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Best electric massage chairs and recliners sofa for pain relief - Buying Guide: 2024

We've put together the best buying guide so you know all the tips and tricks to consider when choosing an electric massage chair. You will find a detailed review that will not only help you save money, but also help you get the massager that best suits you.

Don't waste any more time searching on the internet. Below you will find a simple overview of what types of massage chairs and recliners are available and which solution suits you best. We'll also go over the benefits and advantages of massage therapy and answer the questions you should ask yourself before buying your next electric massage chair.

What is the best massage chairs and recliners sofa for pain relief?

iRest - Zero Gravity Full Body Massage Chair
  • Dimensions: 118x76x170cm - 46.4x29.9x66.9in
  • Colors: Black, Brown
  • Massage Type: Shiatsu
  • Chair Type: Zero Gravity, Heat Effect
  • Pack: Bluetooth, wired remote control
  • Optimized heat therapy
  • Foot and calf massage
  • Automatic body scanning system
  • 6 massage modes
  • Wired control
  • Delicate wash
The distance and path of the rollers and rails of the iRest massage chair form a unique relaxation product to relieve stress and decrease tension in the back and leg muscles. It is designed with high quality and resistant materials that allow a zero-gravity recline, which serves to achieve emotional balance. In addition, you can accompany the massages with music when you connect your phone via Bluetooth.

Automatic body scanning ensures that the air bags and rollers are precisely adapted to the spine, so Shiatsu massages in the form of SL, vibration and compression will have better results. You can also include thermotherapy to promote cardiac pressure and blood circulation. Although it has a space-saving design, its volume is still large for use in some environments.

Real Relax - Massage chair with air compression and heat therapy
  • Dimensions: 160x76,2x137cm - 63x30x54in
  • Colors: Blue, Brown, Black
  • Massage Type: Vibration, Air Compression
  • Chair Type: Zero Gravity
  • Pack: Chair, Remote
  • Optimized heat therapy
  • Different vibration modes
  • Automatic shut-off function
  • Overheating protection
  • Non-wireless control
  • Complicated cleaning
Improve your lifestyle and enjoy all your daily activities in a relaxed way, for this we recommend the use of the Real Relax massage chair. You can use it every day in your living room or in the office, but keep in mind that the duration of the therapy should not exceed 30 minutes. If you do not want to control this time, do not worry, because it has an automatic shut-off system so that the massage experience generates maximum benefits.

The 50 strategically distributed air bags will give you the comfort you are looking for by simply pressing the functions from its intuitive control. The footrests are extendable to achieve the zero-gravity position and stimulate blood circulation in the legs and back. You can also combine Shiatsu massage with heating, although the heat intensity may be moderate for some users.

SMAGREHO - Shiatsu zero gravity electric massage chair
  • Sizes: Not specified
  • Colors: Brown, Black
  • Massage Type: Shiatsu
  • Type of Chair: Zero Gravity, Heat Effect
  • Pack: Bluetooth, Speakers
  • Full body massage
  • Extendable footrest with low back heater
  • Does not specify measurements
Place the SMAGREHO massage chair in zero gravity position and accompany the heating therapy with music via Bluetooth. You won't need anything else to relax your body, improve blood circulation and relieve aches and pains from muscle tensions. You can use it for a full body message or choose a specific area and reach deep myofascial release tissues.

don't wait any longer! You will have your own masseuse at home by simply combining the functions of the 8 rollers on the backrest and choosing the level of kneading, percussion or Shiatsu you want. Remember, the air pockets and body scanning sensors will help you generate compression and reduce stress quickly. It is covered with high quality leather and cushions that cover the lumbar and cervical area, although they may be uncomfortable for some users.

SMAGREHO - Reclining chair with zero gravity and air pressure
  • Size: 116x76x145cm - 46x30x57x57in
  • Colors: Blue, Brown, Black
  • Massage Type: Shiatsu
  • Chair Type: Zero Gravity
  • Pack: Bluetooth, Speakers
  • Bluetooth music player
  • Overheating protection
  • Quality materials
  • 6 massage modes with 3 levels of intensity
  • Too soft for some people
  • Complicated cleaning
The compression massages that you will receive by means of the air bags of the SMAGREHO electric chair on the whole body will generate a feeling of well-being by reducing stress. Thanks to its extendable footrest system, you can use the foot rollers to eliminate the feeling of fatigue and improve the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. But that's not all, you can also choose thermotherapy to relieve tension in the back and neck.

