According to the American Psychological Association, more than 20% of the population will be dealing with high levels of stress at any given time. Increasing the risk of unhealthy living, anxiety, and depression, stress can go a long way to making your life less enjoyable and fulfilling. In addition, chronic pain, soreness, and back pain can add a lot of annoyance and frustration to our daily routine. Juggling workloads, people, personal lives, and even things like a lack of job security, it is easy to become overworked and exhausted. Thankfully there are solutions to this.
For the longest time, massages have been known to improve overall health and wellbeing. Along with aiding sports injuries, massages can help people deal with anxiety, digestive disorders, fibromyalgia, headaches, insomnia, soft tissue strains, injuries, recuperation from surgery, chronic and acute pain, and of course, stress. However, many people cannot afford the time or the money to go out of their way and get the help they need.
There is a better way. The home massage industry has exploded in the past few decades. With hundreds of products on the market ranging from simple hand massagers to massage chairs costing tens of thousands of dollars, you have a lot of products to choose from. So, which products are worth you getting and which are worth you steering clear from?
Below we attempt to answer that question for you by looking at 5 of the top back massagers that you should consider getting. In particular, we are interested in handheld and smaller massage units that unlike massage expensive chairs won’t drain your bank account. What kind of services do these devices provide and how do they go about making your life better?
Let’s take a moment to find out.
5 Back Massagers You Should Consider Getting
The Shiatsu Back Massager – Shiatsu Neck Massager – Foot Massager – Kneading Massage Pillow w/Heat
Cost: $XX
Rating: 4.3 out of 5 Stars
With a unique design, the Shiatsu Massager definitely manages to stand out. Arm holds on either end allow you to hold this massager on pretty much any part of the body, including the feet, neck, back sides, and more. It comes with 4 different massage nodes that provide a superior and deep massage for those who want a massage experience that is a bit deeper. The bi-directional movement of the device helps to mimic the motions of a real person as they provide a massage.
The Shiatsu Massager must be plugged in to work. At a price range of about $39.99, it is relatively affordable and priced below a lot of competition that provides a similar experience. A 15 auto shut off and selectable heat allows you to set massage periods that target specific parts of your body. Its small and portable size makes it easy to carry around. With a black exterior and grey interior, it manages to remain unassuming, even when being used.
Pros of the Shiatsu Massager 
- Low cost massager
- Soft mesh material that feels more comfortable against your skin
- You have full control over the pressure
- No batteries to worry about
- The neck rub option is a popular favorite that you no doubt will enjoy
- A fantastic present
- Easy to move around
- Makes targeting specific parts of your body easier
Cons of the Shiatsu Massager
- A little shorter in arm span making it perfect for smaller people
- Plug can sometimes have problems
- Not enough strength for some people. If you want something that will beat up your back, then go with a more powerful model
- A couple people do not enjoy using this product and do not see the massage function as working as advertised
Wrap Up
Inexpensive, the Shiatsu Massager is not without its problems. However, if you can see past that you are in for a treat. With the majority of people really enjoying this product, it is worth checking out if you want a portable massage unit.
Thera Cane Massager
Cost: $XX
Rating: 4.3 out of 5 Stars
When you first look at the Thera Cane Massager, you may think medieval torture device. However, the Thera Cane Massager is specifically designed to target pressure points and places in the body that constantly ache. The cane shape makes it easier to get to parts of your back and the 6 treatment balls are great for various aches you may be experiencing. Two strategically places projections provide even more versatility. Perfect after a long day of exercise and stretching, the Thera Cane Massager is bound to provide even greater relief.
The Thera Cane Massager measures in at 24 inches by 15 inches by 1 inch. This makes storage very easy. Be aware that the Thera Cane Massager comes with a lifetime guarantee. Lightweight and inexpensive (only about $30!), the Thera Cane Massager is easy to hold. The deep green color looks great and wares well. The total weight of the Thera Cane Massager is 1.2 pounds.
Pros of the Thera Cane Massager
- Lightweight, inexpensive, and practical
- Found to work on a number of different aches and pains quite effectively
- Easy to store
- A much better alternative than things like massage balls
- DVD instructions helpful
Cons of the Thera Cane Massager
- Requires some understanding of your body to properly approach and treat the pains you are experiencing
- Some people complain that the newer models are of poorer quality
Wrap Up
One of two non-mechanical message devises we reviewed, the Thera Cane Massager is the best rated. Providing a range of relief and informing you on how to address the pains in your back, the Thera Cane Massager should be your top choice for non-mechanical do-it-yourself massagers.
