Health & Fitness

Get Rid of Chronic Pain With the 10 Best Therapeutic Massagers

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Lea Kuscer Avatar
Lea Kuscer
28 February, 2024 • Updated 28 days ago
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If you live with chronic back pain, you know how much of a struggle it can be to cope with it.

But even if you don’t suffer from chronic pain, carrying a lot of stress in your back or shoulders can be just as bad. In fact, living with stress can actually contribute to chronic back pain. There is a solution to your discomfort, however.

Whether you’re an athlete, office worker, personal trainer or simply a retiree suffering from chronic pain, a massage is an excellent way to relieve tension in your muscles, softening knots caused by stress and reducing inflammation associated with chronic conditions.

However, massages can be expensive, and it’s hardly practical to get a professional massage every night. Also, many professionals have busy schedules that make it hard to find time for a massage parlor.

IN A HURRY? CHECK OUT OUR EDITOR’S CHOICE
Hypervolt by Hyperice

If you are desperate to relieve your aching muscles but lack time to seek professional help, you should look into getting a handheld massager. It just might change your life.

Things to Consider

Handheld electric therapeutic massage devices range in the features that they offer, and in their retail prices, but when you find a good one, it can provide you with the ultimate deep tissue penetrating massage that can boost blood circulation and help to alleviate pain, tightness and improve recovery time.

We have done some research for you because it can be tricky to know what a good massage device looks like, and where you can find one, so read on if you want to purchase one of the best handheld electric therapeutic massagers currently on the market. Here are 5 important things to consider before your next purchase:

1. Additional attachments

Additional attachments such as alternate headpieces can help to enable users to customise their massage, and thus can help to provide a more efficient and comfortable massage experience. Some devices may come with no attachments, while others may have more than 6.

Decide what you will need your massage device for and then check to see if the device you are considering has the attachments that you will need.

2. Power

The higher the power of the device the deeper it will be able to penetrate, and the larger the area of tissue it will be able to cover. If you only require your massager to provide a soft and soothing relaxation massage then consider saving some of your money and getting a device with less power.

However, if you want a deeper and more intense massage to alleviate pain and boost recovery, then make sure that the massage device you select is powerful.

3. Warranty

Finding a device with at least 1-year warranty not only helps put the user’s mind at ease with regards to damage and repair but also suggests that the manufacturers stand behind the quality of the product.

4. Ergonomic handle

Ergonomic handle designs can help to make massage devices easier to use, and can, therefore, help to ensure that no matter where the massage is being directed, that massage will be effective.

5. Price

The final consideration, but possibly one of the most important, is the price. There is a range of massage devices on the market, and each one varies in what it offers- this is reflected in the price. Often, the more attachments a massager has, as well as the additional features that it boasts such as heat can increase the price of the massager.

If you want a simple massage device, with no frills, then make sure to consider streamlining the device you look for when out shopping. If you do not want to shop around, but do want the best product available, then check out the Editors Pick based on features, quality, functionality, and value.

QUICK OVERVIEW

The Best Therapeutic Massagers


Products Features
EDITOR’S PICK
5
1+
1+
Hypervolt by Hyperice
Hypervolt by HypericeHypervolt by Hyperice
  • 3 speed controls
  • 5 massage heads
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $300
  • 3 speed controls
  • 5 massage heads
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $300
Check price
at Amazon
MOST REVIEWED
4.2
4,370+
4370+
HoMedics HHP-350
HoMedics HHP-350HoMedics HHP-350
  • 3 different attachment heads
  • Variable speed control for your comfort
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $40
  • 3 different attachment heads
  • Variable speed control for your comfort
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $40
Check price
at Amazon
TOP PICK
4.3
430+
430+
Theragun G3PRO
Theragun G3PROTheragun G3PRO
  • 2 speed controls
  • 6 massage heads
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $500
  • 2 speed controls
  • 6 massage heads
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $500
Check price
at Amazon
BUDGET PICK
3.4
1,225+
1225+
Wahl 4120-600
Wahl 4120-600Wahl 4120-600
  • Comes with four different attachment heads
  • Has a nine-foot cord
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $25
  • Comes with four different attachment heads
  • Has a nine-foot cord
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $25
Check price
at Amazon
BUDGET PICK
4.7
85+
85+
Amberfun Massager
Amberfun MassagerAmberfun Massager
  • Variable speed controls
  • 5 massage heads
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $100
  • Variable speed controls
  • 5 massage heads
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $100
Check price
at Amazon
EDITOR’S PICK
Hypervolt by Hyperice
Treat yourself with a deep percussion massage

After reviewing various therapeutic massagers, we found that the Hypervolt by Hyperice is the best therapeutic massager in the market right now.

