Chair Massage

Onsite chair massage was introduced into the workplace by David Palmer, who in 1986 developed the first specialized massage chair.

Pictures courtesy of www.massagenerd.com.

Chair (or seated) massage reduces stress and increases energy levels among employees. The massage also helps relieve neck, shoulder, and arm tension that contribute to repetitive stress injuries among workers. Companies benefit in the form of increased productivity, lower absenteeism, and higher morale.

But this type of massage is not limited to the workplace. You will find massage kiosks set up in malls and airports and at trade shows, conventions, or sporting events. A portable massage chair can go almost anyplace!

The advantages of seated massage are that it's convenient (you keep your clothes on), fast (from 5 to 30 minutes long), and affordable. The massage typically focuses on tension areas in the back, neck, shoulders, and arms.

The massage techniques for a seated massage are different from typical massage therapy techniques. Traditional Swedish massage techniques don't translate well to massage in a chair because they largely consist of gliding strokes that don't work well over clothing.

Compression techniques, including acupressure, are most commonly used. David Palmer was trained in Amma massage, an ancient system of acupressure techniques, and many massage therapists have trained in his system.

Squeezing techniques are often performed on large muscle groups and muscles that are not firmly attached to underlying structures.

Kneading techniques are circular movements.

Percussion (or tapotement) are stimulating techniques are what many people call karate chops.

Each massage therapist is unique and has his or her own way of performing a massage.

For More Information

Carol Wiley, LMP, offers onsite seated massage in the Bellevue/Seattle area.

Chair Massage Is For You is your one source on the Net for information about seated massage.

Marketing Chair Massage 101 is a comprehensive and practical course in creating a successful seated massage business.

Relax to the Max is the only massage school in North America that specializes in seated massage.