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Best electric back massagers for pain relief - Buying Guide: 2024

If you don't know which electric massager for the back to choose, don't worry: in our buying guide you'll find the best tips on how to get an electric massager that meets your needs. We'll show you in detail what to look for when choosing your next electric massager.

But that's not all, we'll also tell you about the benefits of using massagers for back pain and when it's advisable to use this therapy to relieve back pain. Do not miss anything, because in the end you will be able to know exactly whether an electric back massager can replace the hands of a physiotherapist.

What is the best electric massager for back pain relief?

HoMedics - Hand-held electric massager with different heads
  • Measurements: Not specified
  • Pulsations per Minute: 3100
  • Number of accessories: 4 heads
  • Type of Massage: Percussion
  • Heat effect: Yes
  • Relieves tension in various areas
  • Automatic shut-off function
  • 4 adjustable speeds
  • With heat therapy
  • Massage too intense for some people
  • Does not specify measurements
Combining heat with percussion therapy is a benefit you can enjoy with the HoMedics dual head hand massager. You only need to choose the hardness of the head to achieve myofascial release according to the muscle group and the tension on the structure. Thanks to the variable speed control and ergonomic handle, you won't need anyone's help to increase blood circulation and reduce stress.

The durable material and soundproofing are two notable aspects of the structure, although it is also important to emphasize its futuristic, lightweight design. The stroke distance of the head is ideal for massaging with the low-intensity option, but be aware that the percussion range may be insufficient for certain injuries.

KoolerThings - Handheld Deep Tissue Massager with heat effect
  • Measurements: Not specified
  • Pulsations per Minute: 3300
  • Number of Accessories: 7 heads
  • Type of Massage: Percussion
  • Heat effect: Yes
  • 7 interchangeable heads
  • 6 massage speeds
  • No size specified
Reduce stress and maintain your lifestyle with a KoolerThings cordless deep tissue massager. The 2600 mAh battery capacity will serve you for up to 140 minutes of use, although the auto shut-off function will lock the massage gun after 20 minutes. This happens to take care of your health because it is not recommended to exceed that time. The 3600 pulses per minute percussion range is suitable for loosening neck and leg muscles.

Its ergonomic design, with elongated and non-slip handle, has a control knob with buttons to choose the power and frequency level, which you can combine with the heat function. You only need to pass over the sensitive area in a circular and straight line to soften the fascia. Please note that, the vibration level may become limited as the time of use elapses.

MEGAWISE - Deep tissue percussion massage for back, neck, shoulders, shoulders, waist and legs
  • Measurements: Not specified
  • Pulsations per Minute: 3600
  • No. of Accessories: 5 heads
  • Type of Massage: Percussion
  • Heat Effect: No
  • Auto shut-off function after 15 minutes
  • 5 adjustable speeds
  • No size specified
Enjoy percussion massage therapy with a MEGAWISE handheld back massager. Its ergonomic design offers the comfort and control needed to reach deep tissues with any of its 5 heads. Thanks to its structure and advanced technology you won't need anyone's help to handle the 3600 RPM of its powerful motor. You can combine back, shoulder and waist massage therapy with the effects of heat.

The 15-minute automatic shut-off timer will help you control your therapy sessions. Just pass the hand-held massage gun over the skin in a circular motion to soften the muscle groups and the relaxation you will achieve will be almost immediate. It is suitable for treating neck knots, tired legs and plantar fasciitis, but be aware that the percussion may cause pain in some conditions.

Hangsun - Handheld Manual massager for back and neck
  • Dimensions: 43x16,5x13,4cm - 17x6,5 5,3in
  • Pulsations per Minute: 3500
  • No. of Accessories: 6 heads
  • Massage Type: Percussion
  • Heat Effect: No
  • Different vibration modes
  • Includes 6 different heads
  • Suitable for various body areas
  • Quality materials
  • Massage too intense for some people
  • Complicated cleaning
The most effective way to make back and leg pain go away is to use percussion therapy through the Hangsun handheld massage gun. The electric power of this massager will help you soften deep tissue thanks to the dual heads that you can interchange to enhance your experience. The anatomical handle and long plastic frame allow you to reach any area of the body without having to ask for help.

The control knob is located on the handle itself, so there is no need to stop therapy to increase or decrease speed levels. The 3500 pulsations per minute motor and the depth of the stroke of the nodes make this handheld electric massager an ideal health complement. Please note that in some cases the automatic shut-off did not work.

