Reference book

The Massage Glossary

All terms related to massage, massage chairs, and massage devices, explained briefly and clearly. Each term has its own anchor link, so you can link directly to individual entries.

Massage techniques

What's behind the names and which technology is suitable for which purpose.

Shiatsu

Japanese pressure technique: rhythmic kneading along the muscle fibers instead of broad stroking. It works deeper than classical massage and is the core technique of modern massage chairs. More in Shiatsu Guide.

Kneading massage

A grasping, circular motion that lifts and kneads muscles like dough. It loosens tension and stimulates blood circulation. In the chair, counter-rotating massage heads perform this function.

tapping massage

Short, quick impulses to the muscles, like the edges of a masseur's hands. It has a stimulating and relaxing effect, good before activity. Many chairs combine tapping and kneading in one program.

rolling massage

Massage heads roll along the back with pressure, similar to two thumbs following the spine. This is the basic movement of any chair massage, and it's comfortable even for beginners.

Tai Chi massage

NAIPO technique on a patented rail system: slow, flowing arcs of movement instead of straight lines. Designed for gentle, even relaxation, for example in the Tai Chi Flow model.

Thai massage

Alternating stretching, pressure, and guided movement, traditionally performed on a floor mat. The most intense and widespread type of massage, felt right down to the fascia. All the important information in the Thai massage guide.

Lomi Lomi

Hawaiian technique with long, flowing strokes of the forearms. Hardly any pressure peaks, lots of rhythm, very relaxing. What exactly happens is explained in the Lomi Lomi items.

Reflexology

Targeted pressure on defined zones of the sole of the foot. Immediately noticeable after prolonged standing. In armchairs, the footrest provides this function; details in the Reflexology guide.

Lymph drainage (principle)

Gently increasing pressure from the feet upwards. Massage chairs and air compression devices work on this principle, providing relief for tired legs. Medical lymphatic drainage remains the domain of therapists. More information in [link/section]. Guides.

vibration massage

Subtle, rapid vibrations that loosen over a large area instead of applying pressure to a single point. Often used as an additional feature in the seat or footrest, providing a pleasant, gentle conclusion.

Full Body Massage

Treatment from neck to toe in one session. The chair uses a splint, air cushions, and foot rollers to work together for this. The basics and procedure are explained below. massage knowledge.

Chair technology

The terminology used on product pages and datasheets, honestly categorized.

2D massage

The massage heads move in two directions: up and down, and side to side. Precise and even, a solid foundation. The big comparison: 2D, 3D or 4D.

3D massage

In addition to the surface area, the heads also extend into depth, allowing you to adjust the pressure like a firm or gentle thumb. Significantly closer to the feel of real hands than 2D.

4D massage

3D plus variable speed in the movement sequence: The heads accelerate and decelerate like a human hand. This is currently the highest level. Terms like 5D or 8D are marketing without a technical definition.

S-rail

A guide rail that follows the natural S-curve of the spine. This ensures that the massage heads maintain consistent contact everywhere, from the cervical spine to the lumbar region.

L-rail

Extended splint that runs under the buttocks and down to the thighs. Greater reach than a standard back splint, but without the anatomical S-curve.

SL rail

A combination of both: an anatomical S-curve plus an extended seat extending to the buttocks, usually 110 to 135 cm. Today, this is the standard for good armchairs; the exact length for each model is specified in the [document/section/etc.]. Comparison database.

Body scan

Before the massage, the chair scans the length of the back and the position of the shoulders and adjusts the path of the massage heads accordingly. This is why one chair fits many body sizes. Here's how it works technically: Body scan explained.

Zero Gravity

A reclining position with elevated legs, modeled after the posture of astronauts during launch. It distributes body weight evenly, allowing the back to rest comfortably against the massage mechanism. Is it worth it? Zero-Gravity Guide.

Air pressure massage

Air cushions enclose the shoulders, arms, calves, or feet, alternately applying gentle pressure and releasing it. This complements the back massage with the sensation of grasping hands. Good chairs have 24 to 40 cushions.

