Massage therapy is widely used and creates enormous profits for spas and wellness facilities. However, modern technologies could increase these profits further. Let's dive deep into what robotics can do to modernize spas.
Log in to view the full article
Massage therapy is widely used and creates enormous profits for spas and wellness facilities. However, modern technologies could increase these profits further. Let's dive deep into what robotics can do to modernize spas.
Higher Revenues
In recent months, there has been significant media attention on robotic devices for full-body massages. Numerous companies worldwide develop these technologies, and that number is increasing.
There are several reasons for the enhanced use of robotic solutions in the spa industry. Factors such as economic downturns and climate change drive the demand for relaxation. According to the latest data, the total number of spa visits increased from 173 million in 2021 to 181 million in 2023. At the same time, there is a global shortage of qualified masseuses. This deficit may lead to wellness facilities facing difficulties in meeting this increasing demand. Robotics can help bridge this gap, as our research shows they can perform twice as many procedures as a human therapist.
According to our research, robots can lead to a 2.4 times increase in revenue for wellness facilities. Additionally, operational costs could decrease by up to 40%, providing significant financial relief for wellness facility owners and managers, with an annual return on investment of 54% per robotic device.
Related: AI Applications in Spa and Wellness
Adaptability and Additional Benefits
Robotics can also offer a range of additional benefits for spas and their clients. One key advantage is the ability of robotic systems to multitask and specialize in various areas simultaneously, unlike human staff.
For example, some robotic devices can not only perform stress-relieving massages, but also address issues such as obesity or assist in post-operative recovery. These machines can provide lymphatic drainage and other treatments as adequate as traditional massages. Robotic massages can reduce pain, alleviate swelling, and improve circulation, speeding up recovery after surgery. In the context of obesity treatment, these devices can help stimulate metabolism, enhance lymphatic drainage, promote fat breakdown and reduce inflammation. Regularly using such robotic therapies can contribute to better overall patient health outcomes.
As a result, spas looking to expand their service offerings can integrate new programs into their robotic devices rather than hiring additional specialists. This approach can be more cost-effective in the long run.
Moreover, robotics can attract more clients by offering consistent and reliable treatments. Imagine receiving the exact same massage session every time you visit a masseuse — robots can do that. Equipped with advanced features such as manipulator arms, adjustable couches, and adaptable spheres, they can cater to various body types, delivering highly personalized treatments. In addition, they use real-time data from the patient to dynamically adjust pressure and intensity, ensuring each session is comfortable and effective.
Robotics can also create more relaxing environments than human staff. Some spas now incorporate advanced hydrotherapy systems that use computer-controlled jets and AI-powered sensory environments to optimize relaxation and therapeutic outcomes. These systems can even feature virtual reality elements synchronizing with treatments, immersing clients in calming, stimulating experiences. Examples of this cutting-edge approach include massage chairs, hydrotherapy tubs, virtual reality relaxation pods and robots.
Major Obstacles + Solutions
Not everyone is ready to ride the new trends and try new treatment forms. Currently, those most interested in automated massage technologies are tech enthusiasts and people concerned about privacy or hygiene. Most people still rely on human help instead of trying robotics because of their mindset and old habits.
However, with the increasing interest in wellness technologies – as evidenced by a 23% global rise in searches for massage solutions – a growing group of users are open to innovative, technology-driven health and wellness treatments. And likely, there are ways to attract more traditionalists who prefer human touch over technology.
First, spas can emphasize the complementary nature of AI-driven massages. By promoting the consistent and customizable aspects of robotic massages, wellness facilities can highlight how such technology works alongside human therapists to enhance overall wellness. Demonstrating the advanced safety features, and the ability to receive treatments at any time, can also reassure clients about the benefits of integrating technology into their wellness routines.
Second, robotic companies should work on shifting people's perceptions of robots. They should be viewed as everyday necessities, like cars or refrigerators, rather than exotic gadgets. This change in perspective is essential to ensure the widespread acceptance and integration of innovative technologies into daily life. And, this might be one of the most challenging parts of our work because, let's face it, many people refuse to change.
