Best Back Massagers of 2019: Complete Reviews with Comparisons
Back pain is one of the most uncomfortable sensations, and it can lead to the inability to complete everyday tasks.
Using the best back massager gives you the opportunity to revitalize your muscles.
You’ll no longer have to worry about random spurts of pain or chronic fatigue with the right massager.
Hence, below, you will find six different models that we have reviewed and compared to help you find the perfect one.
Comparison Chart
Best Back Massager Reviews
1. InvoSpa Shiatsu Massager
Designed for everyday use, the InvoSpa Shiatsu Massager helps to give you versatility with your massages. It is designed similarly to an elongated travel pillow.
With the InvoSpa Shiatsu Massager, you can focus on your back, neck, and shoulders at the same time. Also, you can use it on your legs, feet, arms, or anywhere else you desire.
Product Highlights
The main features of the InvoSpa Shiatsu Massager include:
- Eight massage balls: In the massager, there are eight separate massage balls. Four of them are large, and four of them are small. This helps to create a deep tissue massage for your entire body.
- Adjustable pressure: There are three different pressure and intensity levels you can choose from to meet your needs and preferences.
- Dual massaging motions: Designed to be a bi-directional massager, it auto-reverses every minute to target all areas of your back.
- Infrared heat function: For an even deeper healing sensation, the infrared heat function is useful. It penetrates your deepest tissues to promote healthy blood circulation. This also ensures the overall health of your muscles.
What's to like about the InvoSpa Shiatsu Massager
The main thing we liked about this massager is its usefulness. If you live alone and/or have limited mobility, it’s a handy tool to have.
It helps to alleviate acute and chronic pain from back injuries. We also appreciated how versatile it is for massaging your entire body.
What's not to like about the InvoSpa Shiatsu Massager
The main problem with the massager is that its fabric isn’t high quality. Over months of use, it will wear away which renders it useless.
We also found that it doesn’t operate silently, which can make it tough to use at work or in a quieter setting. Also, if you don’t like the smell of plastic, this isn’t the massager for you. The plastic used during manufacturing puts off a powerful odor.
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2. Zyllion Shiatsu Massager
This massager is designed for your back and neck than the full-body. It also offers one of the deepest massages we’ve experienced from these devices. With plenty of interesting features, it’s quite useful for everyday pain.
Product Highlights
The main highlights of the Zyllion Shiatsu Massager include:
- 3D massaging: The main technology in the Zyllion Shiatsu Massager is 3D massaging. It penetrates your tissues and helps to alleviate tightness. It also offers an advanced heating system for even deeper penetration.
- Ergonomic design: Designed to be a pillow massager, it is ergonomic. This means you can use it relatively anywhere and promote the healthy healing of your muscles.
- Advanced heating function: With the help of the heating, you can soothe any aches that you might be experiencing. You can also turn the heat on or off, based on your preferences.
- Adjustable straps: There are straps added to the Zyllion Shiatsu Massager, which allows you to adjust it correctly during your massage. You can also secure it to a chair.
- Auto-shutoff and overheating protection: Compared to other back massagers, the Zyllion Shiatsu Massager gets very warm. It comes with an auto-shutoff feature and overheating protection to keep you safe.
What's to like about the Zyllion Shiatsu Massager
We immediately noticed that this massager works better than regular heating pads. You can attach it to your office chair to alleviate tension throughout the day.
We also found that it offers a lot of versatility. You can attach it to pillows or chairs, and you can even sit on it to help relieve sciatic pain.
What's not to like about the Zyllion Shiatsu Massager
If you’ve always been sensitive to massages, this unit might be too much for you. The different pressure settings are relatively hard.
Although this helps the device to penetrate your deep tissues, it can be uncomfortable for some. The longevity of the Zyllion Shiatsu Massager is also in question. You may find that after a couple of months, the device may short out or stop working.
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3. Naipo Shiatsu Back Massager
As a flexible massager, you can use the Naipo Shiatsu Back Massager everywhere. Its deep kneading massage is most useful for your neck, back, and shoulders. However, it can also be used on your legs, calves, or even your glutes.
Product Highlights
The main features of the Naipo Shiatsu Back Massager include:
- Adjustable intensity: You can choose from three different intensity settings. You can opt for low, medium, or high.
- Eight massage nodes: With eight different nodes inside of the massager, you’ll be able to relieve tightness and chronic fatigue.
- Built-in heating: The heating function built into the Naipo Shiatsu Back Massager is impressive. It adds warmth to your massages to help improve your blood circulation. The heating will automatically shut off after 20 minutes.
- Ergonomic U-design: The eight nodes work in coordination with each other. This not only provides a 3D massage but also gives you a far deeper massage.
- Car adapter compatibility: If you’re looking for a device to use in your car, you’ll surely appreciate the included car adapter.
