This is not the most common question I get asked, but recently we had a few pregnant women visit our showroom with very understandable questions and concerns about using a massage chair during pregnancy.
First of all, congratulations to any family expecting a baby!!
Doctors generally encourage pregnant women to stay active when appropriate. Light exercise, walking, gentle stretching and other pregnancy safe activities can be beneficial. It is not necessarily the old idea of “just sit down and do nothing.” Staying active can help keep the body strong and mobile throughout pregnancy.
I am NOT A DOCTOR. However, after working with massage chairs for years, I can point out a few things that pregnant women should be aware of when trying a massage chair.
After all, I am a doctor of massage chairs. LOL.
First, let’s talk about zero gravity.
Most newer massage chairs put you into a zero gravity position during many of their preset massage programs.
Zero gravity means the chair reclines your body into an inclined position, with your legs elevated. This can feel fantastic and can help take pressure off the body and promote circulation.
But during pregnancy, I would not recommend staying in any deeply reclined or elevated position for a long period of time without first getting approval from your doctor.
This is one of those situations where I would rather be safe than sorry.
Second, be careful with stretching.
Some massage chairs give you what might be the best stretch you have ever experienced. LOL.
Certain chairs can hold your feet and legs while pulling your lower body in one direction and arching your back at the same time. Some advanced chairs with flex tracks can make this stretching sensation even stronger.
For someone who is pregnant, this is not something I would casually recommend.
It can be uncomfortable, and depending on the stage of pregnancy and the individual, certain stretching movements or positions may not be appropriate.
So, can you use a massage chair while pregnant?
This is where I would say ask your doctor first.
Every pregnancy is different. Your doctor knows your pregnancy, your health and any specific concerns that may apply to you.
If your doctor gives you the green light, there are massage chairs that can be used in a much gentler way.
Many newer massage chairs have programs such as Women’s Health or Perineal Care. These programs are generally designed around lower intensity massage, gentler air compression and less aggressive movement.
Some chairs also allow you to manually adjust the massage intensity, air pressure and reclining position, which can make a big difference.
And honestly, I have had pregnant women come into our showroom, try a massage chair and tell me it felt amazing. One customer was so comfortable she almost fell asleep!
But comfort does not automatically mean something is medically appropriate. That is why getting your doctor’s approval comes first.
My advice?
If you are pregnant and thinking about buying a massage chair, do not buy one based on an online description alone.
Come try it.
See how your body feels in the chair. Try different programs. Try different positions. Ask questions.
And most importantly, talk to your doctor before using a massage chair during pregnancy.
We have a private showroom in Orlando where you can take your time and actually experience the chairs instead of guessing from a website.
So if your doctor says it is okay...
Come to 800 John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL 32808.
Or shop online at LMCOrlando.com.
Right now.
Today.
Come.
LOL.