The scanning sensors will detect height, spine length and shoulder width to combine Shiatsu, percussion and vibration massages. You just need to sit down and pick up the control unit to operate the different intensity levels and combine them with heat therapy. It is covered with good quality eco-leather and its built-in wheels allow for easy portability. The Bluetooth connection may be weak in some cases.

OWAYS - Full Body Shiatsu Massage Recliner Chair with Automatic Body Detection
  • Dimensions: 132x86.3x124.4cm - 52x34x49in
  • Colors: Gray, Black
  • Massage Type: Shiatsu
  • Chair Type: Zero Gravity, Heat Effect
  • Pack: Bluetooth
  • Intelligent body scanning
  • Different massage modes
  • Complicated cleaning
Massage points and intensity range can be quickly and easily customized thanks to the Ugears electric massage chair's readable control unit. It is designed to offer an SL massage system, which helps to relax the whole body and improve muscle stretching. It is possible to combine Shiatsu massage, vibration, kneading and percussion.

If you want to increase the therapy experience, recline the chair to the zero gravity position. This will help the blood to circulate better and help the heart to have a normal rhythm. Its design includes foot rests and air pockets that compress the region for myofascial release. Use any level of intensity and combine with heat therapy, but be aware that its volume may be uncomfortable in small spaces.

BestMassage - Full Body Shiatsu Massage Reclining Massager Chair
  • Dimensions: 139x106x88,9cm - 55x42x35in
  • Colors: Black
  • Massage Type: Shiatsu
  • Chair Type: Zero Gravity, Heat Effect
  • Pack: Chair
  • Easy and simple to use
  • Relieves tension in various areas
  • Finishes could be improved
Experience a feeling of complete relaxation and reduced stress by using the BestMassage Shiatsu leather massage chair on a daily basis. The massage system with 21 air pockets distributed for the whole body stimulates vasodilation of the muscles, which favors the reduction of fatigue and anxiety symptoms. It is designed with skin-friendly material and its appearance matches any type of decoration.

You can coordinate, from its wide screen command, the 6 available programs to deliver massages to the body in the form of SL. This will make the rollers act perfectly on all deep tissues to achieve fascia release. Note that you can add thermotherapy on the back to relieve muscle stiffness, but for some cases the temperature may be insufficient.

MYNT - Electric Recliner Chair for Thai Full Body massage
  • Dimensions: 129x116.8x71.1cm - 51x46x28in
  • Colors: Black
  • Massage Type: Shiatsu
  • Chair Type: Zero Gravity, Heat Effect
  • Pack: Wired remote control
  • 7 automatic massage programs
  • Zero gravity recliner with 3D massage rollers
  • Wired remote control
With seven automatic massage programs of the Mynt chair, you will relax the body, decrease stress and improve blood circulation within minutes. This is due to the functional structure of 32 air pockets that act to soothe pain through deep relaxation and compression therapy. Choose thermotherapy to improve blood vessel dilation and eliminate toxins from the fibers.

The 3D massage rollers, together with the zero gravity position, will achieve an overall sense of well-being and fill your body with energy. You just need to sit down and choose the functions from the control unit to perform the body scan and make the rollers act on the spine and muscle contours. You can choose Shiatsu massage, kneading and percussion, but be aware that the intensity can be very powerful at maximum levels.

Real Relax - Zero Gravity Shiatsu Massage Recliner Chair
  • Dimensions: 145x72,8x110,9cm - 57,4x28,7x43,7in
  • Colors: Beige, Brown
  • Massage Type: Shiatsu
  • Chair Type: Zero Gravity
  • Pack: Bluetooth Speaker
  • Body scanning technology
  • Full-body airbag massage
  • Provides optimal massage
  • Easy to clean device
  • Noisier massage than other models
  • Too intense for some people
The technology used in the body scanning of the Real Relax relaxation massage chair allows to align the rails, rollers and air bags so that the motors act directly on the deep tissue. Thanks to this action you will be able to keep your body relaxed from your home or office. All you need to do is sit down and choose the type of massage, which can be percussion, Shiatsu or kneading.

It is developed with the highest quality to achieve zero gravity and distribute the benefits of massage in an S-shape. In addition, its ecological material is breathable and skin-friendly, which helps to improve comfort during massage therapy. If you want to listen to music, no problem because you can connect your cell phone via Bluetooth to play your songs from the integrated speakers. Its design is intended for people of average weight.