The Five Star S Massage Seat Cushion with Heat – Neck – Shoulder – Back – Thigh Massager
Cost: $XX
Rating: 3.9 out of 5 Stars
The Five Star S Massage Seat is a seat cushion specifically designed to go over an existing seat. While not a shiatsu massager, it still manages to provide a range of massage functionality that people enjoy. This includes a number of different massage options that come from vibrating alone. With 10 vibration motors, the chair can provide a great deal of invigoration around the neck, back, and thighs. Soothing heat makes the experience even better.
The Five Star S Massage Seat comes with a portable remote and can be plugged into your car through a car adaptor. Easily portable, one of the greatest benefits of the Five Star S Massage Seat is how easy it is to move around. Weighing in at 4.2 pounds, the seat measures in at 17.7 inches by 14 inches by 5.5 inches when fully in position. It is large enough to work well for larger framed people.
Pros of the Five Star S Massage Seat
- Great for a wide range of sizes
- Great when you work from home and want a massage experience
- Makes a fantastic present
- At only $54.99, one of the least expensive massagers that can be placed in a chair
- Good choice for people with mobility issues
- Great if you don’t like rolling balls
Cons of the Five Star S Massage Seat
- No rolling balls or shiatsu functionality
- Does not provide the amount of force that some are looking for
- Will not last as long as more expensive models
Wrap Up
Inexpensive and capable of providing a fun and relaxing experience, the Five Star S Massage Seat makes a great impulse buy. If you are looking for something more serious, then consider one of the other products listed here. However, if you want to make the sitting experience far more enjoyable no matter where you are, the Five Star S Massage Seat is definitely worth considering.
The Nayoya Back and Neck Pain Relief – Acuepressure Mat and Pillow Set
Cost: $XX
Rating: 4.3 out of 5 Stars
Providing immediate back and neck pain relief, the Nayoya Acupressure Mat will offer a range of comfort to your body in as little as 20 minutes of use a day. Utilizing acupuncture to relax sore muscles and aching joints, the Nayoya Acupressure Mat eliminates the need for expensive treatments and is a great alternative to going to therapist. Effective at inducing a state or relaxation, the Nayoya Acupressure Mat has a range of benefits including improved sleep, circulation, and reduced anxiety.
With more than 6,210 acupuncture points, the Nayoya Acupressure Mat has settings for beginner, intermediate, and advanced use depending on your level of comfort. It folds up easily and weighs only 2 pounds shipped. Its small size makes it easy to transport and place wherever and whenever you need a surface to relax on. Green and white, the Nayoya Acupressure Mat looks and feels relaxing.
Pros of the Nayoya Acupressure Mat
- Non mechanical components make it last longer while still being effective
- Easy to transport, inexpensive, and lightweight
- A fantastic gift
Cons of the Nayoya Acupressure Mat
- Can be hard to get used to. Consider slipping over a satin pillow case until you get used to it
- Some may find it too painful to use
Wrap Up
A great non-mechanical option, the Nayoya Acupressure Mat is a product that will provide relief. If you can get over the slight discomfort experienced at the beginning, you will have a mat that provides relief again and again.
The HoMedics HHP-350 Percussion Action Massager
Cost: $XX
Rating: 3.9 out of 5 Stars
The HoMedics HHP-350 Massager is unique on our list as a handheld massager that works through percussion. The dual pivot head makes it easy to put into position as you deliver relief to targeted parts of your body. Variable speed control helps you to craft the experience to your liking. Three custom massage attachments extend the experience even further.
Dar grey with light grey highlights, the ergonomic design of the HoMedics HHP-350 Massager makes it great to hold and use. At 17.1 by 5.9 by 5.1 inches and 1.5 pounds shipped, the massager is far less weighty than similar products on the market.
Pros of the HoMedics HHP-350 Massager
- Provides a targeted ‘hammer’ like action that gets in deep to the root of the problem
- Creates a relaxing massage affect that many swear by
Cons of the HoMedics HHP-350 Massager
- Does not rotate or vibrate
- Heads may be too hard for some
Wrap Up
An interesting design, the HoMedics HHP-350 Massager is a neat massager worth your consideration. Priced at under $30, it is nearly worth getting it just to try it out. You may be surprised by how much you like it.
Types of Back Massagers
As mentioned before, one of the most common types of massagers is for you to lay on your back and allow the massager to provide you with a kneading kind of motion to work out those aches and pains. While these machines can be highly effective, they do come with two detractors. First of all, they can be a bit loud. Because of the sound of the rotor grinding, they can be rather noisy making the treatment environment a little less comfortable. The pressure can also be a little too intense for some, reducing the effectiveness of the massage.