Zyllion - Massager Machine with 4 Shiatsu massage nodes and heat therapy
  • Size: 33x24x8,8cm - 13x9,5x3,5in
  • Weight: 1,58Kg - 3,5 lbs
  • Material: Synthetic leather
  • Power supply: With cable and car adapter
  • Heat effect: Yes
  • Includes car adapter
  • Velcro straps for optimal fit
  • Overheating protection
  • With heat therapy
  • Massage too intense for some people
  • Complicated cleaning
In your free time you can relax your neck, shoulder and back muscles with a Zyllion Shiatsu massage cushion. It is intended to be used intensively, although it is not recommended for health to exceed 20 minutes of daily session, so the automatic shutdown system is activated at that limit. Its materials are of good quality because they do not produce skin allergy and effectively transmit the vibrations and heat of the 4 nodes.

Its size is suitable for transportation. You can use its vibration rollers in a circular way to improve blood circulation, as it adapts easily to the calf and sole of the foot to reduce pain in the fibers of the calf and plantar fasciitis. It is ideal for wearing to work or after the gym, although the perforated mesh can be broken by vibration.

Snailax - Electric massager pillow for neck, shoulders and lower back
  • Dimensions: 36,3x20,1x12,8cm - 14,33x7,95x5,04in
  • Weight: 1,67Kg - 3,7lbs
  • Material: Synthetic leather
  • Power supply: Corded
  • Heating effect: Yes
  • Helps reduce stress
  • Travel-friendly size
  • Optimized heat therapy
  • Adjustable for use on various areas of the body
  • Massage too intense for some people
  • Noisy vibration
The ergonomic shape and size of the Snailax Shiatsu massager is ideal for carrying it everywhere. Thanks to this benefit you will be able to relax your mind and improve the health of the deep tissues and trigger points of the body in your free time. Please note that the nodes of the vibrating cushion should touch the area you want to massage, this will cause the deep kneading to reach the nerve roots so that the body secretes endorphin to achieve a sense of well-being.

Its design is suitable for infrared heat therapy because the four 3D rotating nodes transmit the ideal temperature to loosen muscles. It is covered with polyester material, which can accumulate sweat during use. The Shiatsu massage cushion is versatile and transportable, but keep in mind that you will always need a power supply because it does not have a rechargeable battery.

SLOTHMORE - Back car seat massager with heat and vibration
  • Size: 90x69cm - 35.4x27.1in
  • Material: Not specified
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Massage Type: Air compression, Vibration
  • Heat Effect: Yes
  • Automatic shut-off function after 20 minutes
  • Adjustable neck massager
  • Includes car adapter
  • Overheat protection
  • No material specified
  • Wired remote control
Made from the highest quality materials, the SLOTHMORE electric car and sofa massager is ideal for everyday use. The backrest tilt and angle capability allows the headrest and lumbar support to align for muscle relaxation to aid massage therapy. It is integrated with air pockets to achieve the ideal compression and vibration for each user.

Don't waste more time choosing back massagers with heat that won't do you any good, they will only make you spend money on products that are unsafe for your health. Choose the ergonomic design of this back massager to combine its nodes and reduce stress while you are driving your car or working from your office. It has a practical adapter to connect to the vehicle or the mains, although its cable may be short.

SNAILAX - Shiatsu back massager with heat therapy
  • Size: Not specified
  • Material: Synthetic leather
  • Power Source: Wired
  • Massage Type: Shiatsu, Vibration
  • Heat effect: Yes
  • 8 flexible massage nodes
  • Vibration massage on the seat
  • Provides optimal massage
  • Easy to clean device
  • Mild heat therapy
  • Does not specify dimensions
Enjoy a relaxing massage in the comfort of your home or while working in your office, choose the Snailax electric vibrating cushion. Thanks to its 8 flexible nodes you will get your back relaxed all day long in a fast and efficient way. Note that you can combine the three levels of intensity in the lumbar area with heat to get more results.