Osaki - Massage chair with lower back heat therapy
  • Dimensions: 132x78,7x86,3cm - 52x31x34x34in
  • Colors: Brown
  • Massage Type: Shiatsu
  • Chair Type: Zero Gravity
  • Pack: Wireless remote control
  • Calf and foot massage
  • Lower back heat therapy
  • Includes wireless remote control
  • Overheat protection
  • Too gentle for some people
  • Few massage modes
Real Relax - Full body Shiatsu massage reclining chair
  • Dimensions: 127x106x73,6cm - 50x42x29in
  • Colors: Blue, Brown
  • Massage Type: Shiatsu
  • Chair Type: Zero Gravity
  • Pack: Chair, Remote Control, Bluetooth
  • Auto BodyScan with heating function
  • Zero gravity design
  • Complicated cleaning
All the functions of the Real Relax professional massage chair can be operated from its readable and intuitive control unit. Thanks to this benefit you will get the massager technology to scan your body to apply the Shiatsu massage just in the areas where you need it most. Its eco-leather material allows efficient transmission of the massage in the form of S and SL, so that the blood circulation will improve immediately.

Connect your cell phone with Bluetooth and listen to your favorite music through the integrated speakers. You can combine this with the heating function for stress-relieving foot massages. Don't waste any more time and choose safe products. Please note that, in some cases, the back rollers stopped working because they exceeded the recommended time limit of use.

Video: How to use massage chairs and recliners sofa?

Types of massage machine products you need to know about

Tips for buying the best electric massage chair

Buying the best electric massage chair is not an easy task, as there are a variety of products with different features to help you achieve unique relaxation benefits. For this reason, we present below a buying guide that will show you all the available options that you should consider when choosing your massage chair.

Pay attention to each and every point:

Material

The material that the chairs are made of depends on the segment they belong to. In other words: If you want a high-quality electric massager, you will get a product that is covered with genuine leather. However, as the power decreases, the material becomes artificial leather and polyester fabric mixed with cotton. Most importantly, these materials are non-slip and skin-friendly.

Shape and size

The shape of electric massage chairs varies depending on the area of the body they protect. You can find massagers that extend from the head (for color therapy) to the soles of the feet, and others that cover only the back to the knees. All of them are equipped with wheels to facilitate transportation, while the more expensive models have a rotating base.

In terms of size, you should keep in mind that most massage chairs have a large volume. This means that it is not easy to use them in small environments, since their dimensions must not only cover the user's body, but also contain all the electronics needed to operate the menu options. Some can be stored folded against the wall to save space.

Performance

This factor measures how many times per minute the motors, located on the back and other strategic areas, work to loosen the knots in the body and improve blood circulation. The most effective electric massage chairs are those whose motors have a speed of 3500-3700 revolutions per minute. However, note that the maximum power is not always beneficial to health, as this depends on each user and the area to be massaged.

Type of connection

Massage chairs are electrically powered, as they require a power supply that must be connected to the home network. There are also models that can be charged through a 12 V connection, but you should know that these are smaller and are used to be placed on the car seat or on the chair at home.

As the quality of the massager increases, it is possible to find Bluetooth connectivity to pair your phone or tablet with the chair, so you can send the sound of your device through the built-in speakers. Another option you have is to find USB ports to charge your phone's battery during the massage session.

Types of massage

Thanks to the different functions and friction tools available in an electric recliner, you can enjoy the following types of massages:

  • Stretching and stretching: This technique is used to stimulate the synovial fluid in the joints by gently stretching the body parts in a controlled manner.
  • Kneading: This is the most common massage used in electric relaxation chairs, as it rubs the knots in the muscles to relax the tension in the structure. Thanks to this, it is possible to shorten the recovery time from injuries.
  • Vibration or percussion: This is done through a variety of gentle, repetitive movements. It is ideal for relieving stress and improving blood circulation.
  • Rolling: This massage is applied to the back and neck area in a circular motion to stimulate the elimination of toxins.
  • Shiatsu massages: This Japanese technique uses acupressure to stimulate trigger balls to release toxins that have accumulated in the tissues. This massage most closely resembles that of a physical therapist.
  • Therapeutic compression: In an electric massage chair, not only do you receive stimulation through stroking or kneading, but it is also possible to position the body to receive controlled pressure on legs, arms and other areas. This leads to a rapid improvement of injuries and a reduction in stiffness.
  • Techniques of tapping: This type of massage is used for small areas where it stimulates the dilation of blood vessels to relieve pain and improve joint range of motion. Gentle, controlled massage is used.
  • Heat therapy: Although not a massage in the strict sense, this complementary treatment, which uses heat to reduce muscle stiffness and reduce joint inflammation, should not be ignored. This technique is combined with all the massages mentioned above.

