%20BackHug%20Logos/Bh%20WebLogo-Jan-25-2022-03-52-55-49-PM.svg)
Everything you need to know before you start a BackHug session. Including tips to get the most out of your treatment and important safety information.
BackHug can be downloaded from both the App Store and Google Play. Search 'BackHug' to find and download your App. Register an account and you can then access your device on your own smartphone.
Before starting each BackHug session:
- Please do not wear any sharp jewellery, belts or any other accessories which may damage the upholstery.
- Please always wear soft, light clothing for each session, in order to prevent scratches and tears from occurring on the outer upholstery material.
- Please ensure the bed is in the parked position, with the leg rest retracted when you get onto the device (see below).
How to operate - and get benefit from - your BackHug:
IMPORTANT:
- When lying down on the BackHug, it is advisable to move your body downward, bringing your buttocks closer to the leg rest and ensuring that your head does not protrude excessively from the device.
The concave part of the upholstery is designed for your head to rest on, not your neck.
How to choose the BackHug settings that are right for you:
Adjusting the settings is easy! Please experiment until you find what's right for you.
BackHug app screen displaying the multiple setting options to personalise your session
1. Strength:
You can use the app to adjust the strength of BackHug's fingers on your back with a simple slide control. Different strength levels can be set for various areas - neck, upper back, lower back, and shoulder blades - based on where your tension is highest.
Begin at a lower strength to avoid discomfort, then gradually increase until you find your ideal setting.
As you relax during the session, you might enjoy a stronger setting. Start comfortably, then adjust the strength as you relax to maximise the benefits.
Remember, your treatment shouldn't be uncomfortable. If you feel discomfort, reduce the strength in that area or turn the fingers off if necessary.
2. Speed:
Some people get the most benefit from long, slow pressure, where the fingers press and hold. Others prefer more rapid movement which can give you more a rhythmical, even pampering, feeling. Others prefer something in-between; find out what's best for you!
3. Treatment Area:
BackHug offers both personalized treatment programs and standard programs.
To access a personalized program, complete a 1-2-1 chatbot consultation that creates a treatment plan specifically tailored to your back health needs. Simply tap the 'Personalised' tab on the home screen to get started.
Alternatively, you can choose from pre-built programs like "Upper Back," "Lower Back," or "Neck Focus" if you have the most tension in any of those areas. For comprehensive treatment, select the "Full Back" option to have BackHug address your entire back equally.
4. Heat:
The upholstery of your BackHug comes with heating; not only does this make the experience more pleasant, it delivers comfort and health benefits. The default setting is for the heat to be on, but you can turn it off at any time in the app (and vice versa).
5. Back Length:
Choose the back length setting which corresponds to your height and BackHug will automatically deactivate any fingers which could be uncomfortable for you.
6. Session Duration:
The longer the session, the greater the benefits. We know, though, that your time is precious, so you can choose how long each treatment lasts to fit into your schedule.
Our top tips for the best results:
- Neck Positioning (IMPORTANT)
For the ideal neck positioning make sure that the top two fingers touch the top of your neck, or just below the Occipital Bun at the back of your head. - Body Positioning
Keep your body in the middle of the device. By doing so, the treatment fingers apply pressure evenly on both sides of your back (including the shoulder blades). - Complete In-App Consultation
Complete our 1:1 back care questionnaire (designed by our physio experts) regularly to analyse your back care needs and update a programme unique to you. - Freedom of Choice
Remember that you can adjust your various treatment settings at any time during the BackHug session. You can adjust the speed, strength, and treatment area. - Music On, World Off
Use our BackHug music feature and listen to a meditation audio or your favourite sounds during each session. Alternatively, try our in-app integration to enjoy your favourite playlists from Spotify, Audible & more! - Maximum 60 Min/Session per day
Regular use of BackHug is more important than too much at once, which helps you maintain your healthy back and general wellbeing. Make it a habit! - Make it a Habit
Use BackHug regularly (3-4 times a week if possible). Think of your BackHug sessions like going to the gym: fitting regular sessions into your routine can provide greater benefits over time. - Pressure Marks or Bruising
Because the treatment pressure can be firm depending on your selections, repeated BackHug use over time can leave pressure marks, or bruises, on your back. In that case, please leave enough of a gap between sessions to allow your skin to recover. You may also wish to reduce the treatment pressure or wear additional or thicker clothing. - Clothes
Wear a light to medium thickness top such as a t-shirt. Wearing additional or heavier clothes can make the treatment pressure gentler. - Keep Warm
We recommend using a blanket to cover you and keep your body warm during each session; your body temperature often decreases when you are relaxed/stationary. - Strength
Stronger treatment pressure may bring greater therapeutic benefits. You may choose a gentle strength setting for the first few sessions, but when your body becomes familiar with the treatment pressure over time you may want to gradually increase the strength to suit your changed needs. - Belt and Hair
Remove your belt so that it doesn't interfere with your lower back treatment. Similarly, keep your hair away from your neck. - Hands-Free
Tuck your phone in the phone pocket located at the side of the device. - Common Side Effects
You may experience headaches, dehydration or feel lethargic after BackHug sessions, especially for the first few weeks. These reactions are not uncommon after a good therapy session; just like when you had a good massage from a therapist! Drink plenty of warm water and take a good rest after the session.