ZG model offers a sleek look that makes it perfect in any office space or high-end home. You’ll enjoy the chair’s multiple heat zones, targeted massages and adjustable features.

Don't know what to look for in a massage chair or want to explore more options? Be sure to visit our massage chair page for more options.

Are massages good for you?

They can be. If you listen to your body, a daily massage may be exactly what you need to feel your best.

You can try a massage once or twice a week and increase or decrease your frequency to find the right frequency for you. If you find that you’re especially sore or the massage isn’t providing the benefits you had hoped for, experiment to find your sweet spot.