If you’re new to massage chairs, understanding the terminology helps you get more from your online research or conversations with a Furniture For Life Comfort Consultant. The same is true if you own a massage chair but bought it many years ago—a likely scenario given how well-constructed and reliable these products are—since new features and functions have been developed since then.
Be warned that massage chair retailers and manufacturers often use these terms differently, which can create a lot of confusion when researching massage chairs, even with a glossary like this in front of you. The surest way to find the best massage chair for you is to try it in-person, then decide how you feel during and after your massage.
That said, below are two groups of definitions used in the massage chair industry. The first has words and phrases essential to understanding how massage chairs function and deliver exceptional experiences. The second has additional terms that are helpful to know as you research your options.
Essential Massage Chair Terms
2D/3D/4D Massage Chairs:
How a massage mechanism moves affects the types of sessions a massage chair can deliver. There are 2D, 3D, and 4D mechanisms, as well as specialized applications of 4D movement:
2D Massage Chair: A 2D massage chair mechanism moves in two dimensions: up and down the back and side to side. These chairs deliver basic yet effective massages, adjusting the roller movements to simulate the actions of a massage therapist. While 2D massage chairs are less advanced than 3D or 4D models, they can provide satisfying massages, particularly for users seeking relief in their back and neck areas.
3D Massage Chair: A 3D massage chair has a mechanism that can move in three dimensions: up and down, side to side, and in and out. The chair’s ability to adjust roller depth enables a customizable and potentially more intense massage experience with deeper pressure to targeted areas, mimicking the sensation of a massage therapist applying different levels of force. The result is highly personalized sessions that accommodate intensity preferences and effectively target specific muscle groups.
4D Massage Chair: A 4D massage chair can produce highly lifelike massages with a wide range of sensations thanks to the fourth dimension: variations in roller speed/pace or rhythm. This capability enables the chair to accurately reproduce the nuanced hand and finger movements of a massage therapist. Users experience changes in roller direction, depth, tempo, and pressure throughout sessions tailored to their needs and preferences.
Sens8™: This 4D massage mechanism is unique to OHCO and uses advanced massage algorithms to mimic the feel of human hands, delivering an exceptional full-body massage experience. Chairs with Sens8™ provide an array of benefits, including stress relief, pain management, and deep relaxation. They offer a range of massage modes, adjustable settings, and a user-friendly interface, allowing for a personalized massage experience.
Real Pro Ultra 4D Human Intelligence. This is a massage mechanism proprietary to Panasonic massage chairs that locates 1,260 individual points on the neck, back, and buttocks, creating a virtual map to enable correct movements with the right amount of pressure for each part of the body. No other massage mechanism performs a more precise scan or delivers a more customized massage.
Body Scanning and 3D Body Scanning:
Body scanning is a general term that refers to technology that adjusts the massage to the user’s body shape and size. A 3D body scan uses sensors and advanced technology to map the contours of the user’s body, including the back, shoulders, and spine. That information enables the chair to customize the massage experience, identifying areas that need attention and adjusting the position of the rollers and the intensity of the massage accordingly. The result is a personalized and highly effective massage experience.
ARMS OF EMBRACE™:
This feature unique to the OHCO M-Series offers six independently controlled air cells in each arm that allow for over 479 million unique sequences. It faithfully reproduces the sensation of being gently held or cradled while assisting with bloodflow and lymphatic fluid drainage.
Artificial Intelligence in Massage Chairs:
At the time of this publication, several massage chair brands claim to include artificial intelligence, but it is unclear if these claims are truthful. In theory, it is advanced technology that enhances the massage experience by learning and adapting to each user’s needs and preferences. The system can analyze user feedback and usage patterns to optimize future sessions automatically, adjusting characteristics like pressure, speed, and focus areas. The objective of AI in massage chairs is to deliver increasingly personalized and effective massage experiences, continually tailoring sessions to the user’s body type, tension areas, and relaxation requirements.
