The Best Back Massagers To Unwind And Relax Your Muscles – Forbes

If you’re one of the millions suffering from a tight, achy back, there’s solace in knowing you’re are not alone. As of 2017, an estimated 577 million adults experienced lower back pain, which might explain, in part, the growing popularity of massage guns. In particular, investing in one of the best back massagers may be the answer to many of your back pain woes.

“Back massagers target muscles to loosen up your joints, promote a wider range of motion in everyday activities and alleviate pain,” says Heather Jeffcoat, DPT, owner of Fusion Wellness & Physical Therapy. “The massage helps to stimulate circulation and decrease muscle tension, to help you move with greater ease.” Whether it’s a massage pillow, wearable massager, chair cover or a traditional massage gun, the market is brimming with products to suit a spectrum of needs and budgets. They work by using high-frequency vibrations to deliver a deep massage that pinpoints areas of tension and stiffness, leveling up the traditional foam roller. Plus, you can curtail those pricey trips to the masseuse to cut down on costs.

A percussive massager can remedy a sore, achy back.

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We’ve searched through dozens of device specs and reviews to highlight the best back massagers that tackle everything from an occasional muscle flare up to post workout soreness—our top pick being the Theragun Prime. Whether it’s your desk job to blame for a stiff back (in which case, a quality office chair is a must) or your body is simply holding tension post-strength training, find your match from our picks of the best back massagers.

Best Back Massager Overall

A Percussion Massager That Delivers In Power, Speed and Precision

MOST POPULAR

Weight: 2.2 pounds | Battery Life: 2 hours | Heat: No

Based on price point and functionality, the Theragun Prime provides the best bang for your buck from the Theragun brand. Its smart percussive therapy delivers a powerful performance in the form of a deep tissue massage, despite being the lightest model in this range—its QX65 brushless motor uses QuietForce Technology to limit the noise level to 65 decibels. Keep in mind, some reviewers have noted it’s louder than expected.

Just like the Theragun PRO, the Prime model has five built-in speeds ranging from 1,750 to 2,400 percussions per minute (PPM), wireless charging and smart app integration via Bluetooth—although it comes with two less interchangeable attachments.

A sleek ergonomic handle for those hard-to-reach spots on your back is designed to reduce any strain on your hands and wrists. It also has an amplitude (stroke length) of 16mm, faring on the higher end of most electronic massage tools on the market.

Incorporating the brand’s key features in a polished design, thousands of 5-star reviews concur the Theragun Prime showcases sleek technology and high-level performance.

What the reviews says: It does what it’s design to do. It both relaxes my muscles and breaks up knots. Clearly high quality, I know I’ll be using this for a long time and saving money from massages.

Pros:

• High amplitude
• Ergonomic design
• App integration

Cons:

• Relatively high price tag
• Noisy

Best Back Massager On A Budget

A Portable Massager That Performs At A Fraction Of The Cost

 Weight: 3.23 pounds |Battery Life: 5 hours |Heat: No

The Mecoc deep tissue massage gun is an inexpensive solution for a back massage on a budget. Ten interchangeable attachments—including a ball head for the back—deliver a deep tissue massage that targets tight knots. You can also adjust the percussion massager’s intensity across a 30-gear speed via an LCD touchscreen, depending on if you want to activate your muscles, relax tissue or opt for a deeper intensity massage.

Despite its modest price tag, the massager delivers up to 3,600 taps per minute at a noise level of 40 decibels (that’s low on the decibel scale). It comes with a battery that, in theory, remains charged for 14 days straight when used daily for 20-minute sessions. And, for safety’s sake, the device times out after 20 minutes anyway.

What the reviews say: I don’t know why I waited so long to get one of these. Cheaper than a massage and a lot more convenient, and this isn’t some cheap gadget that sits in a drawer after a week. The power is excellent, and the display of the battery level is very nice.

Pros:

• Cheaper than most other massage devices
• 30 speed levels and 10 massage heads
• 20-minute timer

Cons:

• Some users commented the product malfunctioned over time
• Short warranty period

Best Pillow Back Massager

Versatile And Compact For A Seated Back Massage

Weight: 4 pounds | Battery Life: Wired connection | Heat: Yes

The Zillion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager (ZMA-13) is a handy cushion to relieve tension as a result of fatigue, working out and receptive strain. Its 3D massage nodes change direction on a one-minute cycle and glide across muscles in a motion that mimics the natural touch of a manual Shiatsu massage.

