Handheld massagers and electric massagers are popular choices when it comes to relieving stress and body aches. But which one is the best choice for you?
You’re about to find out in this complete guide. Learn the benefits of both electric massagers and handheld massagers as well as key differences between them so you can make an informed decision.
Introduction
Electric massagers and handheld massagers are both popular tools for relieving stress, soothing aches, improving circulation, and treating sore muscles. Whether you are looking for a more targeted treatment or a full-body massage experience, the two options offer unique advantages. Before making your choice, it’s important to understand the differences between electric massagers and handheld massagers.
This guide will provide an overview of both types of massager, their benefits and drawbacks, as well as recommended models of each so that you can decide which type is right for your needs. From comparing portability to examining the ranges of massage techniques available with each type of device, we’ll take a look at all of the factors that go into choosing between an electric or handheld device.
Benefits of Using Massagers
Whether you choose to use an electric massager or a handheld one, both types of massage can provide you with a number of physical and mental benefits. Massagers are designed to improve circulation, reduce pain and tension in the muscles, promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.
The use of massagers has been proven to be an effective way to help alleviate back pain, neck pain, headaches, stiffness and soreness. They can also help alleviate discomfort from plantar fasciitis, knee pain, carpal tunnel syndrome and sciatica as well as aid in the recovery process for muscle strains. Massagers also work on reflexology points to help promote overall well-being. Regular massage may have positive effects on sleep quality and mood enhancement as well as stimulate better immune system functioning.
Electric massagers offer the convenience of providing a full body massage while still allowing you to move around freely. The massage settings are customizable depending on intensity level which allows the user to focus on specific areas where they have tension or weakness. Electric massagers provide overall improved circulation with compression massage techniques including rolling motions and vibration therapy. Heat therapy is often incorporated with electric massagers adding extra deep penetration while increasing blood flow throughout your body giving you an even more relaxing effect compared to a manual handheld device.
Handheld massagers come in various shapes and sizes which allow the user greater flexibility when it comes targeting particular areas that need attention such as knots or tense muscles that may be uncomfortable into reach otherwise with an electric model. Handhelds are beneficial for those who want a customized program for different areas of their body through direct contact with their skin unlike electric models which rely solely on pressure points only by lifting off for changing surface area during long sessions as example sitting over legs during a longer foot massage session.
No matter your choice both types of masseurs provide many incredible benefits from improved circulation alone or working together with elements such as heat or cold therapy — incorporating use into your regular health routine may help promote overall general health maintenance by reducing stress levels — aiding relaxation — reducing muscle tension — improving sleep quality — releasing endorphins (happy hormones) –massage therapy is just another healthy way to enhance lifestyle needs without dependency altogether – make sure you’re getting regularly medical check- up’s at intervals best practices set for yourself by liaising primary doctor – drink lots of water physically active add other essential vitamins/ minerals through healthy eating habits to complement routine.
Overview of benefits
Electric massagers and handheld massagers each provide unique benefits that can help reduce muscle tension, ease discomfort, and provide relief. Generally speaking, electric massagers are ideal for those able to keep them in one area as they are more powerful and larger in size. On the other hand, handheld massagers are often light, easy to use on different parts of the body, and portable.
To choose between an electric or hand-held massager it depends on personal preference and needs. If you’re looking for a more convenient option that can be used at home or taken away with you on trips; a hand-held would be your best bet. However if you have the luxury off keeping the device in one location such as a living room or bedroom; an electric massager could provide additional power and greater convenience.
Whether you chose an electric or handheld option there are many features to consider before making your purchase. Factors such as massage speed/ intensity settings, accessories included that allow for added relaxation techniques such as heat/ vibration therapy; ergonomic designs; noise levels; pre-programmed massage modes; battery life etc should all be considerations prior to choosing which one is right for your needs.
Health benefits
Both electric massagers and manual massagers provide health benefits, so the choice between them comes down to personal preference.
Electric massagers are designed to provide deep-tissue massage to target specific problem areas. In addition to relieving minor muscular aches and pains, electric massagers can help improve blood flow, decrease stress and reduce inflammation. Electric massage chairs are especially beneficial as they offer a wide range of massage techniques in one convenient package.
Handheld massagers have the advantage of being portable and less expensive than electric devices, making them great for travel or taking with you on the go. In addition, many handheld massagers feature interchangeable attachments that allow you to customize your massage experience based on your exact needs. Handheld massagers may also be beneficial for helping with pain relief and increasing circulation–particularly through their use of heat or rolling motions applied directly to the skin surface area.
Convenience
Handheld massagers are known for their convenience and portability. The small size of the device makes it easy to travel with, and they can be used virtually anywhere without having to worry about cords or outlets.
With an electric massager, you will have to worry about electrical cords and how close the power outlet is to your massage area since it needs to be plugged in at all times. In terms of portability, handheld massagers generally have the edge.
On the other hand, electric massagers come with helpful accessories like attachments and variable speed settings, which handheld massagers are usually lacking. Some electric massagers also include built-in heat settings for added comfort and relief during your massage therapy sessions; this is something that handheld massagers are not able to offer.
Types of Electric Massagers
Electric massagers are motor-driven devices that deliver deep massage and compression to key muscle groups. Common examples of electric massagers include electronic shiatsu massage chairs, automatic vibrating chairs, electric foot massagers, mini massage pads, and so on.
These type of massagers can be divided into four distinct categories.
