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Best electric back massagers for pain relief (UK) - 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?

Thumper - Handheld Percussive Massager for back, shoulders, legs and arms with 3 speeds
  • Measurements: Not specified
  • Beats per Minute: 2400
  • Cordless: No
  • Massage Type: Percussion
  • Heat Effect: No
  • Different vibration modes
  • Provides an optimal massage
  • Automatic shut-off function
  • Easy and simple to use
  • No size specification
  • Complicated cleaning
If you want to reach the deep tissues by means of percussion therapy, choose the Thumper hand-held electric massager. Thanks to the safety offered by this product, you will improve the blood circulation of the back, neck and shoulder, thanks to the dilation of the venules and arterioles produced by each gentle stroke of its heads. Its resistant plastic structure provides the ideal size to control the massages with precision

You can combine any of the three speed settings for best results, you just have to be near an electrical outlet to get the full power of its motor. Its versatility is due to its heat sink that will prevent overheating and its ergonomic heads, which can be cleaned with a damp cloth. You can use it at home or anywhere, but be aware that some people may find massaging the lower back uncomfortable.

Hangsun - Electric Handheld Massager for Neck and Back relief with Tissue Percussion Massage
  • Measurements: 43 x 16,5 x 13,4 cm
  • Beats per Minute: 3500
  • Cordless: No
  • 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 work the Hangsun electric hand massager does is similar to the physiotherapy sessions you can get from a professional. This is due to the 3500 RPM speed offered by its motor, which combines with the travel distance of the head to achieve a professional style percussive range. The ergonomic handle offers a comfortable grip to prevent slipping during massage strokes.

It is designed with dual interchangeable heads to reach different muscle groups for faster myofascial release from percussion therapy. Simply plug in the massage gun and choose the area to which you wish to stimulate blood circulation, apply for a few minutes and then you will begin to feel a general sense of wellbeing. In some cases, the weight of the product was exaggerated.

RENPHO - Electric Percussion Handheld massager for deep tissue muscle massage
  • Measurements: Not specified
  • Beats per Minute: 3600
  • Cordless: Yes
  • Type of massage: Percussion
  • Heat Effect: No
  • Including charging base
  • Different heads
  • Easy to clean device
  • Ergonomic design
  • No measurements specified
  • May be painful on sensitive skin
Don't miss the opportunity to have your own masseur at home any longer, we recommend you to use the RENPHO battery massage gun on a daily basis. Thanks to its anatomical handle with non-slip grip, you will stimulate the blood circulation of the deep tissues by means of percussion therapy. Its head has a stroke that can be combined with the different speeds of the motor.

The weight and size combine with the wireless technology to allow you to take the massager anywhere and use it at your leisure. The battery life will allow you to receive up to 3600 vibrations per minute for more than 2 hours. If you wish, you can change its silicone head in different ways to eliminate toxins lodged in the body's tissues. Don't miss this opportunity, although you should bear in mind that it is not a very quiet product.

SNAILAX - Vibrating Car Seat massage with 6 Vibrating Massage Motors and 3 Heat Levels
  • Size: Not specified
  • Material: Polyester
  • Power source: Wired
  • Massage type: Vibration
  • Heat effect: Yes
  • 6 vibrating massage motors
  • 5 massage modes with 4 intensity levels
  • Adjustable velcro strap
  • Car adapter included
  • Not portable
  • No dimensions specified
Enjoy a restorative journey with a SNAILAX car massage seat , but you can also take it with you and enjoy its kneading tools on your sofa at home or in your office chair. It is designed with highly durable materials and covered in soft plush to create a cosy feeling of comfort. Just place it on the seat and its non-slip material will prevent sliding during use.

It has a heating pad to deliver warmth and blend the benefits of thermotherapy during the massage session. From its remote control you can choose the massage regions individually or in groups, the intensity level and the type of massage. Vibration massages will work effectively on the back to relax all the muscles, although you should bear in mind that its size may be insufficient for people of average height.

COMFIER - Car Seat massager with 10 vibration motors and Massage Chair Pad
  • Size: 69,8 x 47,7 x 44,9 cm
  • Material: Polyester
  • Power source: Corded
  • Massage Type: Vibration
  • Heating effect: Yes
  • 5 massage modes with 3 intensity levels
  • 2 heat levels
  • Massage too gentle for some people
Don't think twice and relax your back and legs when you go to the office or to the gym in your car. Choose a safe product that improves blood circulation, relieves contracture symptoms and reduces muscle stiffness. You can't pass up the opportunity to choose a COMFIER massage chair. Its ergonomic design made of non-slip material offers vibration massages with 10 strategically distributed motors.

Choose the quick heating function to improve the kneading at the contact points. Its backrest and inclination angle adapts to any type of seat, so you can use it not only in your car seat, but also as a lumbar support for your office chair. Its charger must be plugged into the mains, but it is important to consider that the level of heat may be insufficient for some users.

