Many of us lead very busy lives. Our hectic work schedules, commitments and family events can drain all our energy. What's worse is that not only are they stressful, but they can also cause random muscle pain. That's why massage is so therapeutic.
A massage helps relieve pain, reduce stress levels and even eliminate negative emotions that some people call “energies” that you may be carrying around.
Index
Massage, an ancient healing miracle
The massage is really great. Did you know this has been going on for a long time? It was part of several ancient medical traditions and is still practiced today in many different ways.
Massage is performed for physical therapy, relaxation and much more. It is so effective that it can even improve the quality of life. Just think about it. How many times did you go for a massage even though you weren't bedridden or sick? We and many others have done this many times. This is because massage is like an instant refresher.
However, have you ever wondered if you can do it yourself? If you have, you're not alone. You'll also be pleasantly surprised to learn what this guide is all about.
Here we will talk about the art of massage, what it is, its different forms, how you can do it yourself at home using an electric massager, and much more. So put on your favorite playlist, light a candle to set the mood, and let's get started!

In the introduction we mentioned that therapeutic massage is part of ancient healing practices. We also discussed how it can work wonders on someone. Again, we haven't explained what that is yet, have we? This is the subject of this chapter.
Below we talk about what massage is, the different types of massage and the different massage devices you can buy to give your own massage at home.
What is Massage?
So what is massage? Massage is the act of manipulating and applying controlled force to muscles throughout the body. A person trained to do this is called a massage therapist or massage therapist, which refers to male and female practitioners respectively. If they are certified to do so, they may be called a massage therapist.
Different types of massage
Different situations call for different types of massage therapy, so it's no surprise that there are different types of massage around the world. Here are the most popular types:
swedish massage
This is one of the gentlest types of massage, making it ideal for beginners, sensitive to touch, and those with low pain tolerance. As this is a full body massage, be prepared to disrobe if you plan on having a Swedish massage.
Hot stone massage
What if you don't feel comfortable with someone else's hands massaging your entire body? Would there still be some kind of massage for you? Yes. For these people, it is highly recommended to try hot stone massage.
A hot stone massage is just as gentle as a Swedish massage and no less effective. However, it is also a full-body massage, which means that you need to remove your clothes to fully enjoy the benefits. For those who are not so comfortable with the heat, you will be happy to know that cold stones can also be used.
aromatherapy massage
As mentioned above, massage is not just for those who need physical therapy. It can also help those in need of emotional healing. If you are tired or just emotionally drained, we recommend an aromatherapy massage.
Essentially, an aromatherapy massage is simply a Swedish massage, but with the addition of essential oils. Different types of oils can be used depending on your needs and preferences. We suggest that you first choose one that you already know.

deep tissue massage
Ready for the next level? Are your muscles so twisted and sore that only strong love can handle it? So you're ready for a deep tissue massage. However, be warned. This massage involves deep pressure that can be painful and unbearable for some.
sports massage
Finally, if you are looking after a specific injury, whether you suffered it during sports or not, or simply need a more concentrated massage, this is the place to look. We say “research” because not all spas and massage centers offer sports massages. We also recommend getting this type of massage from certified massage therapists to avoid further injury.
Here it is! But don't get us wrong. Surely there are other forms of massage out there too? we haven't shown half of them yet. However, due to limited space in this e-book, we will leave you to discover other massage options. After all, our main goal is to focus more on massagers, which we will talk about next time.
Different types of massagers
While we all know that nothing beats the real thing, it's also smart to invest in a massager to ensure you can get a quick massage and pain relief even when you're at home. In general, massagers can be divided into two categories: manual and electric.
manual massager
Hand massagers are hand tools usually made of wood or metal with moving or fixed parts designed to go over pressure points and provide pain relief. One of the most popular hand massagers is the wooden roller, which comes in a variety of sizes and can be used on different parts of the body. Small wooden rollers, for example, are designed to be used on the face to soothe and tone the facial muscles, giving you smoother, firmer skin.
electric massagers
Instead of manual operation, this type of massager uses electricity. They usually come with replaceable or rechargeable batteries. However, this category can be further divided by the massage mechanism or the target area of the body they are used on.