5
1+
1+
  • 3 speed controls
  • 5 massage heads
  • PRICE RANGE: Under $300

Under $25

Wahl All Body Powerful Therapeutic Massager

Wahl All Body Powerful Therapeutic Massager

Features

  • 2 speed controls
  • 4 attachable heads
  • With cord

This massager from Wahl is suitable for total body deep kneading therapeutic massage and has rave reviews in terms of its effectiveness, despite its low price. The Wahl massage device has been designed to help relax tired muscles, as well as relieve soreness and tightness.

It does this by boosting blood circulation which can aid recovery, and repair. Its small size is a great benefit as it means that the device can be easily carried in a bag or on trips- ready for whenever pain, or tightness strikes.

This Wahl all body therapeutic massager offers a number of different intensity levels and a dual-speed function which can offer users with a customized massage experience that ranges from intense, to gentle and relaxing.

Therefore the device is ideal for pretty much anyone including those with chronic pain, those that are suffering from sports injuries, or those that just get a little achy after a day in the office.

A great feature of the device is that it is lightweight and has a sleek ergonomic design that makes holding it, and using it for massage both easy and convenient. This device is ideal if you want to take a massage device with you when out and about, or when going away on holiday.

Pros
  • Comes with 4 different attachment heads
  • 2 speed levels let you adjust to your comfort preferences
  • Has a nine-foot cord
Cons
  • Would be better with more speed settings

Under $40

HoMedics HHP-350 Percussion Action Massager

HoMedics HHP-350 Percussion Action Massager

Features

  • 4 speed controls
  • 2 sets of attachable heads
  • With cord

For a little less than $30, you could own this contemporary handheld massager, with its unique two ball point massage head. This device boasts a range of features despite its little retail price.

The HoMedics HHP-350 Percussion Action Massager is a great little device for massaging anywhere on the body. Great features of the massager are that it is super lightweight and seriously ergonomic so therefore massaging anywhere on the body is easy.

The device has a variable speed control so that massages can be custom set to ensure the best treatment possible is applied to the affected area.

What is more, thanks to the dual pivoting heads, the device can provide a unique massage experience that is sure to help alleviate pain, soreness, or stiffness in muscles by boosting circulation and thus stimulating repair.

The HoMedics HHP-350 also comes with 2 additional attachments that can enable the device to provide a firmer, gentler or heated massage- should the user so wish.

Pros
  • Comes with 3 different attachment heads
  • Variable speed control lets you adjust to your comfort level
  • Includes two pivoting heads for better coverage
Cons
  • It’s not very warm

Under $50

Wahl 4290-100 Deluxe Deep Tissue Percussion Therapeutic Massager

Wahl 4290-100 Deluxe Deep Tissue Percussion Therapeutic Massager

Features

  • Variable speed controls
  • 4 massage heads
  • With cord

The Wahl 4290-100 Deluxe Deep Tissue Percussion Therapeutic Massager is one of the newest models in the Wahl range and has been upgraded in order to provide a massage that is more efficient and has increased effectiveness.

The massager also boasts a super-ergonomic design with a long handle for easy reach and a comfortable non-slip handle that when combined, enables the user to massage almost any part of their body with ease.

The Wahl 4290-100 Deluxe Deep Tissue Percussion Therapeutic Massager comes with 4 attachments that enable the user to alter the feel of the massage. The device also has an easy to use variable speed dial, with a maximum speed of 3500 pulses per minute, so that the user can easily customize the intensity of their massage.

This massager has great ratings, and most agree that this device can help to quickly relieve pain, and reduce fatigue. Ideal for office workers, athletes and those that suffer from chronic pain.

Pros
  • Comes with 4 different attachment heads
  • Variable speed control lets you adjust to your comfort level
  • Motor pulses up to 3,350 times per minute
Cons
  • Some users find it too heavy to use

Under $100

Amberfun Deep Tissue Percussion Muscle Massager

Amberfun Deep Tissue Percussion Muscle Massager

Features

  • Variable speed controls
  • 5 massage heads
  • Cordless

The Deep Tissue Percussion Muscle Massager from Amberfun has a contemporary design that wouldn’t look out of place in an art gallery! However, the device is also really functional due to 5 massage heads, and the ability to penetrate deep into the tissues. 

