Abstract: The invention is a sensor in a system for massaging a portion of a body of a person. The system includes a frame and a body supporting surface mounted on the frame. An applicator is also supported by the frame proximate to the body supporting surface in order to apply a force to the body portion. A sensor for sensing the applied force and providing a control signal in response to the sensed force is provided between the frame and the applicator. A control device moves the applicator with respect to the body portion in response to the control signal from the sensor. The sensor is provided with a sensor surface and a position determining device for determining the position of the sensor surface. The sensor then provides a control signal in response to the determined position. Another sensor surface, spaced apart from the first sensor surface by resilient material, may also be provided. The control signal is then determined according to the distance between the first and second sensor surfaces.