ROTAI - Shiatsu massage chair with heat therapy and back pillow
  • Size: 80 cm
  • Material: Synthetic leather and mesh fabric
  • Power source: Corded
  • Massage type: Shiatsu and Vibration
  • Heat effect: Yes
  • 3 vibration levels on the lower seat
  • Provides optimal massage
  • Heat therapy
  • Overheating protection
  • Not all sizes specified
  • Complicated cleaning
The design and the quality of the materials of the ROTAI car massage seat make this portable massager a practical health supplement. It is designed with four massage nodes to stimulate the blood circulation of the back through Shiatsu massages. In addition, its motors located on the buttocks will generate the necessary vibration to relieve hamstring and thigh stiffness.

Don't miss this opportunity to get a soft and comfortable electric massage chair. Not only does it have vibrating pads, but it also includes components for targeted heating of the sensitive areas of the back. You can choose different functions via a built-in control, which features a 25-minute automatic shut-off. Although its heat is pleasant, it does not offer the possibility to choose different temperature settings.

RENPHO - Shiatsu pillow massage for back, Lower Back and Neck with Net Cover and 3 Speed
  • Dimensions: Not specified
  • Weight: Not specified
  • Material: Not specified
  • Power source: Corded
  • Heat effect: Yes
  • Different vibration modes
  • Provides an optimal massage
  • Includes cover
  • Automatic shut-off function
  • Too soft for some people
  • Does not specify dimensions, weight and material
Improve your quality of life and maintain the rhythm of all your activities through Shiatsu massage therapy. To do this, you will need to use the RENPHO relaxation cushion, made from the highest quality materials . It is divided into different nodes to produce a deep kneading in a straight line and in a circular shape. It has an elastic band with velcro fastening to easily adapt the cushion's support.

In addition, the mesh fabric is ideal for efficiently transmitting 3D massages at any of its three speed levels. It has an automatic 15-minute shut-off function to protect your health and, if you wish, you can activate the heat function to further enhance the therapeutic results. The stitching of the cover and massager can, in some cases, be cut.

Comfort Supplies - Shiatsu Massager Pillow for Back and Neck pain relief with Heat
  • Dimensions: Not specified
  • Weight: Not specified
  • Material: Synthetic leather
  • Power source: Corded Electric and car adapter
  • Heat effect: Yes
  • Includes car adapter
  • With heat therapy
  • 15 minute timer
  • Portable and safe
  • Massage too intense for some people
  • Does not specify size and weight
By simply adjusting the massage direction of the Comfort Supplies vibrating cushion, you will keep your muscles in good health. The Shiatsu massage is ideal for neck, back and legs, as it stimulates blood circulation and improves the exchange of nutrients with tense fibres. Its ergonomic design adapts easily to the user's anatomy and does not slip, thanks to its velcro straps.

The work performed by this vibrating massage pillow is similar to the pressure of a physiotherapist's fingers, so don't miss this unique opportunity to combine Shiatsu with heat therapy. You can use it at home or while driving in your car, as it comes with a charging adapter to keep you relaxed when travelling. Please note that in some cases the battery life is insufficient.

Aront - Neck and Shoulder Shiatsu Massage Pillow with Deep Tissue Kneading Massager
  • Dimensions: 35 x 24,9 x 13,4 cm
  • Weight: 1,35Kg
  • Material: Lycra
  • Power source: Battery (2000 mAh)
  • Heat effect: Yes
  • Features 8 massage balls
  • 2000mAh rechargeable battery
  • Massage too intense for beginners
If you want to rest your legs and relax your back muscles, use the Aront Shiatsu pressure massager. Its design allows you to stimulate the trigger points of the muscles to achieve myofascial release with ease. Don't miss this opportunity because you can have your own masseur wherever you go, this is due to its practical design and the quality of the materials the cushion is made of.

You can use it anywhere because its eight 3D heads work silently in a circular motion. In addition, you can activate the heat function for faster relaxation results, but please note that the battery life is 2 hours. It is covered in breathable fabric and has a washable cover over the nodes. It includes a pocket on the back, which may limit the support for some places.

GLOBAL RELAX - Professional massage chair with 3 massage modes and surround sound
  • Dimensions: 90 x 60 x 100 cm
  • Colours: Red, Brown
  • Type of massage: Shiatsu
  • Type of chair: Portable
  • Pack: 2 Speakers, Bluetooth, USB Charging
  • 2 loudspeakers with Bluetooth connection
  • Different vibration modes
  • Overheating protection
  • Quality materials
  • Massage too intense for some people
  • Complicated cleaning
If you spend a lot of time sitting or need to relax your back, we recommend the GURU massage chair. Its professional design features 3 massage modes and integrated speakers to generate surround sound to maximise relaxation. Its curved design is designed to stimulate blood circulation and reduce deep tissue trigger point tension.

Its high quality eco-leather upholstery encases a technologically advanced structure with which you can choose to massage the whole body or the back or legs independently. By simply sitting down and selecting Shiatsu massages on the integrated control knob, the curved design adapts to the ergonomics of your body, creating a unique feeling of well-being. A point to take into account is that it does not have a heating function or wheels to move it.

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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