If you're new to full-body deep tissue massage, it's best to start with 10-15 minute sessions, two or three times a day. Each masseuse will have their own routine for a standard massage and each massage client will have different health needs. Or maybe you're looking for a regular massage to help manage stress and anxiety. If you use the chair too much or get a massage that is too intense for the first session, you could end up with more severe muscle pain than before using the chair.
Some health problems mean that massage is contraindicated and your therapist can work with you to determine the best next step. Massage chairs are great for those who lead busy lifestyles and don't always have time to schedule a massage. You can gradually increase the intensity of the massage as your body gets used to it. Full-body massage chairs usually have preset programs designed to lightly massage the back, neck, shoulders, arms and legs.
The massage movements may become a little firmer and the masseur will notice areas where he will focus, such as knots or stiffness in the upper back, shoulders, along the spine, or in the lower back, along the upper part of the hip bones. As with any type of therapeutic bodywork, each seated massage session will be personalized for whoever is sitting in the chair. Using them more frequently or for longer periods can have the opposite effect, causing more harm than good. Your therapist can help you come up with a massage treatment plan that takes into account your overall health and will help you manage your chronic pain conditions, if you have them. The powerful massage rollers found in top-notch massage chairs can leave bruises if you sit in the chair for too long before your body is ready for it.
Therefore, it's best to start with shorter sessions during the first few weeks of using the new chair. Your massage therapist will have resolved some smaller problem areas and may be starting to focus on larger knots or areas of tension.
