A massage chair is a specialized piece of furniture designed to provide therapeutic massages to the user. It is equipped with various massage techniques and functions that target specific body areas, including the lower back.
However, it is not uncommon for a few users to experience lower back pain from using a massage chair. This can be due to improper posture, excessive pressure on the lumbar region, pre-existing conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis, etc.
This is not always the case—if you know the right way to massage your back, you can prevent the occurrence of lower back pain when using a massage chair. If you have lower back pain, read this guide to treat it properly.
Lower back pain from massage chair – Key Takeaways
[su_note note_color=”#fff3ad”]
- Lower back pain from massage chair may happen due to incorrect positioning, high intensity, duration of use, pre-existing conditions, and incorrect use of features.
- When using a massage chair on the lower back, adjust the chair correctly, position yourself properly, start with a gentle intensity, target specific areas, relax and breathe deeply, and gradually increase the intensity if desired.
- Stretching your lower back afterward is also beneficial.[/su_note]
Possible Causes Of Lower Back Pain Via a Massage Chair
Several factors can contribute to lower back pain after using a massage chair. Understanding these causes can help you identify the root of your discomfort and take appropriate action to prevent it from recurring.
Here are some common causes:
1. Incorrect Positioning.
Lower back pain might result from improper massage chair posture. The muscles in the lower back can become strained from sitting too much forward or back, which can cause pain.
2. Intensity Level.
Lower back pain might result from using a massage chair at a level of intensity that is too high for your body. High-intensity massage can cause injuries, muscle aches, and discomfort if the massage chair presses too hard against your lower back.
3. Duration Of Use.
Back pain in the lower back can also result from overusing a massage chair. Long hours of chair use can strain and exhaust the muscles, causing lower back pain.
4. Pre-Existing Conditions.
A massage chair can worsen your lower back discomfort if you already have pre-existing conditions like split discs or spinal stenosis. If you have any existing back concerns, consult with a medical expert prior to using a massage chair.
5. Incorrect Use Of Features.
Some massage chairs offer a variety of adjustable settings and features. Lower back pain may result from improper usage of these features or overly aggressive setting choices.
You should always know how to operate the massage chair correctly and change the settings to your preferred comfort level.
6. Dehydration.
Massage chairs can cause dehydration and reduce blood flow to certain body areas, including the lower back. This can result in pain and discomfort.
Drinking water before your session and replenishing fluids afterward can help maintain proper hydration levels and reduce the risk of muscle soreness.
Ways To Prevent Lower Back Pain When Using a Massage Chair
The advantages of relaxation and pain reduction from massage chairs can be experienced without any negative side effects by taking proactive steps to prevent lower back pain.
Here are some helpful pointers to reduce the possibility of discomfort:
1. Adjust Settings Comfortably.
Choose a comfortable level for the massage chair’s settings. Your lower back may experience pain if the intensity is too high because it will be under much strain. Begin with a low setting and slowly raise it to a level that is comfortable for you.
2. Add Support With Cushions.
Use extra pillows or cushions to give your lower back more support when using the massage chair. Doing so can prevent your lower back muscles from becoming overworked and preserve your spine’s natural curve.
3. Maintain Proper Posture.
While seated in the massage chair, maintain good posture. Put your back on the backrest of the chair and sit up straight. To reduce further stress on your lower back, avoid sitting or leaning toward your back.
4. Take Breaks During Massage.
While getting a massage, take breaks. It’s necessary to provide your muscles time to relax and heal. If you feel any pain or discomfort, take a little break from the massage chair and restart.
5. Stretch Before And After.
Stretch both before and after utilizing the massage chair. Lower back discomfort is less likely to occur if you warm up your muscles and become more flexible with gentle stretches.
6. Consult a Healthcare Professional.
Consult a medical expert before utilizing a massage chair if you have any history of lower back problems or persistent pain. To ensure your comfort, they can offer useful instructions and suggest adjustments or safety measures.
When To Seek Medical Advice For Lower Back Pain?
While lower back pain from massage chairs is often temporary and can be alleviated with preventive measures, there are instances when medical attention is necessary. If you face any of these symptoms or signs, seeking medical advice is essential.
