Massage chair recliners are designed to provide relief from muscle tension and soreness, but they can sometimes cause soreness themselves.
Recliner massage chairs use mechanical forces to manipulate the muscles, similar to manual massage therapy. According to a study from Harvard University, mechanical loading (ML) can clear immune cells called neutrophils out of severely injured muscle tissue, enhancing the process of muscle fiber regeneration. This process can be beneficial for healing but may also cause temporary soreness as it involves the manipulation of muscle tissues.
Soreness after using a full body zero gravity massage chair can also be attributed to underlying health issues such as dehydration or a herniated disk in the back. It's crucial to consult with a physician if there are any health concerns before using a massage chair.
The intensity and frequency of massage sessions play a significant role in whether a person experiences soreness. Pushing too hard or using the massage chair for extended periods without giving the body time to recover can lead to muscle soreness. It's advised to ease into deep tissue massage and give the body time to adjust, especially if you have a chronic injury.
Staying hydrated is essential when using a massage chair. Water helps cells stay hydrated and remove inflammation, which can be the cause of the sore feeling in muscles. It's recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, with a glass before and after the massage session.
Just like a workout routine, warming up the muscles with light stretching or a relaxation massage can help prevent soreness. Modern heating massage chairs often include heat therapy, which is recommended for 5 minutes before starting to relax tense muscles.
Excessive use of massage chairs can lead to more harm than good, especially for those who have been inactive before use. It's important to honor the body's process for repair and not overuse the massage chair, as this can lead to discomfort and potential damage to muscles or the back.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that muscle soreness is a common adverse event associated with massage therapy. This suggests that it's not uncommon to experience some level of soreness after a massage, including those delivered by massage chairs.
While chair with heat and massage can be beneficial for relieving muscle tension and improving overall body health, they can also cause soreness if used improperly. It's essential to use them in moderation, stay hydrated, warm up muscles before use, and consult with a healthcare professional if there are any underlying health issues. By following these guidelines, the benefits of massage chairs can be maximized while minimizing the risk of soreness.
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