A massage pad promises quick relief from stress and tension. You can find out which models are recommended and what you should consider when using them in our massage pad test.
Tension in the shoulder and back area is unfortunately widespread and you have certainly been among those plagued. A massage can help and has a beneficial effect on body and mind. However, professional massages are often expensive and unfortunately health insurance companies do not always pay. A massage pad offers a cheap and effective alternative. In our massage pad comparison, we tell you which models we recommend and how to use them correctly.
What is a massage pad?
A massage pad is a seat-shaped mat equipped with rotating massage heads. She should Massage your back, loosen muscles and relieve tension. The massage seat pad is placed on a chair, armchair or sofa, plugged into an outlet and switched on with the remote control. There are different conditions, which differ mainly in terms of massage types and intensity. In contrast to a massage chair, massage pads 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. Would you like a gentle or an intensive massage? Should the device also massage the neck and thighs? And how about a relaxing heat function? You should think about the following points before you decide on 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 points of tension. An acupressure massage is carried out using air cushions that inflate. A vibration massage relieves tension through gentle shaking.
- Massage Intensity: The pads have a different number of rotating massage heads, usually two to four. In addition, 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 heat function makes the massage particularly pleasant. The massage time can be set with a timer and an automatic switch-off prevents the device from overheating.
Massage Pad Test: These are our favorites
In our massage pad test, we took a closer look at popular massage seat pads and in terms of Massage techniques, massage intensity, massage area and additional functions compared to each other. We also included customer reviews in our comparison. Below are 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 individually adjusted. Air cushions in the waist and thigh area ensure 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 levels of intensity
massage areas: back, shoulders, neck, waist, hips, thighs
Additional functions: remote control, heating function, auto shut-off
Amazon Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars
2. Renpho Shiatsu massage pad
the Renpho massage mat is ergonomically shaped and nestles against your spine. You can have your entire back massaged, or just the upper or lower area. You also have the option of using the spot massage to specifically work on tension in individual areas. Depending on your preference, you can also adjust the heat and vibration. The breathable back massage cushion also ensures pleasant massage breaks in summer – without sweating or sticking.
massage techniques: Shiatsu, spot, vibration massage
intensity: 4 massage heads, 3 levels of intensity
massage areas: back, shoulders, neck, waist, hips, thighs
Additional functions: remote control, heating function, timer, automatic switch-off
Amazon Reviews: 4 out of 5 stars
3. Snailax SL233DE massage pad
Whether tension in the upper or lower back area or at a certain point – the Massage pad SL233DE from Snailax is dedicated to the desired areas and relieves muscle pain. You can adjust the width between the massage heads individually to your body. You can control the intensity of the massage by removing or putting on the cover. Hips and thighs can be loosened with the vibration massage integrated in 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, heating 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 counteract tension in the neck area, while the two massage heads on the back work on the areas to the right and left of the spine. the Comfier massage pad also has four acupressure air cushions in the thigh and waist area, which 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, heating function, auto shut-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 lower price segment compared to other models.
massage techniques: Shiatsu massage
intensity: 4 massage heads
massage areas: The back
Additional functions: remote control, heating function, auto shut-off
Amazon Reviews: 4 out of 5 stars
What should be considered when using it?
The manufacturers recommend one to start with Application time of 15 minutes, to 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, nothing speaks against a daily massage unit. However, it is recommended to approach the new device slowly and to take a break from time to time. If pain occurs during or after the massage, you should consult a doctor.
Is a massage pad useful?
A massage can release blockages and tension in the muscles and prevent pain. In addition, a massage contributes significantly to relaxation, reduces the stress hormones in the blood and strengthens the immune system, like a american study figured out. Massages can also stimulate blood circulation and metabolism. Since there is often a lack of time and money for a professional massage, a high-quality massage pad is one quite reasonable alternative. In the case of severe or chronic back problems, however, you should always consult a doctor who can make an individual diagnosis for you and prescribe the appropriate treatment.