If you are looking for a massage chair, then you will see many massage chairs claiming to be a shiatsu massage chair. There is a lot of confusion as to what constitutes a true shiatsu style massage chair. First we need to understand the actual massage therapy technique, then we can better evaluate if a chair really fits into this category.

Shiatsu massage is a branch of ancient Chinese medicine which was developed in Japan over many centuries. Acupuncture has been used since ancient times, but the use of pressure instead of needles is acupressure. The Japanese healers have practiced many ways to heal the body and to reduce aches, pains and general discomfort. This particular massage therapy developed by using pressure applied to different areas to unblock and enhance energy flow. Through much trial and error, the Japanese healers found specific areas now called acupressure points which were found to help to heal the body.

As the pressure points were being discovered and correlated to different body parts, massage therapies were used in conjunction. Massage techniques such as chopping and kneading were used. Chopping helps stimulate the muscles to increase blood and lymph circulation. Kneading was found to elongate the muscles to help increase flexibility and healing after physical exertion. The use of pressure points where firm pressure is used with either chopping and kneading started the foundation to traditional shiatsu massage.

Now that we understand the origins of traditional shiatsu massage, we can evaluate if a chair labeled as shiatsu earns the name or not. Some of the most famous shiatsu massage chairs originated in Japan and are made by Sanyo or Panasonic. Other brands like Omega and Human Touch which are American companies have developed shiatsu style massage therapies based on these principals. Here are some of the best shiatsu chair recliners available.

The Panasonic EP30004 Real Pro Ultra creates a virtual map of your back. It takes into consideration the curvature of your spine and shoulder height. This chair also comes with an ultra-fine kneading function called Junetsu. Junetsu uses small circular motions that reverberate to the bone to provide muscle invigoration and relaxation. These massage techniques are particularly effective for the whole back region. The Junetsu is a unique massage only incorporated in the Panasonic chair.

Sanyo has developed a shiatsu lower body massage therapy. The Sanyo system targets multiple pressure points in the leg and foot. The pressure points are applied firm pressure which helps relieve stress and enhance energy flow throughout the body. Additionally, the tactically placed air bags provide a comforting and thorough air compression massage.

Some massage chairs have taken shiatsu massage and elevated into higher dimensions. Take the Montage Premier by Omega. This chair brings in the dimension of sound with the MP3 music player. Put on the headphones and let the music soothe your mind. Meanwhile, add full body heat or individual area heat to reduce swelling and ease aches and pains. Or add some traditional shiatsu lower body stretching. The Montage Premier incorporates a lower body traction that elongates the whole lower body for comprehensive relief.

Of course, there are more massage chairs that provide shiatsu massage therapy, but these are the best of the best. Find out if shiatsu massage is right for you. If so, then you will do very well with any of these chairs. Many companies advertise that they perform certain functions, but they may not actually deliver it. If you stick with the top brands like Sanyo, Omega and Panasonic then you will get years of shiatsu massage therapy from your massage chair.

If you are in the market for a Shiatsu Massage Chair, then see all the best Shiatsu Massage Chairs made by Panasonic, Sanyo, Omega, Health Tec, Human Touch and more. Browse our massage chair articles, reviews and options.

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