What's to like about the Naipo Shiatsu Back Massager
The combination of the soothing heat and massaging is what makes this device notable. We found that it helped alleviate everyday pain as well as pain from recent injuries. It’s also a multipurpose massager as it works effectively on the neck and the lower back.
Unlike other massagers, the different speed settings make a huge difference. If you choose low, it will create a truly less powerful massage.
What's not to like about the Naipo Shiatsu Back Massager
The main thing to consider with this device is that the high setting is intense. In fact, we found that nausea and discomfort were two issues that we dealt with while using it.
Another issue is that there isn’t an indicator to tell you when the heat is on. Lastly, the button placement on the device is hard to use once it’s on your neck.
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4. Nekteck Shiatsu Massage Pillow
If you’re searching for a device that offers the same effects as an in-person massage, this is for you. The Nekteck Shiatsu Massage Pillow has advanced massaging functions that mimic a real massage. This helps to not only alleviate pain but also relieve stress from different areas of your body.
Product Highlights
The main features of the Nekteck Shiatsu Massage Pillow include:
- Eight massaging nodes: Similar to most other massage pillows, this device has eight nodes. They help create a deeper tissue massage that everyone can enjoy. They also help make sure your body contours are thoroughly taken care of by the massager.
- Six-foot power cable: There’s no need to worry about not being able to move while using your massager. The Nekteck Shiatsu Massage Pillow features a six-foot power cable for easy mobility. You’ll also receive a car adapter with your order.
- Built-in heating: For an even more thorough experience, be sure to use the built-in heating function. You can turn it off manually if you simply want a regular massage.
What's to like about the Nekteck Shiatsu Massage Pillow
With our first use, we found how deep this massager was willing to go. It certainly penetrates your deep tissues more comfortably than with other units.
We also found that we didn’t have to lie on it in order to get the nodes to go deeper. The added straps were also convenient for strapping it to office chairs for massages during the day.
What's not to like about the Nekteck Shiatsu Massage Pillow
The main issue we had with the massager is the poorly placed controls. When it is on your neck, you can’t even reach them, let alone see them. Also, the built-in heating function performs poorly.
Having the ability to change the speed, direction, and heat settings are useful. However, you have to take the massager off to adjust the settings.
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5. Five S Deep Tissue Massager Pillow
This massaging pillow is ideal for someone who likes complete control over his or her massages. You can customize three settings to make sure you get the attention you need.
Product Highlights
The main features of the Five S Deep Tissue Massager Pillow include:
- Eight rollers: Inside of the casing, eight separate rollers work together. They help to work on immediate and deeper tissues all at the same time.
- Included heat setting: With the help of the soothing heat, you can alleviate any tension or stress with ease. If you prefer not to use heat, you can manually turn the function off.
- Adjustable settings: The largest selling point of the Five S Deep Tissue Massager Pillow is its settings. You can adjust the direction of the massage and the speed or intensity.
- Auto-shutoff: In 15 minutes, the device will automatically turn off or on. This helps to make sure you don’t overwork your muscles.
What's to like about the Five S Deep Tissue Massager Pillow
The simplicity of the Five S Deep Tissue Massager Pillow is what sets it apart from other massagers. It doesn’t have any exceptional features but does its job well. We appreciated its adjustable features, as most massaging pillows only allow you to adjust their intensity.
Surprisingly, we also liked the 10-foot cord that comes with it. This allowed us to move around without feeling restricted. This massager also helped with migraines, which is ideal for someone who regularly visits the chiropractor.
What's not to like about the Five S Deep Tissue Massager Pillow
As a common issue among most massager pillows, this unit’s heat is poor. If you’re looking for a warming massage, this isn’t the one for you. You’ll also find that the material doesn’t feel comfortable against bare skin, so you will want to wear a shirt.
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6. Etekcity Shiatsu Massager
The Etekcity Shiatsu Massager is a versatile device that works with your back, neck, and shoulders. It can also assist with discomfort in your legs, feet, and other areas of your body. Designed as a pillow massager, you can use this unit relatively anywhere.
Product Highlights
The main features of the Etekcity Shiatsu Massager include:
- Eight 3D massaging nodes: All of the massaging nodes work together to give you a deeper massage. It works on tightness in your muscles, overall fatigue, and extreme soreness.
- Adjustable intensity: You can choose from two different intensities. It’s not as customizable as other massagers but still allows you to choose between a hard and softer setting.
- Adjustable heat: There is heat built into the unit. You can opt to have the heat on or off depending on your preferences.
- Bi-directional massage: The eight nodes inside of the Etekcity Shiatsu Massager offer a bi-directional massage. This helps to mimic the feeling of an in-person massage. After each minute, the device will change its direction.
- Auto-shutoff: The auto-shutoff function gives you peace of mind. After 20 minutes of massaging, the unit will automatically power down.
