The good news is that (in most cases) back pain is temporary. Discomfort typically lasts a few days or weeks. But when you’re suffering, the days and hours seem long, especially when sitting, walking, working, and standing exacerbate your condition. That said, there’s a lot you can do. From stretching and heat therapy to cold compresses and medication (prescribed by your doctor, of course), there are ways to alleviate back pain, and for some, personal back massagers are the best method. In fact, a 2017 study found that massage and massaged-based devices can (and do) provide short- and long-term relief. Here are our favorite back massagers, from cushions and vests to handheld percussive devices. Here at Parade.com, we’re all about sharing products we love with our audience. When you make a purchase on an item seen on this page, we may earn a commission, however all picks are independently chosen unless otherwise mentioned.
Best back massagers
Nekteck Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager
There are thousands of back massagers on the market, so what makes the Nekteck shiatsu massager special? With eight deep-tissue massage nodes, three speeds, and an infrared heating function—which heats the device up to a warm and soothing 113 degrees—the Nekteck will knead away knots and relieve soreness. Plus, with thousands of five-star reviews from more than 23,000 ratings, some of which called it the “best deep kneading massager,” this device is well worth the investment. Buy the Nekteck Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager here.
Snailax Massage Heat Cushion
Are you looking for a massage cushion that uses vibration therapy to soothe soreness and alleviate muscle strain and pain? If so, the Snailax massager may be right for you. This massage cushion has six powerful vibrating massage motors, one for each different zone (upper back, mid-back, lower back, and thighs). It is programmable and customizable, so you can select all four zones at once or individually to your liking, and you can even select the intensity of the vibrations. This cushion also has a built-in seat warmer designed to relax the muscles. Buy the Snailax massage heat cushion here.
Accuwood Trigger Point Massager
If you’re looking for a handheld device, one which puts you in complete control, look no further than the Accuwood Trigger Point massager. This manual massager is lightweight. It weighs less than a pound. It has no wires, cords, batteries, or plugs. The power is in your hands. And with six different trigger points that can be used to target different body parts, including the lower back and shoulders, all you have to do is find the sore point and use targeted pressure to increase blood flow and alleviate tension. Buy the Accuwood Trigger Point Massager here.
Theragun Elite
Percussive massagers are beloved by many, and for good reason. These devices deliver powerfully, targeted pressure using a thumping motion and pulsating head. And one of the most well-known and beloved percussive massagers on the market is the Theragun Elite. With 120 minutes of battery life, 40 pounds of pressure and a whisper-quiet motor, this handled massager will melt away tension and reduce soreness. Buy the Theragun Elite here.
Zyllion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager
Compact, powerful, and portable, the Zyllion shiatsu back and neck massager differs from the other massagers on this list because it is a pillow. Yes, a pillow. Instead of holding it in your hands, around your shoulders, or placing it on a seat, you simply need to slide this device behind or underneath the affected area(s). Once there, the three-dimensional, deep kneading massage nodes and infrared heat will take hold, easing your back and body into a state of relief. This massager is great for low back pain and discomfort in your neck. Buy the Zyllion shiatsu back and neck massager here.
Wahl Deep Tissue Percussion Therapeutic Handheld Electric Massager
Looking for powerful and (very) affordable percussive therapy device? Look now further than Wahl. With four unique attachment heads, various speeds and modes, and nice long handle—to help reach even the hardest places—you can’t go wrong this one. Buy the Wahl deep tissue percussion therapeutic handheld electric massager here.
HoMedics Massage Comfort Cushion with Heat
We at Parade love a good chair massager. Like, love it. These devices are comfortable and easy to use. They offer quick relief, relaxing muscles and reducing soreness. And they are portable. I have a chair massager in my car. But what makes the HoMedics massage cushion so special? With five motors, a comfortable cushion, customized settings, and heat built right into the seat, the HoMedics massager will ease muscle pain quickly and gently. A great product for its price. Buy the HoMedics massage comfort cushion here.
MaxKare Back and Neck Massage Pillow
With four deep-kneading massage nodes and a heating function, the MaxKare back and neck pillow will help give tense muscles the relaxation they so desperately need. Plus, with a compact design, this massager easily fits behind your back and neck or underneath your legs. Ideal for travel and/or home and office use. Buy the MaxKare back and neck massage pillow here.
Renpho Handheld Percussion Massager
Unlike some of the other handheld massagers on this list, the Renpho percussion massager is rechargeable. This means there’s no need to mess with cords or stock up on batteries. Its charge also lasts a long time, 140 minutes to be exact. But the best part about this massager is hardly its battery life. With five interchangeable heads, a powerful motor—one which delivers up to 3600 PPMs, or pulses per minute—and a lightweight body, the Renpho can reduce soreness, increase flexibility, and help work out those troublesome kinks and knots. Buy the Renpho handheld percussion massager here. Next up, what is “nerd neck?” Here’s what to know about it.