Calf stretch

The foot section gently stretches the legs, while air cushions support the calves. Top-of-the-line models are electric and combine this with a kneading massage, mimicking the stretching techniques used by therapists.

heating function

Heating elements in the lumbar region, back, or calves. The heat loosens the muscles beforehand, making the massage deeper and more pleasant. The exact location of the heat output is shown in the product description. Comparison database.

Automatic program

Pre-choreographed sequences that combine techniques, areas, and intensities, from short neck workouts to full-body sessions. Good chairs offer 12 to 24 of these, plus manual fine-tuning.

intensity levels

They regulate pressure, speed, and, in the case of 3D/4D models, penetration depth, usually in 3 to 5 steps. This is important for households where both gentle and strong preferences are present.

Memory function

The chair saves favorite settings for each person. Once set up, the personalized massage starts at the touch of a button, without needing to be readjusted each time.

Body size range

Manufacturer specifications like 150 to 200 cm. These are guidelines for a perfect fit, not hard limits; it usually works without problems even for heights over 190 cm. The safest option is... test seat.

load

The manufacturer specifies a maximum user weight of 100 to 150 kg for NAIPO models, depending on the specific model. The stability of the frame and mechanics is crucial, not the padding.

massagers

Compact helpers for individual body areas.

massage gun

Cordless handheld device with fast, targeted thrusts deep into the muscle. Standard in sports recovery, with interchangeable attachments for each muscle group. Selection: Massage guns.

massage pad

Shiatsu mechanism as a cushion for chairs or sofas. The flexible backrest solution when space or budget don't yet allow for an armchair. Selection: Massage pads.

Neck massager

A U-shaped device that wraps around the neck and shoulders and kneads with rotating heads, often using heat. The classic remedy for desk-related tension. Selection: neck massagers.

Foot massager

Kneads the soles and sides of the feet with rotating heads, using heat, air compression, or water depending on the model. Guide and selection: Foot massage knowledge and all devices.

massage cushion

Compact pillow with kneading heads for the neck, back, or lumbar region, for home or office use. The smallest entry-level option in the world of massage devices. Selection: massage cushion.

eye massager

Eyeglass-shaped device with gentle air pressure, heat, and vibration around the eyes. Relieves strain after long days at the computer. Selection: Eye massagers.

Compression massage

Air cuffs around the calves or legs inflate and deflate alternately, mimicking the principle of lymphatic drainage. Soothing for tired, heavy legs. Selection: Devices with calf cuffs.

Infrared heat

Radiant heat that not only warms the surface but also noticeably heats the tissue beneath. Used in foot massagers and chairs to prepare the muscles.

EMS

Electrical muscle stimulation: weak electrical impulses cause muscles to contract and relax rhythmically. This is a different principle than mechanical massage; tingling is normal, and the intensity must always be adjustable.

Purchase and everyday life

Terms related to selection, operation, and purchase.

Refurbished

Returned or display chairs, which our own technicians inspect, refurbish, and resell, are significantly cheaper than new. Selection: refurbished armchairs.

test seat

The surest way to make the right choice: experience models in-store instead of just comparing data sheets. You can find NAIPO locations and partners in the [link to NAIPO website]. Store Locator.

Power consumption

NAIPO armchairs consume between 45 and 180 watts, depending on the model. At one hour per day, this equates to roughly €5 to €23 in electricity costs per year; the power consumption for each model is listed in the [document/section/etc.]. Comparison database.

Massage stool

Additional furniture without its own massage function, used as a storage shelf or seat extension for the armchair. Not to be confused with the motorized footrest of the armchair itself.

Coin-operated vending machine

Commercial massage chairs with payment functionality for hotels, centers, and waiting areas: Guests pay per massage using coins or QR codes. A unique business model with more robust technology than home massage chairs.

GPSR

The EU Product Safety Regulation. It obliges retailers to provide clear manufacturer and safety information on the product; the relevant information is available on every product page.

Wellness

A general term for everything that promotes relaxation, from massage to heat therapy. When it comes to products, it's worth looking at the specific functions rather than the label.

Can't find the term you're looking for? Write to us at service@naipo.de; we're constantly updating the glossary. Technical specifications for all armchair models are available in the... Comparison database, the fastest way to find the right model is shown by the Chair finder.