Massage Chair vs Hydromassage
A massage is one of the easiest ways to relieve sore and tense muscles, and there are many ways to get one. However, unless you feel like paying a professional masseuse on a regular basis, you will probably want to use some sort of automatic massaging device.
Of all the types on the market, the massage chair has proven to be the most popular and versatile. What about hydromassage though? These devices have some important differences when compared to traditional massage chairs, and you should understand these differences before buying either one.
Massage Chair vs Hydromassage Comparison
How Massage Chairs Work
Massage chairs typically come with many features (computer systems, motors, etc.) that work together to give you an overall pleasant experience. There are many benefits of massage chairs as well as many types of massage chairs on the market to choose from.
Traditional massage chairs normally use massage rollers as research has proven rollers to have a therapeutic effect. There is a lot of variation in the placement and layout of these rollers, so you should research features of different chairs before you make a purchase.
Air bags are another feature of most massage chairs which inflate and deflate to apply a compression massage.
How Hydromassage Works
Hydromassage works by using warm water jets instead of rollers or air bags. Anyone who has ever spent some time in a hot tub can vouch for the soothing effect of water jets. Of course, not everyone has the money, space, or time to use a hot tub regularly.
Hydromassage devices give people a way to get that same hot tub effect without getting wet. The water circulates within a thin but strong waterproof cover. As such, you can feel the light pressure from the water jets without actually being in the water.
Since these devices can reuse the same water for quite a while, they won't run up your water bill like a hot tub (or swimming pool) would quickly do.
Hydromassage offers similar benefits as traditional massages. Benefits of hydromassage include improved mood and sense of relaxation as well as increased circulation and pain relief.
There are many types of hydromassage devices, with tables and chairs being the most common. A hydromassage table is almost the equivalent of a home masseuse in the level of convenience it provides. However, there are also many hand-held hydromassage devices for those whose needs are smaller.
The Key Differences
All in all, both massage chairs and hydromassage devices can be highly effective. The smart bet is to do your research into as many of them as possible before purchasing and keep the pros and cons in mind.
Hydromassage products tend to be more expensive, especially if you want a full-size table or one of the better chairs for your home. The technology involved here is simply a little more complex, and it hasn't been around as long. New things are usually more expensive, and hydromassage is no exception.
There are plenty of studies that have confirmed the benefits of general massage. However, these benefits tend to be of a more general sort, such as stress relief and relaxation. When you look for evidence regarding the benefits of hydromassage/hydrotherapy, you will find a lot more sources that deal with specific ailments.
For instance, in one study, researchers explored the effects of hydromassage on muscle spasms. While it was not found to be a cure, it reduced the frequency and severity of attacks as well as the amount of medication needed.
Conclusion
In short, the main differences come down to generalized usage versus specific usage. While traditional massage chairs are general-purpose tools to help with things like soreness and stress, hydromassage devices are generally used for something more precise.
Hydro massage chairs are also a little more sophisticated in their design. Because their mechanisms are more complicated, it can lead to maintenance problems, but you can avoid this issue by purchasing a high-quality option in the first place with a lengthy warranty.
All in all, our particular expertise is with massage chairs, we're much more familiar with them and our customers generally enjoy their chairs. Hydromassage is fascinating and appears to offer many benefits as well.
Reach out to us today to get more information on our massage chairs and their various features so you can find the right one for your needs. Call us at 800-566-2798, thank you for reading.
Disclaimer:
We do not provide medical advice. The content of this article, including text, graphics, and other material, is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a health condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.