Lately everyone seems to be talking about zero gravity chairs, and we wanted to see if these recliners were really as good as they are advertised. Inspired by the same design that is used by astronauts in space, we wondered whether you really need a chair whose name implies it can defy gravity.
What Is a Zero Gravity Chair?
The first thing you need to understand is that even though these recliners were inspired by NASA, the chairs are not able to float on the air. In fact, some zero gravity recliners can weigh close to 200 pounds. Even if you choose a manual model instead of an electric model, these chairs will still remain firmly on the ground.
Zero gravity chairs actually derive their name from the reclining position, which is similar to the ones astronauts use when they are rocketing into space. Due to the extreme and sudden increases in gravity when the shuttle is breaking through the earth’s gravitational field, astronauts need to be in a supportive position that will reduce the amount of stress being exerted upon their bodies. This reclining position is not just comfortable; it also helps astronauts avoid painful injuries due to extreme stress and tension.
Zero Gravity Stimulator- photo courtesy of NASA
According to several leading manufacturers of zero gravity chairs, these recliners are able to give you the same feeling of weightlessness that astronauts experience when they are in space. The recliners’ ability to fully support your lumbar area can relieve stress and painful tension, and according to some manufacturers, give you the sense of weightlessness.
While we have never felt like we were floating in the air when we used a zero gravity recliner, the chairs are comfortable. Since these chairs can support your weight evenly, zero gravity recliners can be effective at relieving lower back pain due to some stress and tension.
A Few Added Benefits
There are also a few added benefits associated with zero gravity chairs, but it is important to remember that not everyone will experience the same feeling or relief from lower back pain in one of these recliners.
Since your legs are extended over your heart, it is possible to improve circulation, along with minimizing the appearance of varicose veins. While you can also reduce swelling and improve blood flow by simply propping your legs up with pillows, the effect is not quite the same.
Some zero gravity recliners also offer a massaging function which is supposed to improve your experience. While some consumers swear that it can relieve their lower back pain, it should be cautioned that this is often dependent on the person and the recliner. One of the advantages of a zero gravity chair over other massaging models is the fact that your are pressed firmly against the back which makes it easy for you to feel the effects of the rollers.
Are These Chairs Worth the Added Expense?
Ultimately we can’t answer this question for you, since only you know exactly what you need to be comfortable. These chairs are innovative, unique, and are currently the hottest trend, but this does not necessarily mean that it is exactly what you need to support and ease lower back pain. If you do decide that a zero gravity chair is the right choice for you, it is important to do your research and not get fooled by the advertising. Not only will this help to ensure that you find the right zero gravity recliner for your back pain, but it will also prevent you from making an expensive mistake.
We look forward to hearing any comments, and we also encourage you to share this page with family and friends. For more information on whether zero gravity recliners are worth the extra money, please visit the included link below.
References
http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/gadgets/home/zero-gravity-massage-chair1.htm
