Six Common Misconceptions about Massage

Massage chairs, as convenient household massage tools, are gradually entering people's lives. However, in the process of using them, many people easily fall into some misunderstandings due to a lack of understanding of their functions and principles. Here are several common misunderstandings about massage chair massages:

Misconception 1: The stronger the massage intensity, the better the effect

Explanation: The intensity of a massage chair needs to match an individual's tolerance, and stronger intensity does not mean better results. Excessively strong massage may cause damage to muscle fibers and subcutaneous bleeding, especially for the elderly, children, or those with weak muscles, and may even lead to joint dislocation or ligament strain.

Correct approach: Start with low intensity and gradually adjust to a gear that feels comfortable for the body, with the standard being "muscles are relaxed without soreness after massage".

Misconception 2: The longer the daily massage, the more it can relieve fatigue

Explanation: Massage chairs stimulate acupoints and muscles through mechanical rollers and airbag squeezing, which is a form of passive exercise. A single massage session that is too long (more than 30 minutes) will cause muscles to remain in a tense state, which instead aggravates fatigue and may even cause local edema.

Correct approach: Each massage should last 15-20 minutes, 1-2 times a day is sufficient, and avoid prolonged continuous use.

Misconception 3: Everyone is suitable for using a massage chair

Explanation: The mechanical force of massage chairs may pose risks to certain groups of people:

Pregnant women (especially abdominal massage may stimulate the uterus);

Patients with fractures or joint dislocations in the acute phase (may aggravate injuries);

Patients with hypertension or heart disease (vigorous massage may cause blood pressure fluctuations);

Patients with skin damage or tumors (avoid stimulating the affected area).

Correct approach: Special groups should consult a doctor before using it, and choose modes with adjustable parts (such as avoiding the waist and neck).

Misconception 4: Massage chairs can replace professional physical therapy

Explanation: Massage chairs mainly perform relaxing massages through preset programs, targeting ordinary muscle fatigue; while professional physical therapy requires precise force application, angle, and intensity adjustment according to individual conditions (such as lumbar disc herniation, frozen shoulder).

Correct approach: Massage chairs are only used as daily relaxation tools. If there is obvious pain or pathological changes, priority should be given to professional treatment, and one should not rely on massage chairs to relieve symptoms.

Misconception 5: A newly bought massage chair does not need maintenance, and can be repaired when it breaks down

Explanation: The mechanical components of massage chairs (such as roller tracks, airbag motors) will accumulate dust and aging lubricating oil after long-term use. If not maintained, abnormal noises and jams are likely to occur, shortening the service life.

Correct approach: Regularly wipe the surface with a dry cloth, check the track for foreign objects every month, and ask professionals to maintain the motor and transmission components every year (especially for high-end models).

Misconception 6: The "more functions a massage chair has, the better the effect"

Explanation: Some functions advertised by massage chairs, such as "8D massage" and "full-body airbag wrapping", may become a burden if they do not meet individual needs (such as excessive wrapping causing chest tightness). For example, office workers need more focused massage on the neck and waist, while a massage chair with complicated functions may waste strength on non-key parts.

Correct approach: Choose core functions according to your own pain points (such as shoulder and neck stiffness caused by prolonged sitting, leg soreness after exercise), and prioritize testing the fit (such as whether the SL track fits the spine curve) rather than blindly pursuing the number of functions.

By avoiding these misunderstandings, massage chairs can truly play a role in relaxing muscles and relieving fatigue, while avoiding unnecessary health risks and equipment damage. Be sure to read the instruction manual before use, adjust reasonably according to your own situation, and consult professionals when necessary.