Massage zones

The easiest thing to say in this regard is that the massage zones that you can relax with an electric vibration chair are all present. This means that not only do you have the option to relieve tension in the neck, shoulder and back muscles, but you can also massage the legs, calves and soles of the feet. In addition, some top models are equipped with a hood for the application of color therapy. With the help of this hood it is possible to achieve emotional balance.

Heat effect

By choosing a good electric massage chair, you can relax your muscles through various types of massage, but if you combine massage therapy with heat therapy, the results will be even better. Some models of vibration chairs include heating pads or warm air ventilation system , which promotes the relaxation of legs, hips, lumbar and cervical vertebrae.

Remote control

To operate the electric massage chair, you can choose models with a built-in remote control, some with a touch screen or a wireless remote control (this can also be connected via a cable). With this tool, you can select all available functions during the massage session, without having to ask another person for help. The most important feature to highlight in this aspect is that the control unit should be easy to use, easy to read and large.

Price

The functions included in the relaxation chair, the quality of the materials and the design are crucial in determining different price ranges so that everyone can have an electric massage chair at home.

It is possible to divide the prices into three price categories:

  • Not very expensive: In this group you can find electric massage chairs that have limited functions, but this does not mean that they do not fulfill the goal of relaxation and stimulation of blood circulation. You can find massage chairs for cars and offices, but also less bulky relaxation chairs. In the latter, you can benefit from separate footrests, shape adjustment functions, integrated rollers for moving, sectoral nodes and massage rollers. Another feature is the user-friendly control unit, which can be wired or wireless. The price can go up to 1500 $.
  • Standard: The price ranges from 1500 $ to 2500 $. These models have an intermediate size, where you can find advanced features such as gravity zeroing and heating pads for heat therapy. They have a scanning unit for specific parts of the body, which allows you to get better results in the back and neck area. They have built-in airbags, footrests and automatic knots, and can be operated via a wireless control with a touch screen. Massage shapes are either L or S, although some models include both options. Arm clamps are available for tapping massages.
  • Premium: These are the most comfortable models. This range includes massagers with multiple levels of weightlessness and devices with lighting that can relax the mind through color therapy. Its size is bulky, as it has a hood that covers the head and a sleeve that hugs the calves and foot. Among its most salient features are the possibility of using aromatherapy, sensors for scanning the body, a large number of air pockets and heating pads. They are covered with a skin-friendly material, and in L, S and LS shapes, all kinds of massages are possible. They have Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports and built-in speakers.

Types of massage chairs and reclining sofas

There are different types of electric massage chairs and reclining sofas that you can get to relax your whole body. Take a look at the models available below:

Portable

Portable massage chairs have a small volume that allows them to have a limited weight, so they can be easily moved between office, car and home. Their design covers the back and some models include nodes in the neck area, although these are the least common. They are equipped with massage cushions that easily adapt to the body and contain heat for relaxation therapy.

You can perform deep or soft massages and choose between different levels of percussion, shiatsu, kneading and rolling movements. They can be powered by batteries, a 12-volt connection, or a mains power supply.

Tilting sofas

Electric tilting sofas are one of the most comprehensive products in the field of relaxation therapy. This is because they include various functions that help to better dilate capillaries to eliminate toxins and relieve stress. They are equipped with head and foot rests, achieving a tilt that allows maximum relaxation of the entire body.

They are designed to facilitate the kneading of tense areas with the help of knots and different types of massage. They have a USB port, Bluetooth and built-in controls that can be used during therapy. Air pockets and body sensing sensors provide an ideal setting for relaxation. Their volume and weight should be considered when purchasing, although wheels are included for transport.

Zero Gravity

Zero gravity or weightlessness is the sensation you feel in your body when the position of the electric massage chair raises your knee above the level of your heart. This creates a great feeling of well-being and promotes relaxation through blood circulation. There are models that allow you to achieve up to three levels of weightlessness, which can be easily adjusted to suit each user. It is important to note that this feature is included in the most expensive electric massage chairs.

Car seat massager

Not only can you use an electric massager in your living room, but you can also place a massage chair on the seat of your car so you can relax while driving. There are a variety of products that vary in function and external design, so that they fit perfectly with the aesthetics of your car.

You can choose between shiatsu, vibration and rolling massage for the back, neck and legs. They are charged through a 12 V connection and have a remote control where you can choose the desired intensity and speed. It is possible to combine heat therapy through strategically placed pillows in the lumbar and back areas. They are non-slip and safe when driving.

Office chairs

Office chairs are similar to massage chairs for cars in that they have a similar size and design, so they can be easily integrated into any chair in the workplace. You can choose between a rechargeable battery system or a power connection to operate the different levels of intensity and depth of massage. They are suitable for acupressure and massage therapy, as the rollers stimulate vasodilation.

