Chair massage | Réseau des massothérapeutes professionnels du Québec

Chair massage is a care of a few minutes that takes place in the sitting position on an ergonomic chair. It is performed without oil and over clothing.

Chair massage is not a technique in itself; it is rather a series of techniques such as swedish, shiatsu, thai and amma usually performed on the table that are adapted to a specifically designed chair. Therapists also have the freedom to create a series of manoeuvres inspired by other techniques.

Chair massage has something special as it can easily integrate into sporting or on-site corporate events or take place in the workplace since it requires only a small space, only takes a few minutes and does not require the person who receives the care to remove his clothes.

Benefits

Performed in the workplace, chair massage improves the well-being of employees by reducing the effects of stress on the body and also by reducing their pain and discomfort, especially on the neck, back and arms.

Chair massage Réseau des massothérapeutes

It prevents injuries due to repetitive movements or working body postures by relieving musculo-articular pain and improving joint mobility. On-site corporate chair massage can also contribute to improving the quality of work life and employees’ sense of belonging. A few minutes are enough to provide relaxation and a boost of energy.

For the elderly, those with reduced mobility or pregnant women, seated massage can be a more comfortable way to receive a massage.

Proceedings

As with any massage, chair massage begins with a questionnaire to assess the client’s state of health and check for any contraindications. Depending on the technique used and the client’s needs, the massage will cover the following body segments: upper and lower back, neck, head and arms. To promote relaxation in a noisy place, some therapists offer their client to wear headphones with relaxing music.

For a Swedish massage, the therapist will offer a routine of manoeuvres consisting of effleurage, foulage, kneading, friction, percussion, drainage, vibration, shaking and articular work.

For a Shiatsu massage, the therapist puts pressure over clothing by focusing on the meridians and acupuncture points located under the skin or into the muscles. Care may include joint mobilization and stretching manoeuvres.

For an Amma massage, the therapist performs a sequence of movements, called kata, which includes 23 precise movements performed on the shoulders, the back, the neck and the arms of the receiver.

For a Thai massage, the therapist will incorporate stretching, compression and reflexology. He will also use Thai postures targeting the head, neck, shoulders, back, arms and legs.

Contraindications

Healthy people can receive a chair massage without risk. Similarly, this type of care may be more appropriate than table massage for people with physical limitations. However, the therapist will not massage a client in the presence of fever, skin disease, heart or circulatory disorders or following recent surgery. Chair-based Amma massage is also not recommended for pregnant women.

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