Shop top picks for massage guns and other at-home massagers

ABC News received guidance from the APTA on proper use of at-home massagers.

August 13, 2024, 3:55 AM

Shop the top picks for at-home massagers to relieve muscle pain.
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Whether it be a stiff neck, sore back, leg cramps or any other nagging pain, at-home massage tools have risen to the occasion as nifty items to help quell the aches that plague the millions of Americans suffering from daily muscle pain.

Innovations like hand-held massagers, foot massagers, and chair massagers provide a simple and convenient solution to grappling with daily pains.

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ABC News contacted Ben Fung, a physical therapist and spokesperson for the American Physical Therapy Association, to discuss the best practices when purchasing a new at-home massager.

"An at-home massager can be a great addition to an overall approach for best health. There are many different types of massagers including massage guns, other small handheld devices, scrapers, cups, or larger handhelds," wrote Fung in an email to ABC News.

Fung added that size and weight were key factors to consider when choosing your next massager, noting that the tool should be "easy to use." While everyone is different, Fung recommends using these tools every other day and for massages to last no longer than 10 to 15 minutes at a time. He also suggests hydrating frequently to maximize muscle health.

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Fung added that if an at-home massagers is not in the budget, tennis balls or foam rollers can work to roll out muscles at home.

Areas to avoid with the massager include bony areas, places where arteries or nerves may be exposed, and "superficial areas such as the armpit or the back of the knee."

Finally, Fung made clear these at-home massagers should not be used as the only pain management source.

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