The massager also boasts the additional feature of 30 different speed choices which can help to boost a massage, and alleviate pain and aches quicker by increasing blood circulation. This is great for those that have chronic pain and need to be able to control the level of penetration that a massage device delivers.

It is also ideal for those wanting a massage device that they can use on a range of muscles as different areas need different levels of pressure. The handheld massager has an ergonomic, non-slip design that makes massaging anywhere on the body easy and straightforward. 

The percussion head of this device is also ideal for those looking to get a deep massage as it can penetrate the muscle, and has been specially designed to soothe aching muscles- ideal for athletes, or those who have manual jobs.

It is cordless and rechargeable so you can soothe your pain anywhere you like.

Pros
  • Comes with 5 different attachment heads
  • Variable speed control lets you adjust to your comfort level
Cons
  • The movements might be too strong for some people

Under $150

Konjac Massage Gun

Konjac Massage Gun

Features

  • 20 speed controls
  • 6 massage heads
  • Cordless

The Konjac Massage Gun is an extremely powerful device designed in such a way that it resembles the touch and pressure of a real-life masseuse’s hand. Ideal for those that love real life massages but don’t have the time or money to go out and get one every day. 

The Konjac is great as it enables the user to get a quality massage, without the time or effort of seeing a therapist.

The massager has been designed with the user in mind and therefore it has a sleek ergonomic design that makes it easy to use, no matter where on the body the user wants to massage. Plus, it gives you around 7 to 8 hours of work on one charge.

The device also comes with 20 extra attachment heads that enable the user to customize their own massage. It is quiet when working and has an LCD display that shows you the gear, time, and switch.

Pros
  • Comes with 6 different attachment heads
  • 20 speed control lets you adjust to your comfort level
  • Motor pulses up to 3300 beats per minute
Cons
  • The movements on higher speeds might be too strong for some people

Wahl 4196-1001 Heat Therapy Therapeutic Massager

Wahl 4196-1001 Heat Therapy Heated Therapeutic Massager

Features

  • 2 speed controls
  • 7 massage heads
  • With cord

The Wahl 4196-1001 Heat Therapy Heated Therapeutic Massager is compact, efficient and comes with the added benefit of heat. The addition of heat when massaging a muscle helps increase blood flow and has been found to boost recovery, and reduce pain.

The device is ideal for athletes or those who suffer from chronic aches and pains. This is due to the massager’s efficiency at reducing pain that is in part thanks to the 8 additional attachments that the device comes.

The attachments not only provide the user with a completely customizable massage, but they have also been specifically designed to penetrate deep into the tissues, target pain, and provide relief.

The Wahl 4196-1001 Heat Therapy Heated Therapeutic Massager also has two-speed settings dependant on what kind of massage the user is after. The lower speed setting is ideal for those looking for a soothing massage, for example, to aid relaxation.

While the higher speed setting provides a more intense massage that can penetrate deep into the tissues and is great for those looking for a massage over a larger area.

Pros
  • Comes with 8 different attachment heads
  • 2 different heat settings to help relax muscles
  • 2 speed levels let you adjust to your comfort preferences
Cons
  • Standard attachments are not heated

Under $200

Maxi Rub Therapeutic Handheld Speed Massager

Maxi Rub Therapeutic Handheld Speed Massager

Features

  • Variable speed controls
  • 1 massage head
  • With cord

The Maxi Rub therapeutic handheld massager has a unique design that is very different from the other handheld devices shown previously. The device can be held by the user, or can be applied to an individual’s muscle by a family member or friend to ensure that all areas of the body can be covered.

Unlike other handheld devices that are easily portable, this model needs to be plugged into a power supply in order to function. Not ideal if transportability is a top priority, however, the 10ft cable that the Maxi Rub comes with does make using it extremely easy, as long as a power supply is within range.

The Maxi Rub massager provides total body massage, and can increase blood circulation to reduce aches and pains. The device may seem a little expensive, but for what it does it is priced competitively-especially when compared to other products that can provide a similar total body massage.

