A massage pad promises quick help with stress and tension. You can find out which models are recommended and what you should pay attention to when using them in our massage pad test.
Unfortunately, tension in the shoulder and back area is widespread and you have probably already been one of the sufferers. A massage can help and has a beneficial effect on body and mind. However, professional massages are often expensive and unfortunately health insurance does not always pay. A massage pad offers a cheap and effective alternative. We’ll tell you which models we recommend and how to use them correctly in our massage pad comparison.
What is a massage pad?
A massage pad is a mat shaped like a seat that is equipped with rotating massage heads. She should Massage your back, loosen your muscles and relieve tension. The massage seat cover is placed on a chair, armchair or sofa, connected to a socket and switched on via remote control. There are various editions that differ primarily in terms of massage types and intensity. In contrast to a massage chair, massage cushions are much more space-saving and cheaper.
Massage pad comparison: Which massage pad is the best?
Which massage pad is best for you depends entirely on your needs individual needs away. Do you want a gentle or an intensive massage? Should the device also massage the neck and thighs? And what do you think of a relaxing heat function? You should think about the following points before choosing a model:
- Massage techniques: The massage mats simulate different massage techniques. Most of them have the classic Shiatsu massage in their program, in which the massage heads move up and down the back in rotating movements. Some conditions also include a spot massage that focuses on individual tension points. An acupressure massage is done using air cushions that inflate. A vibration massage relieves tension through gentle shaking.
- Massage intensity: The cushions have a different number of rotating massage heads, usually two to four. Additionally, some mats offer up to three different intensity levels.
- Massage area: All devices are suitable for a back massage. Some massage pads can also massage the neck, shoulders, hips, buttocks or thighs. With some devices you can choose between a massage of the entire, upper or lower back.
- Additional functions: Almost all massage mats have a remote control. A mat with a heat function makes the massage particularly pleasant. The massage time can be set using a timer and an automatic switch-off prevents the device from overheating.
Massage pad test: These are our favorites
In our massage cushion test, we took a closer look at popular massage seat cushions and with regard to them Massage techniques, massage intensity, massage area and additional functions compared with each other. We also included customer reviews in our comparison. Below you will find our five favorites.
1. Medisana MC 825 Shiatsu massage pad
The MC 825 massage seat cover from Medisana Provides a relaxing Shiatsu massage with two massage heads in the shoulder area and two massage heads in the back area. You can either have the entire back massaged or just the upper or lower area. If you like, you can also knead other areas such as the neck, hips or thighs. The height of the neck massage can be adjusted individually. Air cushions in the waist and thigh area provide a gentle acupressure massage. The massage mat switches off automatically after 15 minutes, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy.
Massage techniques: Shiatsu, acupressure massage
intensity: 4 massage heads, 3 intensity levels
Massage areas: Back, shoulders, neck, waist, hips, thighs
Additional functions: Remote control, heat function, automatic switch-off
Amazon reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars
2. Renpho Shiatsu massage pad
The Renpho massage mat is ergonomically shaped and hugs your spine. You can have the entire back or just the upper or lower area massaged. You also have the option of using spot massage to target tension in individual areas. Depending on your preference, you can also adjust the heat and vibration. The breathable back massage cushion ensures soothing massage breaks even in summer – without sweating or sticking.
Massage techniques: Shiatsu, spot, vibration massage
intensity: 4 massage heads, 3 intensity levels
Massage areas: Back, shoulders, neck, waist, hips, thighs
Additional functions: Remote control, heat function, timer, automatic switch-off
Amazon reviews: 4 out of 5 stars
3. Snailax SL233DE massage pad
Whether it’s tension in the upper or lower back area or at a certain point – the Massage pad SL233DE from Snailax addresses the desired areas and relieves muscle pain. You can adjust the width between the massage heads individually to suit your body. You can control the intensity of the massage by taking off or putting on the cover. Hips and thighs can be loosened with the vibration massage integrated into the seat cushion.
Massage techniques: Shiatsu, spot, vibration massage
intensity: 8 massage heads, 2 intensity levels
Massage areas: Back, shoulders, neck, waist, hips, thighs
Additional functions: Remote control, heat function, timer, automatic switch-off
Amazon reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars
4. Comfier Shiatsu massage pad
The two double massage heads in the neck area combat tension in the neck area, while the two massage heads on the back work on the areas on the right and left of the spine. The Comfier massage pad also has four acupressure air cushions in the thigh and waist area that promote blood circulation. The heat function further enhances the relaxation effect.
Massage techniques: Shiatsu, spot, vibration, acupressure massage
intensity: 6 massage heads, 3 intensity levels
Massage areas: Back, shoulders, neck, waist, hips, thighs
Additional functions: Remote control, heat function, automatic switch-off
Amazon reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars
5. Beurer MG 205 massage pad
Simple and effective: The Beurer MG 205 Shiatsu massage pad Made of breathable mesh and neoprene has four rotating massage heads for a pleasant classic Shiatsu massage along the spine with optional heat function. The automatic switch-off ensures that the device switches off after 15 minutes. The massage seat cover is available in black and gray and is in the affordable price segment compared to other models.
Massage techniques: Shiatsu massage
intensity: 4 massage heads
Massage areas: Back
Additional functions: Remote control, heat function, automatic switch-off
Amazon reviews: 4 out of 5 stars
What should you pay attention to when using it?
The manufacturers recommend one to start with Application time of 15 minutesto avoid excessive strain on the muscles and to protect the device from overheating. The integrated automatic switch-off usually takes effect after 15 minutes.
How often you want to enjoy a massage is entirely up to you and depends on how your body reacts to the massage. In principle, there is nothing wrong with a daily massage session. However, it is recommended that you slowly approach the new device and to treat yourself to a break. If you experience pain during or after the massage, you should consult a doctor.
Does a massage pad make sense?
A massage can relieve blockages and tension in the muscles and prevent pain. In addition, a massage contributes significantly to relaxation, reduces stress hormones in the blood and strengthens the immune system American study found out. Massages can also stimulate blood circulation and metabolism. Since there is often not enough time or money for a professional massage, a high-quality massage pad is one definitely a sensible alternative. However, if you have severe or chronic back problems, you should definitely consult a doctor who can give you an individual diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.