Have you ever tried a massage chair and felt worse afterward and wondered why my back hurt after using a massage chair?
Maybe it’s an hour later and your back is suddenly hurting like crazy. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone: many people experience increased pain after using a massage chair.
In this article, we will explore why back pain may occur after using a massage chair and how you can prevent it from happening in the future.
Why Does My Back Hurt After Using a Massage Chair?
Back pain is a common complaint among those who use massage chairs, but that doesn’t necessarily mean the chair is at fault.
Using a massage chair can provide much-needed relief and tension reduction in the neck and upper back muscles which can reduce existing pain or even prevent it from occurring.
The main cause of back pain associated with massage chairs is poor posture and body mechanics while sitting or reclining in them.
Causes of Post-Massage Chair Use Back Pain
Anyone who’s ever used a massage chair can vouch for the soothing and relaxing benefits it brings. However, some may also experience various levels of pain or discomfort after using one.
This could be due to several common causes such as:
1. Overuse of the Chair
Overusing a massage chair can put a strain on certain areas of your body and cause pain if the session goes on for too long or returns are set at too high an intensity.
The following are some of the potential problems associated with overuse of a massage chair:
| Potential Problems of Overusing a Massage Chair |
|---|
| Muscle strain, particularly if the chair does not offer adequate support or if you use too much pressure. |
| Joint pain, particularly in the hips, knees, and ankles due to prolonged sitting. |
| Numbness and tingling in the legs and feet, as well as in the hands and arms if the armrests are used for support. |
| Stiffness in the muscles and joints, particularly if you do not move around or stretch regularly. |
2. Incorrect Positioning
Sitting in an incorrect position can also cause stiffness when you get out of the chair. So it is important to adjust the settings so that your body position is comfortable throughout the session.
The following are some of the potential problems associated with incorrect positioning:
- Back pain: If you are not positioned correctly in the chair, it can put undue stress on your back, causing pain and discomfort.
- Neck pain: Incorrect positioning can also lead to neck pain, particularly if your head and neck are not properly supported.
- Shoulder pain: Poor positioning can also cause shoulder pain, particularly if the armrests are not at the proper height or distance.
3. Pre-existing Condition
If you have a pre-existing condition, using a massage chair may exacerbate your symptoms and cause pain.
The following are some pre-existing conditions that can be worsened by using a massage chair:
- Herniated discs: Using a massage chair can put pressure on the discs in your spine, causing them to bulge or herniate further.
- Arthritis: If you have arthritis, using a massage chair can aggravate joint pain and inflammation, particularly in the hands, wrists, and knees.
- Spinal stenosis: If you have spinal stenosis, using a massage chair can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, causing pain, numbness, and tingling.
- Osteoporosis: If you have osteoporosis, using a massage chair can increase the risk of fractures, particularly in the spine.
- Fibromyalgia: Using a massage chair can worsen pain and fatigue associated with fibromyalgia.
4. User Error
User error when using a massage chair can cause discomfort, pain, and even injury. The following are some common user errors that can lead to problems:
| User Error | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Using too much pressure | Muscle strain, bruising |
| Sitting too close or too far | Discomfort, difficulty reaching certain areas of the body |
| Using the wrong settings | Pain, and discomfort, particularly if the massage is too intense |
| Not properly adjusting the chair | Discomfort, poor posture |
| Not taking breaks | Numbness, tingling, and stiffness in the muscles and joints |
Tips to Prevent Back Pain After Using a Massage Chair
Massage chairs offer powerful relief for sore and aching muscles, but without the right precautions, they can lead to back pain.
Here are some tips to prevent back pain after using a massage chair:
| Tips | Description |
|---|---|
| Use the chair properly | Read the instructions carefully and use the chair properly, adjusting it to your body and using the correct settings and intensity levels. |
| Limit your time | Limit your time in the massage chair, particularly if you are prone to back pain or have a pre-existing condition. |
| Take breaks | Take breaks and stretch regularly, if you plan to use the chair for an extended period. |
| Practice good posture | Maintain good posture while using the chair, sitting with your back straight and your feet flat on the ground. |
| Use a pillow or cushion | Use a small pillow or cushion to support your lower back, particularly if the chair does not offer adequate support. |
When to Seek Medical Attention?
If you experience persistent or severe discomfort or pain after using a massage chair, it is important to seek medical attention.
Here are some signs that you should seek medical attention:
- Severe or sharp pain: If you experience severe or sharp pain in your back, neck, or other areas of your body after using a massage chair, it could be a sign of a more serious condition that requires medical attention.
- Numbness or tingling: If you experience numbness or tingling in your legs, arms, hands, or feet after using a massage chair, it could be a sign of nerve damage and you should seek medical attention.
- Difficulty moving: If you experience difficulty moving after using a massage chair, it could be a sign of a muscle or joint injury and you should seek medical attention.
- Pre-existing conditions: If you have a pre-existing condition such as spinal stenosis, herniated discs, or osteoporosis, and you experience discomfort or pain after using a massage chair, you should seek medical attention to ensure that the massage did not aggravate your condition.
- Prolonged discomfort: If you experience prolonged discomfort or pain after using a massage chair, even if it is mild, it is important to seek medical attention to rule out any underlying conditions or injuries.
FAQs
1. What Can I Do to Prevent Post-Massage Back Pain?
Before using the massage chair make sure that it is properly adjusted to fit your body size and shape.
You should also stay within your comfort zone while using the massage chair, such as adjusting the kneading intensity according to your preference.
2. Why is it Important to Hydrate Before, During, and After Massage Chair Use?
It is important to properly hydrate before, during, and after using a massage chair to help reduce stiffness and soreness that can occur in the muscles.
Staying hydrated helps keep the body optimally functioning by providing essential nutrients to the cells and muscles, which can help with the recovery process after massage chair use.
3. Why is it Important to Adjust my Massage Chair Before Using it?
Adjusting your massage chair before use is an important factor when considering post-massage chair back pain. Properly adjusting the massage chair can help to ensure that it fits your body shape and size, which can reduce discomfort during and after use.
4. Is it Safe to Use a Massage Chair?
Yes, massage chairs are generally safe to use when following the instructions provided by the manufacturer and taking certain measures such as adjusting them properly for your body shape and size.
5. How Can I Prevent My Back from Hurting After Using a Massage Chair?
Taking steps to prevent back pain while using a massage chair can go a long way toward enjoying the amazing relief and relaxation they provide.
While sitting in the chair, be sure to focus on your posture and keep your spine properly aligned.
Conclusion
Regularly using massage chairs can provide great physical and mental health benefits.
However, if you do experience post-massage chair back pain it is important to consider the proper adjustments for your body shape and size as well as stay within your comfort zone while using the massage chair to prevent injury.
The idea of taking a break and allowing those muscles to relax in the comfort of your own home is compelling indeed.