- Head and scalp massage
- Neck and shoulder massage
- Rigmassagem
- Foot and calves massage
- Feet massage
- hand massage
- percussion massage gun
Electric massagers also vary greatly in size, but regardless, one thing is certain: having a massager at home makes it easy to give yourself and your family a sense of relief when needed. Personally, we prefer electric massagers because you no longer have to use force, which can sometimes be extremely difficult if you're in pain.

Anyway, when we talk about electric massagers, that's what the next chapter is completely dedicated to. This is also where we want to share with you the subcategories of electronic massagers we talked about above, so let's go!
So are you ready to take home your very own electric massager? Now the question is, of all the different types out there, which one should you buy? Don't worry. as promised, we'll help you answer that question later by sharing with you the different types of electric massagers below.
Different types of electric massage machines
As with most devices, electric massagers also come in a variety of formats, each designed to deliver an appropriate massage for a specific situation. Here are some of the options you're likely to find online or at a local store:
heated electric massage
Heated electric massagers are devices that use heat to soothe tired muscles. They work like a common electric thermal bag, but a big difference is the fact that this type is still a massager and, therefore, has moving or vibrating parts.
vibrating electric massagers
Since we're talking about vibrations, some electric massagers don't use heat, they just vibrate. What we love about these electric massagers is that they offer different pulse or vibration options that alleviate different levels of pain and cater to different needs and preferences.
Infrared electric massagers
Infrared massagers are similar to heated electric massagers. However, instead of using the normal heat generated by electricity, the heat you will enjoy with this type of device comes from infrared technology.
If you really want to get specific, infrared light can generate heat, and due to its nature, it can penetrate target areas better than a typical electric massager. It can even promote better blood circulation and reduce cellulite.
In addition to the various options mentioned above, electric massagers can also be categorized according to how they are used, such as the following:

electric hand massagers
Portable electric massagers are devices that you can steer and control with your hands. Most of them come in stick form, with a variety of accessories that you can change according to your needs and mood. However, some portable massagers are designed to be held in the palm of your hand, which can also be classified as “portable” if you really think about it.
Portable
Portable are electric massagers that you can use. They come in many shapes, but the most popular is the massage belt. Just a word of caution. Never wear one with the intention of sleeping with it on. Do not sleep with any type of massage, especially those that generate heat. This is to avoid any unwanted damage.
cushions and furniture
Finally, there are electric massagers on which you can stand, lie and, of course, sit. The most popular is the electric massage chair where you can relax for several minutes or until the pain is relieved.
Wow, there really is a wide variety of electric massagers to choose from, don't you think? The challenge now is to choose the right one for you.
Which one should you buy?
There are several factors to consider when deciding what type of massager to buy. You should think about your target area, the time available for the massage and of course your budget.
Before you decide, ask yourself: will you be able to reach your lower back with this handheld vibrating massager? Or is it better to buy a vibrating massage pad for your office chair? Do you have time to sit down and enjoy a massage session on a regular basis? Or do you prefer something you can wear while working or running errands? Finally, can you really afford this reclining massage chair or is your budget limiting you to just one smaller unit right now?
Once you've found the answers to these questions, the next smart thing to do is check out online testimonials and reviews. Every massage works differently, and in some cases, some “miracle” or “innovative” massages don't even work. It's best to be on the safe side and do your research beforehand.
Below are our top picks for the best electric massagers in each category after hours of research:
- Best head and scalp massage
- Best neck and shoulder massage
- Best foot and calf massage
- The best Shiatsu foot massage
- best hand massage
- Best percussion massage gun
- The best foot massagers for neuropathy
- best massage chair
- best massage cushion
- best back massage
After finally choosing the electric massager for you, we can move on to the next chapter, where we will learn how to use and maintain it.
So what kind of electric massager did you buy? You have tried? It's okay with us if you haven't done this, as we didn't teach you how anyway.
In this chapter, we'll share a step-by-step guide to using an electric massager safely, the risks involved, and then how to care for your massager so you can use it for the long haul.

How to Use an Electric Massager Safely
Let's get started with your new massager. Remove it from the packaging and follow the steps below:
Step 1: Read the manual in advance.
The first thing you need to do is read the instruction manual that came with your device. This will give you the full list of massage settings and features that are important to know if you want to get the most out of your device. It will also contain precautions directly from the manufacturer.
As this e-book is aimed at a general audience, we won't be able to share your device details with you, especially since there are hundreds of different massagers out there. Again, this is why we strongly recommend reading the manual.