The cushion flaunts a vegan leather design that contours snuggly to your upper and lower back, and is versatile whether for the office, car or living room. It also features a soothing heat function that claims to promote blood flow and circulation throughout your body.

One of the drawbacks is its one-speed setting which may deter those with a preference for switching up the intensity.

What the reviews say: It is easy to use, provides a strong but not overwhelming amount of pressure, has a perfect amount of heat, and helps ease away aches and pains, especially along the back and neck. I was skeptical about the 20 minute run timer but I found it makes sense.

Pros:

• Entry-level price
• Heated massages
• Overheating protection

Cons:

• Must be plugged in
• One speed setting

Best Massage Chair Pad

Unwind The Knots At Work And At Home

Weight: 15.5 pounds | Battery Life: Wired connection | Heat: Yes

The Snailax Shiatsu Neck & Back Massager can help relieve tension if you’re sitting for long periods of the day. Its design, which fits against virtually any chair, allows for a massage on the sly at work, or at home when you’re in need of immediate relaxation.

Controlled by the press of a button via remote control, the multi-functional features deliver on various fronts. Whilst the four-node Shiatsu back massager features adjustable rolling massage nodes that rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise to work the length of your back, the spot massage pinpoints tougher knots across three zones—the lower, upper and entire back—with a built-in heating pad to enhance the experience. You can also enjoy a rolling back massage with nodes traveling straight up and down your back, and its adjustable massager can tackle neck cranks to alleviate the pain that strikes from a bad night’s sleep.

In case you need it, there’s also a two-level vibration seat massager that works your hips and thighs.

What the reviews say: I’ve owned a few massage chair pads in the past, which have ranged from $40 to $100. This massager is WAY better than any I’ve tried before. It’s a true 3 dimensional shiatsu rather than the 2 dimensional massage which you get with cheaper units.

Pros:

• Heated design
• Three massage zones
• Versatile

Cons:

• Heavier than a massage cushion
• Wired connection required

Best Back Massager For Hardcore Athletes

The Ultimate Percussion Device To Loosen Muscles Post-Workout

Weight: 2.9 pounds | Battery Life: 5 hours | Heat: No

The 5th and latest generation of Theragun, an industry leader in massage guns and arguably the sleekest design on the market, the Theragun Pro is an app-enabled device that delivers in function and design. Its QX150 professional-grade motor packs a powerful punch, with six attachments targeting the hardest-to-reach spots. And, its 60-pound no-stall force (how much pressure it can withstand) is higher than most on the market for a penetrating massage that can target the most wrung-out muscles.

Five built-in speeds ranging from 1,750 to 2,400 PPM work in tandem with four arm positions that change at the push of a button, reducing strain on the hands and wrists. It also boasts 300 minutes of total battery life (with wireless charging), superlative to similar devices on the market.

What the reviews say: I am impressed by the Theragun Pro! I used it on my shoulders and my muscle pain melted away! I have more mobility than I have had in a long time after using my Theragun. I’m thrilled!

Pros:

• Rotating arm for improved comfort
• Powerful motor delivers up to 2,400 RPM
• Long battery life
• App integration

Cons:

• Expensive relative to other massage devices
• Noisier than most other electric massages

Best Back Massager For Gym-Goers

Relieve Post-Workout Aches In No Time

Weight: 2.66 pounds | Battery Life: Up to 6 hours | Heat: No

The ReAthlete Deep 4s has similarities in style and function to the Theragun range at a cheaper price point. It operates across four speeds, ranging from 1200-3200 RPM, to adjust the intensity, and features a sleek dual grip to alternative your holding position.

There’s also a small touchscreen interface to customize your usage and keep on top of battery life. On full speed, the device can run up to three hours (or six hours on a lower intensity), meaning you won’t have to charge it after each use.

One of its more unique features is a three-position adjustable arm to chop and change angles for massaging harder-to-reach muscles.

It sits at the 35-50 decibel range on noise level—reaching about as loud as a quiet refrigerator. And it has five interchangeable heads for working on specific muscles.

What the reviews say: I suffer from chronic pain and this product is fantastic with so many different options between speeds, intensity and interchangeable tips. I am so incredibly pleased with the battery life, I’ve only charged it twice in 2 months and I use it pretty much every day.