Some models are heated and have headrests, but the most important thing is the angle of the backrest and the inclination of the seat to get an ideal support that absorbs the vibrations. You can find massagers with motors for the back, thighs, waist and buttocks, but office massage seats for the neck and shoulders are also a good choice.

Heat therapy

Massage chairs and reclining sofas can have cushions with heat gels that generate the heat needed to relax the muscles in the back and any other area of the body. There are also models available where the heat is generated by a hot air system that relaxes the lower back, calves and feet. All models are equipped with an automatic shut-off. Massagers with integrated heat therapy function usually have a slightly higher price than others.

Low prices

Cheap electric massage chairs are characterized by the relaxation functions you need for your back and legs, which reduce muscle tension and improve blood circulation. These products are ideal for people who do not have much space in their living room and need a relaxing massage before going to sleep.

Advantages and benefits of massage therapy

Relaxing massage therapy offers the following advantages and benefits:

  • Reduces pain: Tense muscles start to loosen up when they are massaged by kneading and vibrating. This allows capillaries to expand better and contributes to oxygenation.
  • It is ideal for reducing arthritic pain: People suffering from this degenerative joint disease can fight the symptoms by gentle massages that stimulate the elimination of toxic substances from the joint cavity.
  • It is used as a method to prevent migraines: Headaches can be easily reduced by applying relaxation therapy to the shoulders, neck and back. This relieves the tissues surrounding the nerves and prevents migraines.
  • Reduces sciatic pain: Sciatica pain can also benefit from loosening the walls covering the nerve by massaging and stretching the surrounding muscles.
  • Eliminates knots in the neck: Muscle strains due to lack of strength or a cold cause painful knots in the neck. These knots can be eliminated by vibrating and rolling massages that stimulate the removal of toxins.
  • Improves blood circulation: Dilating the capillaries helps the venules and arterioles decompress the connective tissue, which promotes better blood circulation.
  • It has a relaxing effect: Massage reduces symptoms of exhaustion and anxiety, as tissue fibers are better oxygenated, generating more energy.
  • It contributes to a better night's sleep: Relaxation not only reduces stress, but also improves other important aspects of health. For example, massage stimulates endorphins and oxytocin, which helps produce deep sleep at night.
  • The posture of the body is improved: Relaxation therapy with electric massage chairs promotes stretching and strengthening of muscles, which leads to better posture.
  • Helps recover faster from injuries: The oxygen stimulation and nutrient exchange that takes place during relaxation massage removes toxic substances stored in the fibers. This allows muscle injuries to recover more quickly.
  • The absorption of insulin is improved: Diabetics are advised to use relaxation massages to make injections more effective by improving the body's absorption of insulin.

F.A.Q: Frequently asked questions

How to use a massage chair properly?

Using a massage chair properly is not difficult, as all you need to do is place the electric relaxation chair near an electrical outlet. Do not forget to use the built-in wheels to facilitate transportation.

It is important that you are familiar with all the functions and the menu of the control unit to avoid accidents while sitting in the chair. Therefore, try every level of speed and intensity of the massage. This will help you avoid bruises and injuries to body tissues.

After that, you should sit down as comfortably as possible to relax your body. When you are ready, start with low levels of massage intensity and depth. After 2 minutes, increase the frequency until you reach progressive muscle relaxation, keep doing this step for at least 15 minutes.

Finally, reduce the frequency again for 60 seconds and turn off the massager. Remember that you can use the automatic shut-off time and that if your model includes foot massages, you must remove your shoes to achieve the best therapeutic results.

Do relaxing massage sofas really work?

Relaxing massage sofas are effective in stimulating circulation and reducing pain in the back, neck, shoulders, legs and other areas. However, it is important that you do not exceed the session limit for each massage and use the features gradually to avoid further injury.

Are there any side effects or contraindications?

In general, there are no side effects or contraindications to using a relaxing massage sofa. However, it is important that you consult your doctor before any additional treatment. Also, you should read the instructions carefully to know exactly what the massager does. In this way, accidental bruises can be avoided.

Can pregnant women use a massage chair?

The use of an electric massage chair is not recommended for pregnant women in the first trimester, while in the rest of the gestation period a low-intensity relaxation sofa can be used. In any case, however, it is important to consult a health professional to avoid any kind of discomfort.

How long is the use of an electric massage chair recommended?

The recommended duration for using an electric massage chair is 15 to 20 minutes per session, although this may change depending on the user's needs and medical recommendations. Remember that many models have an automatic shut-off function that exceeds this time and allows for better therapeutic results.

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