Massage Chair Tracks:
A massage chair’s track is the path available to its massage mechanism as it moves up and down the body. There are several types of tracks:
S-Track: This is a massage track that follows the spine’s curvature and typically stops at the hips. S-Track chairs recline where the chair back meets the seat, enabling the lie-flat position and an exceptional full-body stretch. Users appreciate S-Track massage mechanisms for many reasons, including the fact that they can provide consistent contact and pressure across the full roller range.
L-Track: This is the term for a massage track that extends from the neck to under the thighs in an “L” shape. An L-Track massage chair’s broad coverage can enable the massaging of areas like the glutes that S-tracks aren’t designed to reach. The shape of an L-track enables the zero gravity position, but does not allow for the lie-flat position and its associated stretch benefits.
SL-Track: This track design combines the broad body coverage of an L-Track and the curved, contour-hugging shape of an S-Track. The result is comprehensive, far-reaching massages and the ability to target specific areas with precision. Like L-tracks, SL-tracks allow for the zero gravity position, but not the lie-flat position.
J-Track or Flex-Track: These terms refer to a hybrid track that combines the benefits of L-Track and S-Track massage chairs more thoroughly than SL-tracks. Like an L-track or SL-track, these tracks reach from the neck to the glutes or upper hamstrings and allow for the zero gravity position. However, they are also able to achieve the lie-flat position like an S-track and thereby deliver a superior full-body stretch.
MAXTRACK™: This proprietary OHCO M-Series feature provides comprehensive massage from neck to glutes. Designed to move seamlessly from lay-flat position to zero gravity to upright and all positions in between, it provides maximum flexibility and coverage in massage chairs. This feature combines the benefits of S-Track and L-Track systems, ensuring that the rollers maintain contact with the body’s curves and providing optimal pressure even as the chair adjusts to different positions. It delivers massage experiences that are comprehensive and fully customized to the user’s needs and preferences.
Massage Techniques:
Massage chairs (like massage therapists) can deliver different types of massages based on a person’s needs, including deep tissue massage, reflexology, and shiatsu massage.
Deep Tissue Massage: This is a therapeutic massage technique that targets deep layers of muscle and connective tissue to relieve pain, improve range of motion, reduce inflammation, and relieve stress. It’s designed to alleviate chronic muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce pain by providing slow, firm pressure in targeted areas, particularly the neck, shoulders, back, and legs. This technique replicates the hand movements of a skilled massage therapist and is often recommended for individuals suffering from conditions like sports injuries, repetitive strain injuries, and sciatica.
Reflexology: This technique targets specific points on the feet to improve health and reduce stress. In reflexology, different foot areas correspond to specific organs and bodily systems. The technique is believed to reduce tension, improve circulation, and support overall wellness. It can also address specific issues like back pain, digestive problems, and headaches by promoting balance and harmony in the body’s energy flow. We incorporate reflexology into our massage chairs through foot rollers and other foot massage features. While it’s focused on the feet and toes, the practice helps release tension throughout the body and promotes overall wellness.
Shiatsu Massage: This traditional Japanese massage technique uses finger pressure on specific acupoints (also called shiatsu points or pressure points) to alleviate tension and improve circulation. It involves applying rhythmic pressure to acupoints to promote healing, relaxation, and general well-being. The shiatsu massage capability in a massage chair mimics a massage therapist’s use of their fingers, thumbs, palms, and specialized massage tools to exert pressure on the body.
Zero Gravity and True Zero Gravity®:
Zero gravity is the general term for a reclining position that elevates the legs above the heart, enhancing relaxation and improving wellness in various ways. True Zero Gravity® is a proprietary feature of Positive Posture massage chairs that is engineered to maximize comfort and health benefits by emulating the shape the body naturally takes in outer space, as discovered by astronauts and studied by NASA.,The position distributes gravitational forces evenly across the body to deliver benefits like enhanced circulation that can help reduce swelling in the legs and improve cardiovascular health, reduced pressure on the spine and joints like the knees and hips that can alleviate pain and discomfort, and improved lung capacity by “opening” the chest for easier and deeper breathing. The weightless sensation also helps relax the muscles and mind, which is good for the body and can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Other Common Massage Chair Terms
Acupressure: A method that applies pressure to specific body locations (acupressure points) to relieve tension.