Pros:

• Dual grip handle
• Three-position adjustable arm
• Up to 6 hours on a single charge

Cons:

• Relatively high price tag
• No heat

Best Battery Life Back Massager

Provides Up To Fifteen Hours Of Battery Life On A Single Charge

Weight: 2.2 pounds | Battery Life: Up to 15 hours | Heat: No

The Dacorm Y8 Pro Max delivers unparalleled battery life among massage devices of up to 15 hours (rechargeable via a USB cable) to keep up with the most avid of gym-goers. With seven speeds reaching up to 3,200 rotations per minute (RPM) to knuckle-down on lactic acid build-up, it doesn’t skimp on power either. Track your speed, start time, battery charge and pressure (it has an amplitude of 14mm) via an LCD display, and alternate between 12 attachments—two of which are specifically for the back, alongside others for muscles, bones and soft tissue—which tuck neatly into a carrying case.

At 40 decibels, it emits little racket and is quieter relative to most others on the market. When used in unison with other muscle groups, the device claims to enhance both blood flow and range of motion. And, it has a 10-minute auto turn-off feature for safety and battery life preservation.

What the reviews say: This massage gun is one of the best guns I’ve purchased. I even bought a second one for my mom. My favorite attachment is the one for soft tissue. I have an injury that I’m able to use this head on.

Pros:

• Exceptional battery life
• Portable design
• Seven adjustable speeds

Cons:

• No heating element
• Charging plug not included

Best Wearable Back Massager

A Handsfree Back And Neck Massage

Weight: 4.6 pounds | Battery Life: Wired Connection | Heat: Yes

The multi-purpose Nektech Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager conveniently drapes over your shoulders to hone in on areas of tension in the upper back and lower neck. With built-in hand grips to hold it in place, its eight kneading massage nodes work in tandem with its infrared heat system to restore tight muscles and inject soothing warmth, changing directions automatically at one-minute intervals. Or, loop it around your lumbar region (lower back) to loosen rigid muscles.

Its three-speed setting allows you to alter the intensity, whilst multiple users have commented that you can increase the pressure by pulling down on the hand grips. An automatic 15-minute shut-off prevents it from overheating.

What the reviews say: On day four of a stiff neck with a migraine, nothing I usually do was working. I ordered this on a whim for same-day delivery, and the second I put it on, whatever skepticism I had died. I overindulged a bit and my neck and shoulders were a little sore the next day, but it was worth it!

Pros:

• Safety auto shutoff
• Three speed strength levels
• Deep tissue massage

Cons:

• Wired connection
• Not handsfree

Best Budget Double Head Back Massager

Delivers A Dual Massage To Your Muscles

Weight: 4.56 pounds | Battery Life: 6 hours | Heat: No

The Darkiron Double-Head Massage Gun delivers twice the impact in half the time, with six dual-interchangeable heads for kneading various muscles. Installed with a 24V high-torque brushless motor, it doesn’t emit as much noise as you might expect from a dual-head device, ranging from 35-50 decibels—about average compared to other massage guns.

An LCD screen keeps track of elapsed time and gives you control over speed, of which there are four levels starting at a gentle muscle-awakening massage to a powerful professional mode.

While it boasts 3200 RPM, it sits mid-level with an amplitude of 12mm. For safety, it switches off automatically following 10 minutes of continued use.

What the reviews say: I absolutely love this massager. The dual heads are awesome and the fact it comes with so many pairs of heads is another plus! Tried it right out of the box(it’s fully charged) and wow! I feel great!

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Dual head massager
• Automatic shut-down

Cons:

How We Chose The Best Back Massagers

We’ve undertaken widespread research to find the best back massagers, including filtering through firsthand reviews from both professional testers and independent consumers. We’ve also enlisted the expertise of a licensed physical therapist, taking into account their feature recommendations that make one back massager stand out from the rest.

This article is updated regularly so that availability, prices and ratings remain up to date. We also re-evaluate our back massagers during each update to ensure that they (in our opinion) represent a selection of the best choices in their respective categories. This story was last updated December 2022.

What To Consider When Investing In A Back Massager

There are hundreds of back massagers on the market to meet your every need, and they differ in terms of functions, safety, portability and weight, which begs the question: Which back massager is right for you? Here are some features to consider before investing a back massager.

