Your Complete Guide to Shopping for a Massage Chair A quality massage chair is an investment in your health, comfort, and overall quality of life. That means picking the right massage chair takes some thought. After all, what’s right for you today might not meet your full needs in five to ten years — and a top-quality chair should last that long. Take into consideration your physical needs, aesthetic preferences, budget, and the available space you have in your home. On top of that, there are all the unique features and options that come with each massage chair. Read our guide below outlining the different kinds of chairs on the market, so you can make the best choice for you and your home.

Basic vs. Programmable Chairs

If you’re looking for a massage chair for casual use that doesn’t break the bank, a basic massage chair will probably do the trick. Don’t take basic to mean simplistic — even the most basic massage chairs boast a wide range of capabilities and serious comfort. With the Catnapper® Ramsey 4857, for example, you’ll get classic comfort paired with an elegant aesthetic. This luxurious American leather chair can recline and lift, and offers a quiet, gentle massage. If you want advanced or more targeted relief, a programmable massage chair might better suit your needs. Some basic chairs come with programming options, such as the Human Touch ZeroG Volito with its three therapeutic presets; while more advanced chairs like the Synca JP1100 allow you to create your own programs and presets. A programmable massage chair can help address specific problem areas or apply different amounts of pressure across your body.

Modern and Traditional Styles

If you choose correctly, your massage chair should last years — which means finding a chair that suits your personal taste and home decor is critical to your long-term enjoyment and appreciation of it. With advancements in ergonomic furniture design, there are a variety of high-tech massage chairs on the market to suit traditional and modern decorating tastes. If you want a more modern massage chair, look no further than the Human Touch Novo Ascent with its futuristic design. The Galaxy Kuma, on the other hand, will fit right into a traditional home thanks to its classic beige cover. Remember to think about how much space you have available in the room where you will keep your new furniture, as massage chairs vary in size.

The Two Roller Track Systems

The shape of the roller tracks is one of the key varying components of a massage chair. There are two types to choose from: an S-track and an L-track. Each offers a different experience for your body. S-track rollers support the natural curve of your spine. That means a chair like the Cozzia CZ-328 can help treat tension in your back and reduce stress. In contrast, L-track rollers decompress the spine and engage each disc. The TP-Pro Alpine uses an L-track to offer unparallelled neck, back, and lumbar support, while also tackling your glutes.

Special Features

Many massage chairs go beyond simple massage capabilities, providing a whole range of other benefits. Here are a few additional features to consider as you shop for your perfect chair.

Muscle Therapy

If you’ve ever been injured, chances are you know how much temperature can impact recovery. While an ice pack might help reduce swelling, a hot water bottle does wonders for tight muscles and cramping. Massage chair designers have harnessed this science to create chairs that gently heat your muscles for optimal relaxation. For instance, the Catnapper Nettles Rocker Recliner offers heating options to soothe your muscles and ease aches. Luxury chairs like the Osaki Titan Pro Jupiter have heating capabilities that target specific parts of the body — including the calves and lower lumbar area. Massage chairs can also include stretching settings to relax sore and tight muscles. The Cozzia CZ-389 features 3D technology that stretches your muscles, all while offering classic massage options.

Light, Sound, Action

Some massage chairs, like the Cozzia CZ-630, incorporate chromotherapy — or light therapy — for a unique massage experience and extra relaxation.   If you expect to spend a significant amount of time in your new piece of furniture, you may want to choose one that allows you to integrate your MP3 or other music-playing device through Bluetooth. The Osaki OS-Pro Maxim includes a Bluetooth connection for the speaker, so you can enjoy your favorite relaxation music during your massage. The Back Store has an extensive collection of luxury massage chairs, so no matter what kind of chair you’re looking for, we can help you find it. Contact our team of experts today if you have questions about certain features or to get assistance choosing your perfect massage chair.