Adjustable Recline Angle: Ability to set different reclining angles.
Adjustable Timer: Allows users to set massage duration.
Adjustable Width: Allows users to change the distance between massage rollers.
Advanced Roller System: Vague term referring to unspecified enhanced roller technology for effective massages.
Air Bags and Air Cells: Chambers that inflate and deflate to mimic the feeling of a massage therapist’s hands. (See Air Compression)
Air Compression: Massage chairs with airbags that inflate and deflate to simulate a kneading massage. (See Air Bags and Air Cells)
Anti-Slip Base: Base designed to prevent slipping on surfaces.
Auto-Recline: Automatic reclining feature.
Automatic Programs: Pre-set massage routines designed for specific goals or to mimic particular massage styles.
Back Autoscan: Another term for body scanning.
Back Massage: Focused massage for relieving tension and pain in the back.
Bluetooth Connectivity: Feature that allows users to connect devices and play music or other audio files through the massage chair’s speakers.
Body Stretching: Techniques to elongate muscles and relieve tension.
Calf and Foot Massage: Dedicated massage for the lower legs and feet.
Cervical Traction Device: Supports and stretches the neck area.
Chiropractic Back Therapy: Massage programs designed to mimic chiropractic techniques.
Chromotherapy: Use of colored lights to promote relaxation and mood enhancement.
Cloud Touch Acupressure: Utilizes air cells to simulate acupressure techniques.
Compact Footprint: Designed to occupy minimal space. (See Compact Recline Function, Space-Saving, Wall-Hugging, Zero Wall)
Compact Recline Function: Recline feature designed to save space. (See Compact Footprint, Space-Saving, Wall-Hugging, Zero Wall)
Cordless Operation: Operates without the need for a constant power connection.
Customizable Massage Techniques: Personalization of massage styles and techniques.
Detachable Remote: Remote that can be removed for convenience.
Dual-Layer Head Pillow: Pillow designed to enhance comfort and support.
Durable Construction: Built to withstand regular use.
Dynamic Stretch Program: Massage routine that incorporates stretching.
Easy Entry/Exit Design: Features that make it easier to get into and out of the chair.
Eco-Friendly Materials: Made with environmentally friendly materials.
Energy-Saving Mode: Feature designed to reduce energy consumption.
Enhanced Armrest Massage: Vague term referring to specialized massage features in the armrests.
Ergonomic Design: Design focused on comfort and support.
Foam Rollers: Rollers made of foam for a softer massage experience.
Foot Massage: Manipulation of the soft tissues in the feet to improve circulation circulation and promote relaxation. (See Foot Reflex Zone Therapy, Reflexology)
Foot Reflex Zone Therapy: Targets reflex zones on the feet.
Full-Body Stretch: Function that stretches multiple parts of the body to relieve tension.
Full-Body Airbag Compression: Comprehensive airbag system for a full-body massage.
Gentle Rocking Motion: Soothing rocking feature for relaxation.
Head-to-Toe Coverage: Massage features that cover the entire body.
Heat Therapy: Application of heat to relax muscles and enhance massage effects. (See Heated Massage)
Heated Massage: Chairs with built-in heating elements to soothe muscles and enhance relaxation. (See Heat Therapy)
High-Fidelity Speakers: Built-in speakers for immersive sound.
Hip Twist: Function that moves the hips to release lower body tension.
Intensity Adjustment: Feature allowing users to customize the strength of the massage.
Integrated USB Ports: USB ports for charging devices.
Knead and Tap Combo: Combines kneading and tapping techniques for enhanced relief.
Kneading Massage: Technique that mimics circular thumb pressure for muscle relaxation.
Leather Upholstery: Real leather used for chair covering.
Leg Extension: Adjustable leg rest to accommodate different heights.
Lightweight Design: Chair designed to be easily movable.
Lumbar Support: Extra cushioning or curvature to support and maintain the curvature of the lower back.
Massage Mechanism: The motor, rollers, and other components of a massage chair that generate the movements and pressure a user experiences during a massage.
