Type
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Percussion (pistol). Massagers in a characteristic pistol form factor, affecting areas of the body and limbs using fast and rhythmic percussive movements (tapping). The principle of their operation is quite simple: the shock-vibration part intensively delivers rhythmic blows to the surface of the body in the area where you direct it. Percussion massagers are suitable for relieving muscle tension and pain, improving blood circulation, flexibility and mobility of muscles and joints, and promoting relaxation after physical activity.
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Manual. Devices in the form of devices held in the hand: during the massage process, it is necessary to move the massager over the treated area. The key advantage of this design is its versatility - the hand massager can be used for almost any part of the body. However, performing a massage on yourself with such a device is not very convenient: the procedure can be quite tedious, requires attention and almost does not allow you to be distracted by other activities. In addition, some areas (for example, the back) can only be effectively treated if another person is working as a massager.
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Belt. Belt-shaped devices are good because you can put them on, turn them on and not be distracted by the massager until the end of the procedure, while going about your business; Moreover, many models even allow you to walk during the ma
...ssage (although this is usually not recommended). We also note that such devices can have different designs and quite varied applications (see below); in fact, only the face and head are parts of the body for which belts are unsuitable.
— Footrest. Most of these models have the form of platforms with an “active surface” that acts on the feet and provides vibration, sometimes with IR heating. Devices with shiatsu are less common (see “Modes”). Most platforms only target the feet, but there are extended height models that also target the calves.
— Cover for the chair. Devices in the form of pads for seats with backrests - office chairs, car seats, etc.; can have different shapes and sizes and are intended for different types of furniture. Such massagers act exclusively on the back; they are especially useful for those who have a sedentary job or spend a lot of time driving. The convenience of the cape is that it can be kept on the chair at all times, including when necessary; in addition, the massage procedure can be carried out directly during the main activity (if, of course, it is not too distracting). The most popular methods of influence in capes are vibration and shiatsu, but there are other modes.
– Pillow. Pillows are intended primarily for the head and neck, but there are other options, for example, models suitable for the feet and calves. One of the important advantages of such massagers is their small size.
– Head massager. A specific type of massager, designed, as the name suggests, to affect specific areas of the head. As a rule, it is attached to the head during work.
– Neck massager. In appearance, specialized neck massagers resemble a horseshoe-shaped roller attached to the neck-collar area - wearing it around the neck frees up the user’s hands. Conventionally, such massage devices can be divided into two camps: kneading and impulse. The first are indicated for a deep effect on muscle tissue and are suitable for users with osteochondrosis, osteoporosis and constant muscle tension. In pulse models, the massage is performed by special heads of small diameter - the sensations during the session resemble the passage of electrical impulses through the muscles. It is recommended to use such massagers for osteoarthritis and osteochondrosis, soreness of muscle tissue in the neck and shoulders.
— Roller. Devices in the form of cylindrical rollers, the surface of which is covered with a special notch, allowing the roller to be used for self-massage of the back, legs and other parts of the body. However, there are rollers with a smooth surface - they create maximum contact with the surface of the body. Such models are ideal for increasing blood circulation and deep muscle work. As an additional effect, massage rollers usually provide a vibration function. Manual models for acupressure roller massage may also fall into this category.
— Palm massager. Devices for massage and relaxation of the muscles of the fingers and palms. As a rule, such models combine several types of massage in one bottle: acupuncture, compression, vibration, etc. (depending on the specific implementation). Palm massagers reduce hand fatigue after a long stay at the computer, prevent the occurrence of “tunnel syndrome,” improve blood circulation and joint mobility, activate lymph flow and relieve swelling.
— Massage mattress is used for relaxation, as well as the treatment and prevention of many ailments. This type of massager allows you to improve the quality of sleep, quickly and effectively relieves fatigue after a hard day at work. It is often recommended to be used as an additional means of physical therapy for people who have undergone various injuries and surgeries. The massager uses roller vibration motors as power actuators, the number of which can vary, from 10 or more. Actively affects such areas of the body as the neck, shoulder girdle, back, lower back, as well as buttocks and hips.
— Hydromassage. The operation of the device is based on the flow of air that flows through numerous nozzles. The closest analogue of a hydromassage is a jacuzzi. This type of massager is designed to work in an aquatic environment. There are several main types of hydromassage. There are bath mats that are designed to massage: the neck, shoulder girdle, back, lower back, buttocks and thighs.
— Air massager. Devices for massage using compressed air, working on the principle of air compression - creating pressure on various parts of the body. Most often, air massagers are used to affect areas of the legs (calves, thighs or feet). They are designed with special air chambers or cushions that inflate and deflate, creating a rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the muscles. This helps improve blood circulation, relieve tension, reduce swelling and overall relaxation.Power
The rated power of a massager is more of a reference than a practical concern for most users. Generally, massagers consume less than 80 watts, with higher ratings, up to 400 watts, observed in specific chair cover models that heavily rely on extensive infrared heating. However, power consumption is usually not a significant factor, especially for models powered by a household outlet. Manufacturers carefully select power levels to ensure the effective performance of claimed functions and modes. When choosing a massager, it's more practical to focus on other relevant aspects rather than getting overly concerned about power ratings.
Number of programs
The number of individual operate programs provided for in the design of the massager.
It's important to distinguish this from massage modes (as discussed below). A single program can integrate multiple massage modes, such as vibration and infrared heating. Consequently, the count of programs may not necessarily align with the number of distinct massage types.
Anyway, the more modes, the more versatile the massager, the more ways it can be used. However such an abundance can affect the price.
Application
Parts of the body for which massager is intended.
While primarily linked to the massager type (as discussed earlier), the effectiveness of these devices can vary significantly based on factors such as modes and attachments. It's crucial to adhere to the specifications and guidelines for use, as even similar-looking models may differ in their intended applications. Using a massager in a manner not specified in the manual, even if permissible for a similar model, can result in various unpleasant consequences, including potential injuries.
Now on the market there are massagers for almost any part of the body, namely:
eyes,
face,
head,
neck,
shoulders,
arms,
back,
chest,
abdomen,
hips,
calves,
feet.
Remote control
The presence of a remote control in the delivery set of the massager. It can be either a wireless device or a remote control panel on a wire. Anyway,
the remote control is usually made in such a way that the user can control the massager without interrupting the procedure and without even making unnecessary movements, which has a positive effect on work efficiency.