Massage therapy is an effective way to relieve stress and muscle fatigue after a hectic routine. It is the sort of treatment that provides various physical and mental health benefits without medication. Besides, massage treatment is highly effective for people with bodily pain or specific health conditions as it provides many therapeutic benefits.
The advancement of technology has evolved massage treatments by utilizing the latest mechanics, making them accessible for everyone, everywhere through massage chairs. Despite the value and reputation of human massage, some people are still confused between massage chairs & real massage therapy, which is better?
Let’s learn more about the differences and pros & cons of real massage therapy & massage chairs in this comparison post.
Comparison: Massage Chair or Real Massage Therapy?
Some people think getting a massage from a well-trained human therapist is a significant benefit of real massage, however, a few may have some issues with human touch or getting a massage with no clothes on.
However, the great massage skills of a masseuse are the huge advantage of real massage therapy as the therapist with in-depth knowledge of the musculoskeletal system can take the right decision/judgment for you.
Research has shown that the gentle and healing touch of a practitioner when combined with therapeutic massage imparts incredible results in reducing nausea, pain, anxiety, and fatigue.
It is almost impossible to get the exact feeling of human touch even with premium luxury massage chairs which offer great features of massage and amazing therapeutic benefits.
- Massage Variety & Customization
Therapists use a variety of massage techniques to reduce pressure, relax muscles and pay attention to problem areas to ease muscle knots. The techniques massage therapists usually use for the well-being of the human body include friction, effleurage, petrissage, vibration & tapotement.
Massage practitioner knows the precise type of massage to administer the group of muscles that achieves the superior result. They also pay attention to your suggestion to conduct the treatment session according to your preference whether it is gentle massage or deep tissue massage.
However, massage chairs also offer various massage types, some most common massage techniques include rolling, kneading, grasping, vibration, shiatsu, and Swedish. Likewise, massage chairs have various choices and options depending on the models for massage speed & intensity adjustments, some come with customize functions like air massage, heating, foot massage, zero gravity positions, etc.
- Convenience, Privacy & Accessibility
Although not any machine can be as beneficial as real massage treatment, massage chairs have the edge due to factors like privacy, convenience, and accessibility. With massage chairs you do not need to wait for massage treatment, you and your family can simply enjoy massage therapy in the comfort of your home, anytime.
Unlike massage therapy, massage chairs can be used anytime, anywhere in the home without making an appointment. Those who have any sort of privacy concerns can enjoy a massage at home with massage chairs.
- Pricing
Speaking of the price, the cost of massage chairs depends on model, brand, and features, the price of a premium massage chair can be thousands of dollars. On the other hand, the price range of human massage is varied from $80 to $180 hourly, the cost can be a little less or high depending on the area you live.
The massage chairs are a one-time investment as they come with a manufacturer warranty and they often last for years, making them cost-efficient for regular massage therapy.
Pros & Cons
Pros
| Massage Chairs | Real Massage Therapy |
| No privacy concerns | Healing human touch |
| Cost-effective | You can request any type of massage or tell the masseuse your issue to get the perfect healing massage treatment |
| Consistent and customized massage functions | Wide coverage area (Front and back body massage) |
| Saves time | Intensity can be modified upon request |
| A person can take nap during massage sessions | Varieties of massage |
Cons
| Massage Chairs | Real Massage Therapy |
| Back body massage only | Privacy invasion |
| Pre-set vibratory mechanism | Booking needed |
| Limited massage techniques/types | Time limitations |
| You need to be alert and attentive |
Bottom Line
Lastly, it can be concluded that both are amazing ways of relaxing and relieving tension, distress, and fatigue. It is rather about the personal preference that you go for a massage therapist for the best healing touch experience or want a convenient solution at home to relax your body and mind.
If you do not have time to go for real massage therapy then having a massage chair at home is no less than any blessing.
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