Massage Rollers: Round components of a massage mechanism that apply pressure to the body during a massage.
Memory Settings: Ability to save user preferences for future sessions.
Micro-Sonic Vibration: Sound waves that create micro-vibrations for deep muscle relaxation.
Mindfulness Meditation Program: Massage program that encourages relaxation and present-moment awareness.
Mobile App Control: Allows control of the chair via a smartphone app.
Multi-Language Remote: Remote control supporting multiple languages.
Muscle Relief Mode: Program focused on relieving muscle tension.
Neck and Shoulder Massage: Specialized focus on relieving tension in the neck and shoulder area.
Padded Headrest: Additional padding for head support.
Pelvis and Waist Massage: Specific focus on the pelvis and waist area.
Portable Design: Designed for easy transportation.
Posture Correction Feature: Aligns the body to improve posture.
Power Recline: Electrically powered reclining mechanism.
Premium Upholstery: Vague term referring to high-quality materials used for the chair’s exterior, frequently synthetic leather or real leather.
Pressure Point Detection: Sensors that identify and target pressure points. Typically part of a body scan feature that helps the chair provide sessions tailored to users’ needs.
Quad Rollers: Four massage heads that provide a deeper, more dynamic massage.
Quick Access Controls: Easily accessible controls for adjusting settings.
Rapid Recovery Program: Massage program designed for quick recovery.
Reflexology Nodes: Points in the footrest that target reflex points.
Recliner: Feature that allows the chair to lean back for comfort and relaxation.
Relaxation Modes: Different modes designed for relaxation.
Remote Control: Device to operate and customize the massage chair functions.
Rejuvenation Mode: Massage program designed to rejuvenate the body.
Removable Cushion: Cushions that can be flipped for different firmness.
Rhythm and Tempo Adjustment: Control over the speed and rhythm of the massage.
Rocking Function: Gentle rocking motion for relaxation.
Roller Massage: Simple form of massage using rollers that move up and down the body to relax muscles and improve circulation and spinal mobility.
Seat Swivel: Rotating seat feature for easier access.
Silent Motor Technology: Quiet motors for a peaceful experience.
Smart Sensor Technology: Sensors that adapt massages to user needs.
Sole Rollers: Rollers specifically targeting the soles of the feet.
Space-Saving Design: Compact design requiring minimal space. (See Compact Footprint, Compact Recline Function, Wall-Hugging, Zero Wall)
Spinal Decompression Stretch: Stretch targeting the spine to relieve tension and pain.
Spot Massage: Focused massage on a specific area.
Synchronic Massage: Synchronized massage movements for a balanced experience.
Synthetic Leather: Manufactured material designed to look and feel like real leather and with features like extreme durability and minimal need for maintenance.
Tapping Massage: Technique using rhythmic tapping to relieve tension.
Targeted Relief Zones: Specific areas targeted for relief during a massage.
Therapeutic Massage Programs: Programs designed for therapeutic benefits.
Tri-Zone Heat Therapy: Heat applied to three zones—typically back, seat, and legs.
User-Friendly Interface: Easy-to-use controls and display.
Vibration Massage: Technique using vibrations to relax muscles and increase circulation.
Voice Control: Feature allowing users to control the chair with voice commands.
Wall-Hugging: Design that allows the chair to fully recline with minimal space between it and the wall. (See Compact Footprint, Compact Recline Function, Space-Saving, Zero Wall) and chair.
Wavelet Massage: Wave-like motion used to mimic human touch.
Wellness Programs: Pre-set massage routines focused on overall wellness.
Zero Wall: Design that allows the chair to recline without needing additional space behind it. (See Compact Footprint, Compact Recline Function, Space-Saving, True Zero Gravity®, Wall-Hugging)
Enhance Your Massage Chair Vocabulary… and Your Life
Regular sessions in the full body massage chair at your home or office provide an array of health and wellness benefits, from deep relaxation and better sleep to improved circulation and faster workout recovery. Now that you know how to converse like an expert about things like zero gravity massage chairs, massage rollers, shiatsu massage chair functionality, and more, you’re perfectly positioned to find the ideal massage chair for your needs.
