Massage Chair Terms

Massage Chairs for the most part seem very basic, and they are, because they're easy to use. But as shoppers can quickly learn through research, there is a lot of information to take in. There are not only a lot of brands but also a lot of features to consider when making the ideal massage chair purchase. Here at emassagechair.com we thought it would be helpful to provide a straightforward Glossary of Massage Chair Terms so anyone visiting us can become easily acquainted.

Glossary of Massage Chair Terms

Acupressure is a massage technique that delivers pinpoint pressure to a range of Acupoints across the body. The fingers are the primary tools in this therapy.

Acupoints range in the hundreds and are believed to be points that have a direct connection to specific systems in the body. They can be found along the bodies Meridian (see Meridian) and are used in Acupressure and Acupuncture.

Airbag Massage Systems are used to mimic deep tissue Swedish massage. They do this by inflating and deflating in a variety of methods and speeds, essentially compressing and manipulating the muscles and connective tissue. They can also work independently or in unison.

Automated Programs are a preset arrangement of massage techniques that come programmed into a massage chair. They are grouped together by style, but can also be customized to offer push button therapy based on someone’s preferences.

Body Scan uses a peripheral system to scan the body’s heart rate, posture, and fatigued or tense areas. This system is used to employ a custom massage or make minor adjustments based on the users bio feedback.

The Clapping Technique incorporates a cupped hand that applies sharp quick bursts of alternating pressure to the body.

The Compression Technique applies a very firm squeezing and sometimes rubbing motion to specific parts of the body.

Deep Pressure Massage is a therapy that applies strong sustained pressure across large groups of muscles primarily in a full-body session.

Deep Tissue Massage delivers therapy to both superficial and deep level muscles as well as connective tissue. This technique focuses on specific problem areas as opposed to full-body therapy.

The Hawaiian Massage Technique uses a swaying and gentle rubbing therapy across the back.

Heat Therapy is a set of built in heaters that warm, loosen, and prepare the body for therapy. They are typically placed in the upper and lower back, as well as the feet.

Kneading Massage uses the thumb and forefingers in a pinching method (think of someone kneading dough), applying pressure to stretch and elongate the muscles.

Massage Chairs have internal motors that provide different functions in the chair. There are Rotary Motors, Piston Motors, and Vibration Motors. Rotary Motors control the massage rollers and the kneading and tapping functions. Piston Motors control the leg rest and recline functions, and Vibration Motors control the vibrating movements.

Massage Therapy is comprised of several techniques that manipulate superficial and deep layers of muscle and connective tissue. These are performed to enhance muscle function, help aid the body’s healing process, promote relaxation, and provide a general sense of well-being.

The Meridian in Chinese Medicine is believed to be paths in which life-energy flows through the body. This is also known as “Qi or chi.” Acupressure and Acupuncture Therapy is based around targeting specific areas that are located along the Meridian.

Reflexology is a therapy that applies physical pressure to the feet, hands, and ears. These points are believed be connected to systems throughout the body, providing therapy to them as well.

The Massage Roller is a circle shaped robotic component that runs vertically along the upper and lower back. This is used to stretch and warm the back for deeper levels of massage.

Shiatsu Massage is a Japanese therapy that incorporates the thumbs, fingers, and palms in applying pressure as well as stretching to the body.

The Stiffness Detection Sensor is an electronic device that takes readings of the body to determine where muscle stiffness is occurring.

The Stress Sensor is an electronic device that takes readings of a person’s vitals. This includes heart and blood pressure, and is used to determine if stress therapy is necessary.

Swedish Massage is a varied therapy that includes multiple styles and stretches. This applies kneading, long strokes, and friction to different muscles as well as joints.

The Tapping Technique applies deep tissue massage by emulating fists tapping on the back and shoulders muscles.

Vibration gives a balanced shaking effect that can alternate in muscle penetration.

Zero Gravity is a neutral body posture that reclines the body and elevates the feet above the heart. It was developed by NASA and has been scientifically proven to put a person into a heightened state of relaxation and well-being.