Budget

Whether you’re on a budget or want to invest in a top-notch back massager, there are plenty of options. On the cheaper end you can find a plethora of models in the $30-$100 price range, which boast a variety of functions to help massage away the kinks. For serious gym-goers who want to up the ante with a powerful, sturdy machine, the sky is the limit—you can spend hundreds of dollars on a massager. These tend to have special functions such as noise reduction technology, premium materials and a wider speed setting range.

Features

Generally speaking, the more expensive a back massager, the more features it will offer. For example, budget massagers will be constructed from less durable materials than their more expensive counterparts, and likely offer less customizable modes. Having said that, you can also find budget products that compete with big brand names. For example, the Mecoc deep tissue percussion massage gun retails for under $40, but it gives the likes of the Theragun Prime a run for its money in terms of speed settings and available attachments. Although, Theragun’s quiet force technology, ergonomic handle and longer warranty are additional selling points that may justify the big-ticket price tag.

Heat

The application of heat not only encourages muscles to relax, but has been deemed a successful treatment (alongside massage) for delayed-onset muscle soreness following exercise. Many back massages have a heat option, most with an automatic switch-off for safety. Look out for this function for an added layer of soothing for your muscles.

Warranty

On the subject of warranty, always scour the small print prior to buying for warranty details. This can range from 90-120 days, to a 1-year limited or 2-year extended warranty (some manufacturers offer even broader warranties). This can certainly make or break your decision when purchasing a specific massager over another, as peace of mind goes a long way if the massager malfunctions.

Safety Mechanisms

Many back massagers have an auto-shut off feature to prevent overheating that can lead to fires—this is true whether the product contains a built-in heat function or not.

Which Is Better, Shiatsu Or Vibration?

Whilst both Shiatsu and vibration massages help relieve tension and stress in the body, they differ in application. Shiatsu is a type of Japanese bodywork that adopts the root principles of Chinese acupuncture by pinpointing specific areas of the body with a hands-on, manual massage. Translated to “finger pressure,” Shiatsu adopts a variety of techniques, including kneading, pressing and stretching to ease areas of muscle tension and promote blood flow.

Vibration, on the other hand, is a shaking motion that stimulates muscles in the body to improve blood circulation and reduce post-workout soreness. Research has found a scope of massage techniques, including kneading and vibration, to be beneficial for muscle tension, so you can’t go wrong with either.

Do Back Massagers Actually Work?

Yes, back massagers work! In fact, massage guns in general are an effective therapy for the treatment of muscle stiffness as both a warm-up and rehabilitative device. Studies in a literature review found they can also benefit your range of motion, more so than foam rolling and other forms of self-myosacial relief. The same review also found them to improve perceived muscle soreness. For the best results, Dr. Jeffcoat suggests spending between one to two minutes on each muscle, whereas for cushions or chair covers, 10-15 minute increments up to three times a day is recommended. “Be mindful that there is a risk of injury if back massagers are used inappropriately or with too much force,” With any massage tool, you should feel better after and never worse.

Is A Back Massager Worth Buying?

A back massager can do wonders to prevent delayed onset muscle soreness following a grueling workout, says Dr. Jeffcoat. “Make sure to use the massager in the areas involved during exercise for the best results.”

Keep in mind, back massagers do not prevent all injuries, and although they are great for treating chronic pain, they only provide temporary relief, adds Dr. Jeffcoat. She explains: “People with chronic pain will typically exhibit abnormal movement patterns that cause the pain, in which case a physical therapy program may be the best option for long lasting relief.”

In short, back massagers are worth buying to iron out the kinks and knots that flair up from time to time, but are not a replacement for medical intervention if you suffer from chronic pain or an injury.

What Back Massager Is The Best On The Market?

The answer depends on which muscles need attention, whilst budget and lifestyle are other considerations. A back massage cushion can help relax your muscles when seated for long spells, whereas a massage gun will target individual tight muscles on the go. Keep in mind, each massager has its own specs across speed, power, heat and adjustability. Whilst premium brands such as Theragun have positioned themselves as the holy grail of massage tools, there are cheaper alternatives on the market that work just as well for a fraction of the cost.

Dr. Jeffcoat adds to look for a device that kneads, rotates and is adjustable in speed to suit your comfort level. “One that contains heat is a bonus as this contributes to muscle relaxation.”