2. Severe Pain.
Consult a doctor immediately if your lower back pain is severe and accompanied by additional symptoms like tingling, numbness, or weakness in your legs. This can indicate a more severe problem, like a herniated disc or spinal cord compression.
1. Persistent Pain.
If the lower back pain from using a massage chair persists for over a few days, you should seek medical advice. This could indicate an underlying condition or injury that needs attention.
3. Lack Of Improvement.
Seek medical help if the lower back pain does not get better or gets worse with rest and self-care techniques. A healthcare expert can evaluate the situation and provide suitable treatment options.
4. History Of Back Problems.
Lower back pain from utilizing a massage chair should be discussed with a healthcare provider by people with a history of back issues, such as prior injuries, surgeries, or chronic diseases. To ensure effective care and avoid further difficulties, this is crucial.
5. Concern For Underlying Conditions.
It is essential to seek medical guidance if there is a fear that the lower back discomfort may be brought on by an underlying ailment such as arthritis, osteoporosis, or a spinal deformity.
To identify the source of the pain, a healthcare professional can assess the symptoms and request any required testing or imaging examinations.
How To Use Massage Chair On Lower Back?
When using a massage chair on your lower back, following proper techniques to ensure maximum benefit and prevent any potential discomfort or pain is important. Here are some steps to help you prevent the negative effects of using a massage chair on your lower back:
1. Adjust The Chair At Right Angle.
Before starting the massage, ensure the chair is adjusted to the right height and angle. This will ensure proper alignment of your body and allow the massage rollers to target your lower back accurately.
2. Position Yourself Correctly.
Sit back in the chair with your back against the backrest and your feet firmly on the footrest. Make sure your spine is in a neutral position, and avoid slouching or hunching over.
3. Start With a Gentle Intensity.
Begin the massage with a low- or medium-intensity setting. This will let your body gently calibrate to the pressure and movements of the massage rollers.
4. Target The Specific Lower Back Areas.
Use the manual controls or preset programs to focus the massage rollers on your lower back. You can adjust the rollers’ position and intensity to target specific discomfort areas. Continue the massage for the recommended duration, typically around 15-30 minutes.
5. Relax and Breathe Deeply.
As the massage chair works its magic, take deep breaths and attempt to ease your muscles. This will help enhance the effects of the massage and promote overall relaxation.
6. Gradually Increase Intensity If Desired.
If you feel comfortable and want a deeper massage, slowly increase the intensity of the massage. However, be mindful not to overexert or strain your lower back muscles.
7. Stretch Your Lower Back.
Stretching your lower back after the massage can help you feel even more relaxed and will help you release any tension that may have been left.
How To Choose The Right Massage Chair?
Consider your individual requirements and tastes when choosing a massage chair to treat lower back pain. Pick a chair with adaptable settings so you may change the massage’s speed, intensity, and focus.
It is a good idea to try out various models before buying so you don’t regret buying a massage chair. Visit a nearby shop or showroom to test out several massage chairs for yourself.
Pay close attention to how comfortable you feel during the massage and how well the techniques work to relieve your lower back discomfort. For more, read consumer reviews and consult with healthcare experts.
FAQs
Is It Normal For Your Back To Hurt After Using a Massage Chair?
Yes, some discomfort or soreness, comparable to muscle aches after exercise, is typical. Within a day or two, it should be gone. If it isn’t, you should consult with a healthcare specialist.
Why Does My Lower Back Hurt So Bad After a Massage?
After using a massage chair, severe lower back pain could have been brought on by the intensity, pre-existing conditions, or poor posture. The lower back muscles may experience excessive pressure or strain from high intensity, and pre-existing conditions may make the pain worse. Discomfort might also result from poor posture.
Are There Any Side Effects Of Using a Massage Chair?
In most cases, there may be minor side effects, such as momentary bruising or muscular pain. Before using, seek advice from a professional if you have any certain medical conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be helpful to use a massage chair to relieve lower back pain, but it’s important to be aware of any potential discomfort and take the appropriate safety measures.
Lower back pain can be avoided by adopting the proper posture and adding extra support with cushions. It’s also an excellent idea to stretch before and after sessions and take breaks while getting a massage.
Consult a healthcare expert if you have a history of back problems or if the pain is severe or chronic. Use the right techniques and, if you’d like, gradually increase the intensity when massaging.
