Best Back Massagers

Back Massagers: Fighting Desk Worker Disease

After a decade of desk work, my upper back became one giant knot. Here's what I learned trying everything to fix it.

Percussion vs. Shiatsu vs. Rolling
Percussion (massage guns):

Rapid tapping motion
- Deep muscle penetration
- Targets specific spots
- Requires you to hold and move it
- Best for: trigger points, recovery

Shiatsu (kneading):
- Rotating nodes mimic thumb pressure
- Broader coverage
- Often includes heat
- Hands-free options
- Best for: general tension, relaxation

Rolling:
- Rolling balls move up/down spine
- More gentle pressure
- Good for whole-back coverage
- Best for: gentle relief, tight muscles

### Heat: Yes or No?
Benefits of heat:
- Increases blood flow
- Relaxes muscles before massage
- Feels soothing
- Enhances relief

When to skip heat:
- Fresh injuries (use cold instead)
- Inflammation
- Skin conditions
- Very hot environments

### Chair Massagers vs. Handheld
Chair pads/cushions:
- Hands-free operation
- Work while getting massage
- Cover larger areas
- Need chair to use

Handheld/portable:
- Target specific spots
- Use anywhere
- More control
- Requires hand operation

### Getting Real Results
- Don't start intense: Work up to stronger settings
- Hydrate: Massage releases toxins
- Stretch after: Combine with mobility work
- Consistency: Regular short sessions > occasional long ones