Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, November 1, 1994 TAG: 9501050001
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 4 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: DAVID BUTLER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
A: Second question first. A number of companies produce massage cushions that can help relieve muscle tension. While no match for a real masseur, these cushions are more than just a vibrator. They contain small motors or transducers that create cyclical wave action along your spine. You can use one at work, at home or on the road. One model has an extended back that reaches the neck area. Prices start at about $100.
Full-length massage pads are also available. Just think about how nice it would be to come home at the end of a day to the luxury of a soothing massage. One model is designed to be used on hard surfaces such as a floor or table. Another works best on soft surfaces such as a bed, recliner or sofa. Simply roll it out and plug it in. A hand-held controller allows you to taylor the massage to specific areas of your back, neck or shoulders.
For the ultimate in relaxation, you may want to consider a massage recliner. Although considerably more expensive than a cushion, massage recliners use small rollers to knead your back in a pattern that simulates Shiatsu, an ancient Japanese massage technique. Tapping or rolling action can be selected from a built-in or tethered control pad. One model even includes a cassette stereo with hidden speakers. Now that's luxury!
Now for your first question. Several hospital bed manufacturers offer stylish beds for the home. Although intended for therapeutic purposes, these beds allow you to raise your upper body and legs to a comfortable position for reading, writing or watching TV. This relieves the muscle tension that can result when you put your body in a poorly supported position.
In an effort to target the home market, several manufacturers have introduced motorized beds in all sizes, including extra-long fulls and split-control queens and kings. Depending on the model, motorized beds use either a standard mattress supported by a tension spring foundation or a flexible innerspring mattress. In most cases, you can use your existing linens and accessories.
Besides making your bedroom a more comfortable place for wide-awake relaxation, a motorized bed can provide relief from muscle tension, lower back pain, sore or swollen legs, edema and circulatory problems. Some beds also provide heat and massage therapy. One model even has a separate lift for the head area, ideal for someone with sinus problems.
One company makes an adjustable mattress that can be placed on top of your existing bed. This unique slim-line mattress uses a pneumatic system to raise your upper body or legs. Once in position, the mattress can be locked in place. You can easily move it from bed to bed in a matter of minutes. A twin costs $300, about a third of what you might pay for a motorized bed.
To receive a list of companies that manufacture massage recliners and cushions and motorized beds, please send $1.50 and a self-addressed envelope to David Butler F-413, Department TWN, 14713 Pleasant Hill Road, Charlotte, N.C. 28278-7927. The list includes toll-free phone numbers and a summary of each company's products. You'll also receive information on foot massagers and hand-held massage instruments.
Q: Please explain the purpose of the "house code" setting found on most power line carrier (PLC) switches and modules.
A: In addition to a unit number, you must assign a house code to each PLC module. Since PLC signals can reach other homes connected to the same electrical transformer, the house code provides a way to keep modules from acting on commands from another house. You can also use house codes to extend the number of modules your system can control.
by CNB