Its structure allows you to recline the angle of the backrest for better vibration absorption during therapy. Place the massage seat and adjust its straps to your car seat or armchair at home, then choose the functions with the remote control, connected by electric cable. You'll be ready for a day full of energy, but keep in mind that the degree of vibration and the synthetic skin can affect the epidermis.

iRest - Zero Gravity Full Body Massage Chair
  • Dimensions: 118x76x170cm - 46.4x29.9x66.9in
  • Colors: Black, Brown
  • Massage Type: Shiatsu
  • Chair Type: Zero Gravity, Heat Effect
  • Pack: Bluetooth, wired remote control
  • Optimized heat therapy
  • Foot and calf massage
  • Automatic body scanning system
  • 6 massage modes
  • Wired control
  • Delicate wash
The distance and path of the rollers and rails of the iRest massage chair form a unique relaxation product to relieve stress and decrease tension in the back and leg muscles. It is designed with high quality and resistant materials that allow a zero-gravity recline, which serves to achieve emotional balance. In addition, you can accompany the massages with music when you connect your phone via Bluetooth.

Automatic body scanning ensures that the air bags and rollers are precisely adapted to the spine, so Shiatsu massages in the form of SL, vibration and compression will have better results. You can also include thermotherapy to promote cardiac pressure and blood circulation. Although it has a space-saving design, its volume is still large for use in some environments.

Real Relax - Massage chair with air compression and heat therapy
  • Dimensions: 160x76,2x137cm - 63x30x54in
  • Colors: Blue, Brown, Black
  • Massage Type: Vibration, Air Compression
  • Chair Type: Zero Gravity
  • Pack: Chair, Remote
  • Optimized heat therapy
  • Different vibration modes
  • Automatic shut-off function
  • Overheating protection
  • Non-wireless control
  • Complicated cleaning
Improve your lifestyle and enjoy all your daily activities in a relaxed way, for this we recommend the use of the Real Relax massage chair. You can use it every day in your living room or in the office, but keep in mind that the duration of the therapy should not exceed 30 minutes. If you do not want to control this time, do not worry, because it has an automatic shut-off system so that the massage experience generates maximum benefits.

The 50 strategically distributed air bags will give you the comfort you are looking for by simply pressing the functions from its intuitive control. The footrests are extendable to achieve the zero-gravity position and stimulate blood circulation in the legs and back. You can also combine Shiatsu massage with heating, although the heat intensity may be moderate for some users.

Video: How to use back massager for pain relief?

Types of massage machine products you need to know about

Tips for buying the best electric back massager machine

There are a variety of products that can be used to relieve back pain. They differ in their size, functions and technology. You can choose between a massage seat for the car, a handheld electric massager, a massage chair, a compact impact massage gun and also shiatsu massage pillows. Each of these products has different aspects that you should analyze so that you don't spend too much money and choose the product that really meets your needs.

To choose the best electric massager for back pain relief, pay attention to the following aspects:

Material

The material is an important point that you should consider to increase the comfort level and also to ensure a longer life of the electric massager.

Learn more about the best materials for each massager:

  • If you need to choose a cover for your car seat, you should find a product with a non-slip bottom, which can be rubber or neoprene to prevent slipping. On the top side, you should choose a leather seat cover that is covered with a skin-friendly mesh fabric. The same criteria should apply to electric massage sofas.
  • If you need to buy a manual or compact massage gun, you should make sure that it has an ergonomic handle and is made of a breathable and non-slip material. This will help you keep control over the electric massager. Its structure is made of plastic and the heads can be made of rubber or silicone.
  • On the other hand, if you choose a professional or sport percussion massager, you should choose handles that prevent slipping, but also a bottom cushion covered with a skin-friendly fabric. They are usually made of fabric or micro-perforated plastic.
  • Shiatsu pillows are made of nylon or covered with eco-leather. You can also often find a perforated mesh on the top and neoprene or rubber in the area under the pillow.

Shape and size

This criterion depends on the massager you want to buy, because the size of electric massage chairs is voluminous and can go from the head to the soles of the feet. On the other hand, if you choose vibrating massage seats for vehicles, the size will be much smaller because it will only include the coverage from the neck to the knee.

On the other hand, you can choose a professional massager whose volume resembles that of a basketball, while a massage gun can be compared to the screen of a modern cell phone. It depends on which model you choose to get a larger or smaller volume, depending on the reference object.

You should keep in mind that in electric hand massagers, the handle is at an inverted angle to the head. A professional massager, on the other hand, resembles a bucket with the handles protruding. Vibrating massage chairs and chairs bear their name because of their resemblance to these objects. Relaxation pillows with knots for shiatsu massage have a flat shape and are usually rectangular. Due to their size, they can cover a large part of the back.