The Back Massage Cushion is becoming a very popular choice. This is a simple cushion that you lay on, which applies heat and vibration to reduce suffering and improve blood flow in the back. The vibration intensity can be set by you, allowing you to make it brisker or light depending on your needs.
The Shiatsu massagers are also very common. These provide a very deep penetrating kind of massage, which is ideal for those who are suffering some rather intense aches and pains or have severe knots.
Features to Look for in the Back Massager
No matter which kind of back massager you are interested in, there are a few features to consider. The first is what kind of pressure will be applied to aid in the massage therapy. Some provide a kneading kind of motion, others use rollers, some use vibration, and others even use small electrical impulses. You will also find some massagers that provide a combination of these. It is hard to say which one of these kinds of massages is the best, because one person’s preference or injury that they are suffering from is different from another, and this can play a significant role in your choice.
Heat therapy can be a big bonus with a back injury, and some massagers come with heat built-in to assist. This is one feature that is highly recommended because adding heat to the treatment can improve blood flow which can improve healing.
Convenience is a factor that is not commonly considered when making a choice about anything it seems, but this should be one of the most important aspects for you in relation to making your decision. If it is hard for you to use the massager, inconvenient, or challenging to be able to figure out, you are simply not can use it, and your therapy will be hindered. Look for something you know you will be able to use regularly.
Why You Should Get a Back Massager
Even if you are a person who is in good health, the truth is that you are more likely to injure your feet and your back than any other part of your body. They sustain the most amount of pressure and force in your daily living, and this will lead to aches and pains. The more active you are, the more likely you are to injure these areas.
It makes sense to ensure that you have a back massager available to you for those times that you may have overdone it a little bit. Once again, this can play a significant role in improving and increasing the healing process, making it a very wise investment.
Even if you are not suffering any kind of injury, you will find that the back massager provides you with a great many benefits. It can help to keep blood flowing properly and reduce the risk of injury in the future.
How do Back Massagers Work
For those who are unfamiliar with these devices, this device can work in a few different ways. The most commonly found these days is for you to lie down with the massager underneath you, which applies pressure using a kneading kind of motion. What this does is push in on specific areas, creating a kind of grinding motion using pressure that helps to loosen muscles and improve circulation.
Regardless of which kind of back massager you are using, there are really two purposes to the massager itself. First, is trying to loosen up muscles and improve blood flow. The reason behind this is that your body provides many of the chemicals and compounds that you need for healing to occur. The problem is that when muscles are tight, they can restrict blood flow which reduces the healing process. Improving that using a massager can aid in healing, making it more efficient and quicker.
Secondly, using a massager can help to relax a person so that healing can also be more effective. A lot of times, pain and suffering can become so extreme that it actually causes you to tense up your muscles psychologically because of the suffering you are enduring. By using a massager, you can reduce this greatly aiding in the healing process.
Can Back Massagers Lead to Injury
The truth of the matter is that anything you use can have the risk of causing injury. This is true of the back massager as well.
There are three common injuries that come as a result of using a back massager. The most obvious of these is overuse. Any constant rubbing or pressure against an area of your body can eventually lead to such things as calluses, skin sores, or even bruising. This is why it is important that you limit the amount of time that you use the massager to no more than 20 or 30 minutes a day.
There is also the concern about not knowing how to use the massager properly. Most will simply open the box, set it on the floor and lay on top of it, without reading through the manual to find how to properly use the massager. This will inevitably lead to injury if you haven’t taken the proper time to understand how to use it.
Improper use is another example of an area where injuries can occur. Many will think that because it works perfectly well on their back, that it could do just as good on their abdominal muscles, calf muscles, and even their head (yes some have tried it that way). Make sure you are using the massager in the proper way to avoid injuries in the future.
Where Does This Leave Us?
As you can tell by the above list, massagers can vary dramatically depending on their design and purpose. While some are designed for you to remain motionless, others require you take control of your massage and target specific parts of your body for relief. Some utilize vibration or percussive force while others are non-mechanical and require some understanding of your body for maximum effectiveness.
Regardless, our list of the 5 best spine massagers will help start you in the right direction when finding the perfect massager for you. Know that massagers are personal and what works for one person may not work for another. It may take some trial and error before you arrive at a make and model that eases your pain and provides the relief you are looking for. But oh how it is worth it.
While finding the right massager can be time intensive, the pay off can be incredible. Anxiety relief, pain relief, and overall improvements in life satisfaction all come when you find the right massager for your needs. Every moment you spend expanding your search means moving one step closer towards a massager that will leave you satisfied time and time again. Until then, good luck with your search!