Step 2: Don't connect your device yet.
Before connecting or activating your device, you must first familiarize yourself with its features. Does your massager need to be recharged? Does he need to be logged in for the entire session? Still waiting for your device to warm up? Once you know the answers to these questions, you can move on to the next step.
Step 3: Identify the problem area.
Now that you know the device, it's time to get to know your body. Where do you plan to use your device and how long will you be able to use it there?
Step 4: Turn on your device and use the lowest setting.
We understand that you probably need a medium or higher setting based on the pain you are experiencing or the level of relief you desire. However, let your body gradually get used to the new sensation. Let your muscles warm up and later, before the end of the session, let them cool down.
Step 5: Continue with your session.
Increase your device settings according to your needs and preferences.
Step 6: Allow the unit to cool down before putting it away.
If you have an electric massager that heats up, wait for it to cool down. If not, you can restore it to save. Most electric massagers come with their own storage bags. If not, feel free to use a fabric bag or other alternatives. Just make sure it protects your massager from dust when not in use.
We'll talk more about massager maintenance later. For now, let's move on to the next topic where we'll discuss the various risks associated with using an electric massager.
The dangers of using electric massagers: what you need to know
Electric massagers are great, but like other medical gadgets and tools, improper use can definitely pose some health risks! Here are some of them:
It can damage your arteries
The skin around the neck is thin and delicate. Therefore, we do not recommend going through this part with your massager, however gentle it may be. The worst that can happen is even causing an ischemic stroke. Yes!
May cause electric shock
This is already taken for granted. As your massager uses electricity, always check the handles for small tears and exposed parts before and after use. Also, never use it with wet hands, on wet skin and especially when submerged in a bathtub or swimming pool.
It may not work for your problem.
After all, not all pain requires massage. A professional or certified therapist is needed to determine this. Some injuries require more attention, while others require a cold compress. Therefore, we recommend that you first consult your doctor or physiotherapist before using your electric massager on areas where you experience chronic or severe pain.

Tips on Maintaining Your Electric Massager
In the end, remember to use the electric massager responsibly and sparingly. Considering the tips we share with you, we are sure that you will enjoy the comfort and assistance that electric massage can provide.
When used judiciously, it can serve as a more affordable substitute for home massage. You can get even more out of it if you take care of your massager, as you will be able to use it more.
As promised, here are some helpful tips on caring for your massager:
Most electric massagers no longer need extra pressure. Just park it in the target area and let it do its thing without using any additional force.
Note how long each suggested session lasts. Most massage therapists recommend sessions lasting five to 10 minutes. Do not exceed the indicated duration. This is also why you should read the user manual beforehand.
Do not wrap the cable around your device. Wrap the wire and secure it with wire. This will prevent cable chafing, which often causes damaged cables and exposed wires.
Also, do not pull the wires and cables from the device. When disconnecting, grasp the plug by the head and pull it out.
When using it without a case, hold the device by the body, not the cable.
Always store the massager in a storage bag when not in use. We know we already mentioned this above, but we can't stress enough how important it is.
Finally, store your device in a safe, dry place. Keep away from children!
That's it! With these tips in mind, we're sure you and your electric massager will enjoy many rejuvenating home spa sessions together.
Wow, we finally made it to the end of the guide. We hope that you have learned a lot about the art of massage and electric massagers and that you have enjoyed reading it as we prepare it for you.
In addition, we would also like to invite you to view other content on our website. Like this guide, it is entirely dedicated to differentmassage devices, its use and much moretips and tricks! We are sure you will like our content there.
Improve your quality of life with an electric massager
For us, massagers aren't just fancy tools that you have to buy just because they're advertised on TV, nor are they products we advertise because we want to get paid for it. We support and promote the use of electric massagers because we believe they can significantly improve quality of life.
We already feel a lot of pain and stress in our daily lives. We just want to lighten your burdens and let you enjoy your self love sessions at home. After all, why put up with sore muscles and lack of energy when you can do something to alleviate them? Therefore, we sincerely hope that the electric massager you purchase will help you as much as it has helped us.
Get rid of tight muscles and stay healthy!
Bibliographic references:
https://www.healthline.com/health/types-of-massage#sport
https://www.hunker.com/12430510/electric-massagers-adverse-effects
Related posts:
- Can I take a massage on the plane?
