Massage Chairs During Pregnancy – Is It Safe?

Is It Safe to Use Massage Chairs During Pregnancy?

A massage chair is similar to a regular recliner. The only difference is it comes with an electric motor that generates controlled vibration. These vibrations stimulate your nerves and improve blood flow. The massage chair presses acupoints to release tension from the muscles. The vibration generated from the massage chair is similar to what you experience during walking. Therefore, it does not cause harm to use during pregnancy unless you have a high-risk pregnancy. Some more reasons a pregnant woman should avoid massage chair during pregnancy include:-

1. Over-pressing Pressure Points

Over-pressing the pressure points may trigger premature labor. Therefore, when using a massage chair, be sure the vibrations are mild and do not over-pressurize your body’s acupressure point.

2. Excessive Heating

The massage chair comes with a heating pad that raises the body’s temperature to relieve pain sensation and soothe sore muscles. It is easy to modulate and be mindful to use, especially when pregnant. Do not heat excessively, and use a massage chair with moderate heat.

Things to Keep In Mind Before Using Massage Chairs During Pregnancy

Though massage chairs do not cause harm to pregnant women if used moderately with controlled heating and vibration, there are a few things you should keep in mind before using massage chairs:-

• Do not spend more than 15-20 minutes in the massage chair.
• Avoid putting excessive pressure on the acupressure points during the third trimester of the pregnancy.
• Pressing over pressure points may trigger the labor.
• Do not use a massage chair if you do not fit into the chair properly.
• Avoid using a massage chair if you have a high-risk pregnancy, preeclampsia, swelling, headache, history of preterm labor, and edema. Using a massage chair during high-risk pregnancy may trigger preterm labor and cause premature delivery.

Top 5 Benefits of Massage Chairs During Pregnancy

An excellent relaxing massage through a massage chair can benefit during pregnancy if done in the proper manner. Some of the top benefits of getting a massage during pregnancy include:-

1. Eases Back and Leg Pain

During pregnancy, you may experience back and lower back pain due to the growing fetus. Hence, having a good massage session helps relieve the pain and improve sleep quality.

2. Reduces Stress

Massage during pregnancy helps to manage the level of hormones in the body. The restored hormonal balance helps to reduce anxiety, depression, and stress to improve the quality of sleep during pregnancy.

3. Eases Labor Pain

Massage sessions during labor help to ease labor and eliminate the chances of postnatal depression. In simpler terms, it improves postpartum recovery.

4. Improves Blood Circulation

Massage therapy during pregnancy is highly beneficial for the blood circulation. The vibrations help to trigger the nerves and facilitate the flow of blood into the veins. The improved blood circulation helps to circulate oxygen into the body and reduces muscle stiffness.

5. Increases Comfort

The enlarged fetus causes discomfort in the pelvic region and may cause sciatic nerve pain in the legs causing discomfort. A good massage can help to reduce pressure on the nerves and release tension so pregnant women can feel comfortable.

Precautions to Take While Using a Massage Chair

Massage during pregnancy is highly comforting and relaxing. However, a pregnant woman should take precautionary measures when using a massage chair to avoid consequences. Some of the preventive measures are:-

• Do not use any sharp objects on the massage chair
• Always keep mild vibrations and temperature intensity to avoid overheating and over-pressing pressure points.
• Ensure you sit comfortably on the massage chair. Do not push yourself to fit into the chair with a grown tummy.
• Ensure the massage chair is connected with a completely grounded electrical outlet to prevent electrical hazards.
• Limit your timing on the massage chair.

A massage chair might seem relaxing and comforting to reduce stress, anxiety, and pain that occur in the body during pregnancy. But you should be aware of the consequences of the overuse of the massage chair. Always use massage for a limited time, and set moderate intensity of vibration and heat. Prefer physical therapy from a specialist to ease pain in legs and joints. Consult with healthcare experts to get the right guidance if you have persisting pain.

FAQ’s

1. Can Massage Help To Overcome Sciatic Nerve Pain During Pregnancy?

Massage on particular stress points can help to reduce sciatic nerve pain during pregnancy.

2. How Often Should A Pregnant Woman Use A Massage Chair During Pregnancy?

The frequency of usage depends on the health condition of the pregnant woman. However, a pregnant woman should use a massage chair for a limited time.