What is more, the device is reliable thanks to its strong design, and it has been built with sturdy plastic which makes it super durable. A great feature of this model is that it requires no maintenance so users can just keep massaging away for as long as they need to.

Pros
  • Massages a large area of your back at a time
  • 2 speed levels let you adjust to your comfort preferences
  • Has a 10-foot cord
Cons
  • Larger and heavier than most massagers

VYBE Percussion Massage Gun

VYBE Percussion Massage Gun

Features

  • 5 speed controls
  • 4 massage heads
  • Cordless

Percussion Massage Gun from Vybe has everything you need in a therapeutic or deep percussion massager. It has 5 speeds and gives you up to 3200 strokes per minute. It gives you 4 hours of work on a single charge and it comes with a bag so you can take it anywhere.

The device comes with 4 interchangeable heads that you can use according to your preferences. It is extremely quiet and can penetrate the aching muscle tissue easily.

It is a powerful recovery tool for people doing various sports and those suffering from muscle issues. Its unique design helps you to target the areas that are stiff or painful and slowly fasten the speeds to alleviate the pain. This one is on the higher price range, but it surely pays off.

Pros
  • Comes with 4 different attachment heads
  • 5 speed control lets you adjust to your comfort level
  • Motor produces up to 3200 beats per minute
Cons
  • Some attachment heats spontaneously eject during use

Under $300

Hypervolt by Hyperice

Hypervolt by Hyperice

Features

  • 3 speed controls
  • 5 massage heads
  • Cordless

Hyperice is one of the best-known names in the therapeutic massager industry. Their top-selling Hypervolt was built to give you the perfect massage experience.

This little powerful tool promotes circulation in the body and relieves muscle aches while improving recovery time from specific sports or age-related muscle injury.

It uses Quiet Glide technology, meaning it works in complete silence. If you want to use it by yourself, it is a powerful tool to penetrate the muscles both on your arms and legs. If you have sore muscles on your back, make sure that someone else is handling the device. 

Hypervolt features 3 speed settings and comes with 5 different head attachments that can target different areas on your body. Since it is cordless, you have to recharge its Lithium-Ion battery with an AC/DC wall charger that comes in the package.

Pros
  • Comes with 5 different attachment heads
  • 3 speed control lets you adjust to your comfort level
  • Effectively removes muscle knots
Cons
  • Issues with the vibration indicator lights

Under $500

Theragun G3PRO Percussive Therapy Device

Theragun G3PRO Percussive Therapy Device

Features

  • 2 speed controls
  • 6 massage heads
  • Cordless

Theragun G3PRO is pretty much holding the title of the best handheld massage devices along with the previous one. The G3PRO provides the user with the ultimate massage experience thanks to a long ergonomic handle for ease of use and complete freedom of movement. 

This device has been designed so that users can reach, and penetrate any of their muscles, no matter what angle the device is at.

The device is also lightweight and comes with an ergonomic adjustable arm and handle so that the user can decide where they massage, and how much pressure they apply. It has 2 speed settings and 6 different attachment heads.

A great feature of the G3PRO is that it is cordless and that it is powered by a rechargeable, super-powerful, Lithium-ion battery that gives you full 75 minutes of work without weakening. What’s even better, you’ll get 2 batteries with the product. 

This device is pretty large, but if that is not a problem, then the G3PRO could make the ideal traveling massage companion.

Pros
  • Comes with 6 different attachment heads
  • 2 speed control lets you adjust to your comfort level
  • Excellent build quality
Cons
  • Some of the devices stop working after a while

Conclusion

Handheld therapeutic massagers are ideal for those looking to alleviate sore, tight or painful muscles from sport, work or general life. Handheld massagers can deliver deep, penetrating massage, or soothing, and gentle pulses to either reduce pain or induce relaxation.

When looking for a massager, it is important to consider the design as some are ergonomic and battery powered, whereas others are built more for total body massage and thus have a less ergonomic design, but can provide a deeper penetrating massage. Above we’ve picked the best possible options that are available in the market for you to buy.

*All prices mentioned above are at the time of publishing.

Lea Kuscer Avatar
Written by
Lea Kuscer
Lea Kuscer is a nature admirer, ecological cosmetics and jewelry maker, avid traveler, language professor by trade, but above all, a marketing maniac who's enthusiastic about testing new products. Her mission is to share her passion with gadget lovers and those who would like to make their life more comfortable with the best products on the market. Let's get on an exploring adventure together!