Types of massages

The different types of massages you can get with an electric massager for back pain relief are percussion, vibration and shiatsu massages. You can also combine them with complementary heat therapy. How the massages are applied depends on the type of device you choose, since some can knead, others stretch and still others roll.

Electric massage chairs and car seats offer features that allow you to perform S, L or combination massages. While the cushions have the automatic option to massage depending on the program you choose.

Power and speed

Power and speed are two crucial factors when choosing a good massager. It is important that the product includes at least two speed levels to perform relaxation and recovery massages. Also, power is required to reach the deeper body tissues and achieve better therapeutic benefits.

Depending on the product, you will have different types of speed and power in their motors and rollers. For example, you will need 1800 revolutions per minute to relax your back muscles if you are sitting in an electric massage chair or car seat. On the other hand, if you choose a vibration gun, the speed must be more than 2500 rpm. In any case, a minimum power of 50 W at 2 amps and 50 Hz is required.

Effect of heat therapy

Please note that heat therapy is ideal for better relaxation and blood circulation in the back. Therefore, it is possible to combine acupressure with heat therapy, so that the massages not only stimulate the trigger points, but also promote faster recovery.

You can get the heating system depending on the model of electric massager. For example, in chairs or armchairs there is a hot air circuit or cushions with heating gels, as is the case with massage chairs for cars. However, in shiatsu pillows, the heating system is generated by infrared devices, just like manual electric back massagers.

Battery life

Hand guns, mini impact massagers and shiatsu massage pillows are the products where you can find this kind of power supply. Battery life is an important aspect to consider when choosing your personal massager, since it will help you avoid having to interrupt your sessions when the battery runs out, and you'll be able to extend its useful life.

On this basis, you should choose electric massagers machine with a battery with a capacity of at least 2000 mAh, which can last between 3 and 4 hours, depending on the style of use. Charging usually takes 4 hours or more.

Price

Another aspect to consider when choosing a good electric massager machine is the price, because not all are equal if you want to reduce tension in your back. Remember that you can relieve pain in the deeper tissues with a high-quality chair, which requires a higher investment, or with a shiatsu massage cushion, which is much cheaper.

The most important thing to consider before buying is that your health is at stake. Therefore, you should choose high-quality electric massagers that will not put your muscles and tissues at risk.

Benefits of massagers for back pain

Massagers for back pain relief have the following advantages:

  • They resemble the handwork of a physical therapist: So you can have your own masseur at home without spending any money.
  • You can use them as often as you want: At this point, however, you should be careful because you must always stick to the recommended time.
  • They reach the deeper tissue: The vibrations and shocks act on the trigger points to release the fascia from its hardness. This is achieved by distributing the rollers in nodes that can act individually to achieve better results.
  • They improve blood circulation throughout the back: Muscle stimulation through kneading leads to the dilation of venules and arterioles, which distributes blood better over the back.
  • They help reduce stiffness in the lumbar muscles: A direct result of better blood circulation is the relief of muscle tension, as the fibers return to their normal state within a short time.
  • They contribute to the elimination of toxic substances: Toxic molecules located in deeper tissues are easily removed by electric massagers.
  • They produce little noise: In general, electric massagers produce little noise, which promotes relaxation.
  • It is possible to choose the speed and power level: This is an important advantage, as the massager adapts to the degree of injury and your experience with this type of massage.
  • They can be used with both heat and aromatherapy: Almost all models of electric massagers are equipped with pillows or a hot air system to heat the lower back. This is an important advantage, as it combines two very effective treatments. In addition, electric sofas can add the release of relaxing aromas during the session.
  • They are lightweight and portable: You can find handheld electric massage guns and mini guns that are small and their weight does not affect their portability. You can also opt for shiatsu massage pads that are much easier to carry.
  • You can use them while driving or relaxing in your living room: In the field of electric massagers, there are larger models that offer more comfort and features. You can choose massage chairs or car seats, both of which are ideal for relaxing your back while doing something else.
  • It is not necessary to accompany the massages with special creams or lotions: In fact, acupressure works by pressing on the trigger points in the body that cause pain and stiffness in the lower back.
  • It can be used by anyone: No prior experience or training is required to properly use electric massagers.
  • They can be powered by lithium batteries: Not only are there electric massagers that run on domestic AC power, but there are also a variety of models of portable devices that can be used outdoors or anywhere because they are powered by internal batteries.
  • They relieve stress: By releasing endorphins through the body, the person feels relieved and anxiety levels decrease, which in turn leads to less stress.
  • They contribute to a better ability to fall asleep in the evening: The physical relaxation induced by back massages allows the body to enter a calm state in less time during the night.
  • They are helpful in shortening the recovery time: By achieving vasodilation, the blood exchanges nutrients more easily and quickly, which promotes the regression of muscle structure during the rehabilitation process.
  • Improving posture: They correct a person's posture by stretching the muscles, achieving sufficient elongation to keep the back straight.