What's to like about the Etekcity Shiatsu Massager
The first thing we noticed about the massager is how silent it is. When compared to other models, it’s very quiet while operating. We appreciated the car charger, as it allowed us to use the pillow for long road trips.
Another advantage is the nodes inside of the massager. Since they are more pointed rather than round, it provided a more focused massage to painful areas.
What's not to like about the Etekcity Shiatsu Massager
The main issue we had with the Etekcity Shiatsu Massager is that the nodes aren’t very comfortable. They provide a focused massage, but we wouldn’t recommend using the device for over 20 minutes.
We also found that if you apply too much pressure, you will wind up with bruising. In order to make the Etekcity Shiatsu Massager more comfortable, we placed a pillow between the device and our back.
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BUYER'S GUIDE
There are plenty of things to look for when you start searching for a back massager. Not only would you want a device that surely works out sore muscles. You’re also going to want to find one that is comfortable to use for up to 20 minutes.
Here are some other significant things to look out when shopping for a back massager!
Types of Back Massagers
Back massagers come in all different shapes and sizes. You can find models that wrap around your shoulders, some that you sit on, and others that gently rest on the affected area. Each serves a specific purpose, but some models are better for certain areas.
If you’re looking to focus on your neck and shoulders, an adjustable massaging pillow is best. If you simply need something for your lower back, a standard massaging base is recommended. There is also the ability to choose a handheld massager, which is best for targeting smaller areas that you can reach by hand.
Massage Speed
Massage speed is another important thing to look since it determines the intensity of the massage. You’re going to want to find a device that allows you to adjust the speed.
Some people may find that a deep tissue massage is too uncomfortable. This is when you’ll want to be able to set the massager to its lowest setting.
Shape and Size
The shape and size of your chosen back massager are dependent on the size of your body. If you’re someone who has a relatively thin back, you’ll need a smaller unit.
People with larger backs will need to find a wider massager or one that is fully adjustable. You should also think about where you’ll be using the massager.
If you need your muscles worked during the workday, a device that attaches to your office chair is best. On the other hand, if you want to use it at home, you’ll need one that fits comfortably on your couch or bed.
Auto Shutdown or Timer
The auto shutdown or timer function added to most massagers have two purposes. First, it gives you peace of mind since you won’t have to worry about the unit overheating or overworking. This is especially true if you forget to turn it off.
It also helps to make sure that you don’t injure yourself. Most of these devices offer a deeper massage, which can be painful for long periods.
Nodes
Finding the perfect number of nodes is mostly a trial-and-error task. You’ll want to make sure that there’s a good mixture of large, medium, and small nodes. This helps to focus on the largest problem areas as well as surrounding tissues.
Our preferred node combination is three large nodes, three medium nodes, and two small nodes. We found that eight was the perfect number for the most comfortable and effective massage.
F.A.Q.
What Massage Is Best for Back Pain?
When dealing with back pain, you’ll want a massage that focuses on deep tissues. Luckily, the majority of at-home massagers are designed to mimic deep tissue massages. Shiatsu massages are also fantastic for working on your back muscles.
How to Use a Back Massager?
Using a back massager is simple. All you just need to do is turn the unit on, adjust the heat settings, and place it on the affected area. If your unit comes with straps, you’ll want to make sure it’s strapped in a comfortable position.
To make your massager even easier to use, we recommend putting it in a specific place. For example, affixing it to your favorite chair. This way, all you have to do is sit down and turn it on when you need a massage.
What Is a Percussion Massager?
Percussion massagers are advanced technology. They are also seen to be far more comfortable than traditional massages. However, they are also more expensive.
Percussion massagers produce deep pulses that go into the soft tissues of your body. This helps to improve the health and responsiveness of your muscles.
Do Handheld Massagers Work?
Handheld massagers work very well, especially because they offer targeted care. With a smaller massaging head, they focus their efforts on specific areas. They might be a bit difficult to use than other models, but they are equally as effective.
Can I Use a Back Massager while Pregnant?
Every pregnancy is different. If you are interested in using a back massager while pregnant, you should first speak to your doctor. In most cases, doctors will advise against them. This is because the vibrations can cause your body to enter premature labor.
FINAL VERDICT
Regarding the number one back massager for versatility and comfort, we recommend the Naipo Shiatsu Back Massager. The main concerns we had with this massager are minute compared to most issues with other units. For example, the poorly placed controls can be easy to work with if you adjust the massager before putting it on.
We loved the quality of the massage that this unit provides. With the fully adjustable settings, you can truly see a difference between low, medium, and high.
We also found that the built-in heating was the most effective when compared to other units. For added comfort, the auto-shutoff gave us the peace of mind we needed. It made the device easier to use right before bed without worrying about manually turning it off.
For optimal longevity and the most impressive and customizable features, the Naipo Shiatsu Back Massager is surely your best option!