- Disadvantages of a Massage Chair | Is there anyone?
- Can a massage chair induce labor? What are the risks?
- How do percussion massagers work? (An in-depth look)
FAQs
Do electric massagers really help? ›
They may, however, improve your range of motion (ROM) and perception of fatigue which may ultimately benefit you.” Limited research suggests one benefit that may be a positive for short-term performance: “Massagers could aid competitors who need to lift a weight or hit a goal just one time,” Dr. Calabrese clarifies.
How long should you use a vibrating massager? ›The recommended length on how long you should stay on a vibration machine is 15 to 30 minutes at a time on 3 to 4 occasions each week.
How long can you use an electric massager? ›Be sure to stop if you should ever feel any pain or discomfort. It's often recommended to use an electric foot massager for 15 to 20 minutes per session rather than for prolonged periods of time in a single sitting.
Which massager is best for body pain? ›- Lifelong LL27 Electric Handheld Full Body Massager.
- HealthSense Toner-Pro HM 210 Electric Handheld Full Body Massager.
- AGARO ATOM Electric Handheld Full Body Massager.
- Dr Physio (USA) Electric Hammer Pro Body Massager.
- Caresmith CHARGE Percussion Massage Gun.
If you are suffering from preeclampsia it is advisable to avoid using our massage chair and massage devices. If you are a high-risk pregnancy you should avoid using our shiatsu massage products. If you have severe headaches you should not use our shiatsu massage products.
What are the side effects of electric foot massager? ›Side effects associated with the use of an EMS device are minimal, considering that these machines use safe, low-level pulses of electricity to work. Some side effects can include: Potential skin irritation at the site of application. A worn-out feeling in atrophied muscles (muscles that are not regularly used)
What are the disadvantages of vibration massage machine? ›Anyone with balance problems should probably avoid using power plates. Vibration machines have grown in favour as a training tool recently, but they have a number of disadvantages that you should be aware of. They could cause muscle aches, nausea, dizziness, and joint pain.
Can you use a vibrating massager on your neck? ›Yes, they are, but the secret is knowing exactly where and how to use them. The first thing to make clear is that the neck area can be very sensitive, especially to the vibrations you get with the percussive massage of a massage gun. For this reason, ALWAYS avoid massaging the front of your neck.
How long does it take to see results from a vibration machine? ›Depending on your present health and fitness level, you should begin to see and feel results in about 2 to 6 weeks.
How do I choose a massager? ›Look and feel. Effective massagers usually feel solid and well built. If they don't feel solid, or come with cheap plastic heads and accessories they are likely ineffective consumer machines.
Can you use a massager every day? ›
So then, how often can you use a massage chair? We recommend you use it no more than 3 to 4 times a week for maximum massage benefits. An easy way to think of it is to set yourself on a schedule to use it every other day while at home.
Where not to use massager? ›Don't use directly over bony prominences, the front of the neck or abdomen, or acute injuries. Percussion guns work on soft, contractile tissue. Use over bones, sensitive areas, vital organs, or already inflamed areas won't just be ineffective, it will hurt.
What is the best anti inflammatory massage? ›Lymphatic massage and petrissage are two massage techniques that support chronic inflammatory conditions because they promotes improved drainage of fluids from the tissues.
Does a massager help with inflammation? ›The results confirm that massage therapy can reduce inflammation, if administered correctly through professional massage therapists, however, you may find that simply performing light exercise will reduce inflammation more effectively.
How effective are vibrating massagers? ›Advocates say that as little as 15 minutes a day of whole-body vibration three times a week may aid weight loss, burn fat, improve flexibility, enhance blood flow, reduce muscle soreness after exercise, build strength and decrease the stress hormone cortisol.
Are vibrating massagers any good? ›And the answer is obviously yes. As long as you use the massagers correctly and not use it if you have serious injuries, vibrating massagers are the best thing for improving muscle strength and making out muscles healthy and fit.
Is using a vibrating massager good? ›Boosts Muscle Health
Amazingly, they found that vibration could boost muscle strength in healthy adults. On top of that, other research has noted that vibration may help with muscle soreness after exercise.
When Should I Use a Massage Gun and For How Long? Percussion massage can be used several times throughout the day. Whatever reason you're using your massage gun, it should only be used in short sessions, for no more than a couple of minutes. It's recommended to use a massage gun 2 or 3 times a day at most.