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. If your bedding sags, consider swapping your pillow or mattress for supportive types, like a cervical support pillow and medium-firm mattress. Beyond being an effective massager, it was easy to use: "You just set it down, hit the power button, and lie down on it," our tester said, noting that its small shape made it easy to adjust and position to target specific areas. Although it’s on the pricier side, the chair comes with a 30-day return option if you’re not fully satisfied. Accessories: We love a carry case! Where possible we selected models that are easy to store in their own bag.

While it’s very basic in design, we found it to be incredibly durable. According to the manufacturer, it’s because of the device’s fiber-infused material and single-piece construction. While it’s somewhat oddly shaped for placing it on a shelf or taking it to go, it could slide under a bed or stand upright in the closet. 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.”

Soothe your aching back and invigorate your muscles, with our pick of the the best back massagers you can buy

Although the product does have a heat feature, we found the heat wasn’t very strong and took a long time to warm up. Throughout the test, we evaluated each massager for how effectively it relieved muscle tension and provided muscle relief, how comfortable it was to use, how intuitive and easy it was to operate, the different features and how functional they were, and the massager's value. In attention to ergonomics, we noted any devices—and particular settings—that caused pain or discomfort.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members!Pregnancy massage, including vibrating massage from a device, is usually safe for most people after the first trimester. Of course, you won’t get any heat or vibration with this massager, but if you’re looking for a simple way to target some of your sore trigger points, the LiBa could be a perfect fit. Several users also noted its effectiveness for migraine headaches and fibromyalgia. 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.

If your massager is not specifically meant for this purpose, don’t sleep with it on. You can over-ice or overheat the area. Manual massagers: They may not be hands-free, but manual massagers allow you to apply as much pressure as you like. 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.”Unfortunately, this item does not have an auto shut-off option, so make sure you stay awake during use. Heated massagers: Heated massagers apply warmth to the target areas, which helps relax your muscles. Deep-Kneading Massager.This massager has an auto-shutoff feature after 20 minutes of use, making it great to enjoy as you’re falling asleep. What We Liked You can then choose between multiple settings to get just the right intensity of massage for that area. You can set its eight Shiatsu massage nodes to massage at three different speeds, with optional vibration and heat for additional pain relief. If you have trouble dropping off to sleep, use this massager to massage your legs while applying gentle heat, then let it automatically switch off after 15 minutes. Zachary Woolever, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS, a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedics and clinic director of Pivot Physical Therapy in College Park, Maryland