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.

In addition to using the acupressure points, these healers also made use of applying kneading to loosen tight muscles. Tapping was also found to stimulate the muscles and enhance blood flow. These techniques are used in conjunction with pressure from the thumbs, fingers and the palm of the hand. The goal is to relax the body with the use of acupressure points which connect to the major organs. It is useful to know that when the body faces stress, the body mobilizes. All your major organs are mobilized to protect the body which increases stress and anxiety. Shiatsu seeks to reverse this process helping the body to restore itself and rebalance.

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.

One of the original lineages of shiatsu massage chairs are by Panasonic. The EP 30003 massage recliner provides two different styles of shiatsu style massage. It has the traditional shiatsu massage and also the Junetsu style. The Junetsu style differs from traditional shiatsu with the use of small circular and penetratng motions. The Junetsu style is good deep tissue relief. The combinations in the auto programs are well thought out for a therapeutic and relaxing massage.

The Sanyo SA 5000 uses a physical shape sensor to measure the users body. This is a high tech gadget to keep the shiatsu massage hitting the right acu pressure points. The interesting feature is that you can move around in the chair and the shape sensor readjusts where your pressure points are located. This is perfect for those who squirm more during the massage. The chair will still zero in on your points and hit them with relieving accuracy. Sanyo has got your back!

The Montage Premier Massage chair by Omega delivers a penetrating and invigorating shiatsu massage. The Montage Premier has the best foot massage of the high end chairs. This chair has acupressure nodes that penetrate both the arch and the heel of the foot. It performs an alternating sequence which stimulates the major organs and induces full body tranquility and relaxation. Omega also incorporates an MP3 player to play your favorite music to keep your mind occupied on relaxing.

There you have it--shiatsu massage chairs. Shiatsu massage therapy is a very popular massage therapy and performed around the world in spas. Now you know some of its most basic elements. There are many subtle movements with shiatsu. Find the best massage chair brands and you will get a satisfying and relieving shiatsu massage. If you are just starting your search, check out shiatsu massage chairs from Panasonic, Omega and Sanyo.