FAQs: What are the Types of Massage Chairs?

A 2D massage chair uses rollers that travel on a track and are programmed to move up and down as well as side to side. 2D rollers don’t apply much pressure and provide more of a therapeutic experience rather than deep tissue.

A 3D massage chair uses rollers that are programmed to move up and down, side to side, and in and out. Think of a 3D object. 3D massage chairs can deliver soothing deep tissue therapy at different levels of intensity based on how strong or gentle you want your massage to feel.

A 4D massage chair has the same capabilities as a 3D massage chair with rollers that are programmed to move up and down, side to side, and in and out. 4D rollers can also move in variant movements to mimic the actual manipulations of real human hands. This makes the rollers feel very fluid and smooth with a less mechanical feel.

2D massage chairs offer massage in two dimensions, typically up and down and side to side, with no variation in pressure. 3D massage chairs have the ability to vary the intensity of the massage by moving the rollers forward and backward, in addition to up and down and side to side. 4D massage chairs offer the same features as 3D chairs, with the added feature of being able to vary the speed of the rollers with a farther-reaching forward motion and typically have a more human-like feel.

The main difference between 2D and 3D massage chairs is the level of control and depth of massage that they can provide. 2D massage chairs are designed to move in two dimensions, up and down or side to side, and can provide basic massage techniques such as kneading, rolling, and tapping. The intensity of the massage can be adjusted, but the massage head or rollers can only move in a fixed plane, which means that the massage may not be as targeted or precise as it could be.  On the other hand, 3D massage chairs are designed to move in three dimensions, creating more control and depth in the massage. In addition to moving up and down and side to side, the massage head or rollers can also move inwards and outwards to provide a more intense and targeted massage. This added dimensionality allows for an in-depth massage that can target specific areas of the body with more precision and control.

The main difference between 3D and 4D massage chairs is the level of customization and variability in the massage experience. 4D massage chairs have all the features of 3D massage chairs, with the added ability to vary the speed and rhythm of the massage. This allows for an even more customized and targeted massage experience that can be tailored to each user’s preference.   However, it's important to note that the terms "3D" and "4D" are marketing terms and not standard industry terms, and different manufacturers may use them in different ways. As with any massage chair, it's important to choose a model that suits your specific needs. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before using a massage chair if you have a medical condition or are pregnant.

An L-Track massage chair is a track that the massage rollers follow. The L-Track runs from the neck down to the lower back and then under the seat to provide massage to the glutes and upper hamstrings. The track is called the "L-Track" because it follows the shape of the letter "L."

An S-Track massage chair has a roller system that can deliver massage from your neck all the way down to your lower back, but cannot go beyond the base of your spine like an L-Track can. But, since an S-Track doesn’t have limitations with how far back it can flex, these types of massage chairs have superior stretching capabilities.

An S-Track is named for its "S" shape and is designed to follow the natural curve of the spine. This means that the rollers can move up and down the back, neck, and shoulders, contouring to the curves of the body for a more targeted massage experience. An L-Track, on the other hand, is named for its "L" shape and is designed to extend further down the back to extend the massage to the glutes and hamstrings.

Dual Track roller systems are the latest in massage chair technology and have more overall coverage than other roller tracks. A dual roller track uses two tracks instead of just one. You’ll feel like you’re being massaged by a whole team of massage therapists as one set of rollers works on your back while the other set works on your legs. And, because these two roller tracks are completely separated, they can bend and flex further than other chairs for inversion therapy and spinal decompression.

Petite users can utilize the massage chairs in this category for a more precise massage session that is customized for your particular body type and size.  Some of the larger massage chairs won't fit you as well as others if you are petite and have a smaller frame. Browse our selection of Petite Massage Chairs.

Big & Tall massage chairs are meant to provide family-friendly massages. Because of this, these chairs have larger frames and wider seats to fit everyone in your family, from the smallest members to the tallest members. These chairs properly detect your size and shape to deliver a comfortable tailored massage, regardless of your height (5'0" or over 6'0").

Inada, Synca, and JPMedics are massage chair brands that manufacture their massage chairs in Japan. You can try a Japanese massage chair such as the JPMedics Kumo at The Modern Back in Sarasota, FL. Browse our selection of Japanese Massage Chairs.

There are many different types of massages, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, Shiatsu massage, heated massage, Thai massage, Chinese massage, Balinese massage, reflexology, and aromatherapy massage. Each type of massage has its unique benefits and techniques which focus on key areas of the body.