F.A.Q: Frequently asked questions

Are electric back massagers really effective?

Electric back massagers work very well because they are able to reach the deep tissues and create a myofascial release. This is due to the speed and power functions they have, so their rollers can precisely penetrate the trigger points. Also, think of the convenience of having your own massager at home, in the office, or at the gym. You can use the massager anytime without spending any money.

When is a massage machine for back pain relief?

You can opt for a massage to relieve back pain if you suffer from the following conditions:

  • Reduction of intervertebral space caused by spurs and osteophytes.
  • Subacute and chronic first degree lumbago, but always accompanied by exercises and body correction.
  • Scoliosis or asymmetric contracture of the vertebral muscles.
  • Inflammation of sacro-lumbalgia caused by wear of the intervertebral joint, if indicated by the doctor and the disease is not yet advanced.
  • Inflammation of the sciatic nerve.
  • Hypomobility of the facets or overloading of the small joints of the spine.
  • Strains of the musculature
  • Stiffness of the muscular structure due to colds.

When is massage for back pain relief not recommended?

Massage for back pain relief is not recommended in the following cases:

  • Impingement of the intervertebral disc
  • Herniated disc in the spine.
  • Displacement of the lumbar spine
  • Open wounds
  • Excessively rigid movements of the vertebrae
  • Chronic second-degree lumbalgia or higher.
  • Motor or sensory impairment of the sciatic nerve.
  • Osteoporosis and arthritis.
  • Congenital conditions affecting the back.
  • Any type of hypertrophy.
  • Degeneration of the intervertebral disc.
  • Cracks in the ring of a vertebra.
  • Fibrosis.
  • Ligamentous insufficiency and vertebrobasilar insufficiency.
  • Down syndrome.
  • Pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.
  • Compression of the spinal cord or cervical spondylotic myelopathy.
  • Presence of tumors in the spine.
  • Severe pain in the lower back.

How to properly use a massager for lower back pain relief?

A massager for low back pain must be used properly to achieve therapeutic results almost immediately. The first thing to do is to relax the muscle group of the back. To do this, you can sit down, although it is recommended to lie down to stretch the muscles as much as possible.

If you choose a massage chair, you must first select the body scan function and then the type of massage you want to receive on your back. Remember that it can be percussion, kneading massage or shiatsu. You have the option to tilt the electric massage chair to achieve zero gravity and stimulate blood circulation with the help of heat therapy. Start with a gentle speed for 2 to 3 minutes and then gradually increase the power for another 15 minutes. Finally, return to a gentle frequency for at least one minute.

On the other hand, if you want tobuy an electric hand massager, you will need the help of another person to benefit from the percussion and vibration therapy that stimulates the deeper tissues to release tension and loosen knots in the back. Try starting with revolutions in the low minute range, and then increase the frequency. Remember that the speed and duration for each muscle should be no more than 20-30 seconds. You should massage the entire lumbar region in a circular motion in a straight line and repeat this process several times.

If you want to buy a mini-massage gun, you should choose a series of gentle strokes and after 15 seconds start to increase the frequency of head strokes. On the other hand, if you want to receive vibration or shiatsu massages, the duration of each session can be about 15 to 20 minutes. Remember to slow down before finishing and stretch your back muscles as much as possible. The massages should be rolled and create a light kneading sensation during the session.

Shiatsu massage cushions are also a good idea to relax your back. In this case, you should place the massage cushion on the lumbar area and choose different knots to create a deep kneading effect. Adjust the direction of the massage. As with other massagers, it is advisable to start with a low speed and then increase the revolutions for 15 to 20 minutes. Be careful not to exceed this time, as it could harm your health.

Does an electric back massager replace the hands of a physiotherapist?

An electric back massager does not replace the hands of a physiotherapist, but it is a good addition, since you can use it as often as you want at home or in another place. Besides, you won't spend any money, since you'll just buy the product and start using it as often as you want. This way, you will not only relieve your back pain, but also prevent injuries.

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