Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Accessories: We love a carry case! Where possible we selected models that are easy to store in their own bag. While there are no formal guidelines for how long to use a massager, you shouldn’t use them too long, especially not in one place on your body. “There are reported cases of fascial damage from excessive massager use,” explains Dr. Lev Kalika, owner of New York Dynamic Neuromuscular Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy. “Patients should understand that massagers are not intended as self-treatment but rather as a supplemental tool. It is very easy to create fascial or cutaneous nerve damage if you use excessive pressure or excessive time under pressure.”

Although the product does have a heat feature, we found the heat wasn’t very strong and took a long time to warm up. Manual massagers: They may not be hands-free, but manual massagers allow you to apply as much pressure as you like. Sams L, et al. (2023). The effect of percussive therapy on musculoskeletal performance and experiences of pain: A systematic literature review.Massage and trigger point therapy can help through two mechanisms. First, it works through neurophysiological means, as the pressure from the massage signals the muscle to relax and decrease resting tone or guarding,” he says. “Secondly, this repeated on/off pressure from the massage or trigger point therapy helps pump more blood flow into the region, therefore delivering more oxygen and reversing many of the effects of the acidic environment.” Overall the HoMedics sling is easy to use—press the power button once for high intensity, twice for medium, and three times for low. The heated massage is a nice add-on; however, our tester noted that it took a few minutes to heat up. “Once it did,” she said, “that was a nice added feature.” Pregnancy massage, including vibrating massage from a device, is usually safe for most people after the first trimester. Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! The top piece is a bit bulky and might be difficult to position at first, but once you figure it out you’ll be amazed at the quality of massage this product provides.

Relaxing Massager.This massager comes with a convenient carrying case to seamlessly take on the plane or anywhere on the go. What We Liked Shiatsu massagers mimic the traditional Japanese massage therapy which delivers a deep, kneading massage with circular motions. These massagers contain ‘nodes’ that move around and apply pressure, like the fingers and palms of a massage therapist. Shiatsu is great for loosening painful knots, releasing chronic tension and improving circulation, and is a wonderful stress-reliever.

If your massager is not specifically meant for this purpose, don’t sleep with it on. You can over-ice or overheat the area.

Price: We took cost into consideration, being sure to include devices at various price points including less expensive models that we consider to be a great value for price. I think that massagers are not a bad idea as long as they are not pushed too strong and not overused,” says Dr. Kalika. Treat the area with heat and cold by alternating 15 minutes of ice with 15 minutes of moist or dry heat.

Research from 2017 indicates that massage, including self-massage, can provide short-term pain reduction and benefits such as stress relief. In addition, there’s evidence that the relaxation produced by massage therapy can help reduce pain. While we can’t always visit a masseuse to work on those knots, having the tools to give yourself a pamper, or expert treatment in the comfort of your own home - and without the hefty price tag - is a welcome solution. Crawford C, et al. (2016). The impact of massage therapy on function in pain populations — a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials: part 1, patients experiencing pain in the general population. Deep Tissue Massage for Less.This massager will relieve your muscle pains at a fraction of the cost. It stands as the most budget-friendly on our list here. What We Liked To adjust the strength of the massage, you have to adjust your level of pull on the handles,” explained one of our testers. “The massager is very light, so to get a strong massage, you have to pull the handles with a good amount of pressure, which makes it feel a bit like you have to do some of the work.”