- Back Massagers: These massager chairs and pads feature a variety of nodes that massage the back such as kneading, vibrating and pressing. Some back massagers also use heat therapy to enhance relaxation effects of the treatment. Back massagers vary in size from large massage chairs to handheld pad models and can be used at home or in professional settings.
- Neck Massagers: Neck Massagers help release neck muscle tension with various kinds of massage nodes such as vibration, percussion and compressions or tapping movements which target the acupressure points located in this area for a more effective relaxing effect. They typically feature multiple levels of intensity for comfort adjustments according to needs per user’s preference. Some models also come with cutouts designed to enclose the neck area for increased comfort level while others offer ergonomic position options such as reclining mode or elevated headrests with lateral tilting capabilities which can improve alignment while allowing users not to have disconnect between arms and body during a session.
III . Handheld Massagers: Ideal for smaller areas like feet or arms these type of device are built with convenient handle grips so you may target specific tight knots without needing someone else’s help; some even come with powered attachments for stronger treatment sensations especially for lower legs or feet where tissue tends to be thicker than other parts of your body due its weight bearing role which makes electric hands-free solution quite appealing than manual hand held versions where you need someone else’s assistance.
IV . Whole Body Massage Chairs: These types electric massage chairs combine traditional Thai Shiatsu with cutting edge technology like 3D rollers & airbag compression they usually come equipped with extra leg extensions plus zero gravity positioning combining heat therapy & chromotherapy too; they provide full coverage over your entire body –head-to-toe– providing unparalleled relaxation after subjecting yourself during period long work hours constantly staring goggle eyes at computer monitors all day… Dealing a great job indeed many times working against time isn´t an easy task believe me… With these chair designs revitalization comes naturally!
Percussion
Percussion massagers combine the power of rapid oscillation, pulsating vibration and tapping motions to deliver rapid bursts that penetrate deep into the muscle tissue. Many electric massagers provide a percussion-action massage with varying intensity levels, which can be great for loosening sore and tight muscles.
They often include interchangeable heads or attachments that hit different pressure points for truly personalized relief. Depending on the handheld or electric massager you choose, desired benefits can range from circulation boost to improved range of motion, as well as mood and stress levels improvement.
Shiatsu
The Shiatsu massage technique utilizes the fingers, thumbs and palms to apply pressure to specific points on the body, replicating traditional Japanese massage techniques. Shiatsu massage can provide relief from a variety of ailments including muscular tension, stiff joints and headaches. It works by stimulating the circulation of fluids around the body and allowing the flow of “ki” or “chi” energy throughout.
Shiatsu devices offer more precision than traditional handheld massagers since they use multiple nodes that move up and down along areas of your body instead of kneading in just one spot. The nodes will glide along your back, legs, arms and other areas with either automatic or manual movements. You will have more control over which sections are targeted by selecting particular settings with a remote control or on-screen navigation system. Most models also allow you to customize heat settings for a more soothing experience.
Vibration
Vibration massagers are becoming increasingly popular. The basic premise of this type of massager is that it can help to direct power deep into the muscle tissue, creating therapeutic effects such as relief from stress and tension. Vibratory massagers come in two main varieties — electric and handheld — both to create soothing vibrations which increase circulation to help alleviate pain or discomfort.
Electric Vibration Massagers: Electric vibration massagers are powered via an AC adaptor or battery pack, depending on the model. They create greater intensity with pinpoint accuracy for precise penetration into tired muscles for deep tissue relief. This type of massage often fixes deeper set issues quickly and often far more effectively than your average handheld massage tool.
Handheld Vibration Massagers: For movements involving more surface area and more of a broad release, a handheld vibration massager is an ideal choice. While there are certain electric models that allow you to reach broader areas, they don’t quite offer the same positional versatility as a smaller, hand-held version does. They’re incredibly easy to use and often contain a variety of built-in settings that allow you choose different typesof massages targeting specific needs like kneading and tapping techniques or even intense shiatsu pressure massage techniques as well!
Compression
Compression is one of the most important features to consider when deciding which type of massager is best for you.
Electric massagers use compressed air to provide a cushioning action between the massage tool head and the patient’s body. This reduces tension on muscles, allowing them to relax so that therapy can be more effective. The intensity of compression can also be adjusted, providing more customization if desired.
Handheld massagers typically do not provide as much pressure since they rely on the body’s strength and gravity to create pressure when pressing down onto a particular area. The pressure needs to be adjusted manually, although some massagers have variable knobs which can help in this regard. If you require more intense compression than what handheld massagers are able to provide, an electric massager may be a better choice for you.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Massager
When buying a massager, there are several factors that should be taken into consideration to make sure you buy the best product for your needs.
- Type – Electric massagers are ideal for more serious issues such as nagging muscle pain, deep-seated aches and tight knots. On the other hand, handheld massagers are better suited for lighter muscle knots and easing strained muscles caused by minor tightness or exercise-related soreness.
- Power Source – Electric massagers come in either corded or cordless models, whereas handheld massagers typically need to be connected to an electrical outlet while in use. To avoid the hassle of dealing with cords, make sure to read up on what type of power source your desired electric massager requires before making a purchase.
- Area Coverage – Select a model that is capable of covering enough area of your body that you want it to work on. While most electric massage products have some sort of adjustable heads that adjust coverage, this is especially important for those looking for extra power in larger areas such as backs and legs.
- Speed Control – Most electric models come with variable speed settings so you can adjust the massage intensity according to your needs or preference while also allowing adjustable levels of vibration intensity found in some models as well.
- Design/Size – The size and shape of your chosen model should make it easy for you reach hard-to-reach spots on your back or other areas where muscles may be tenser than normal without having to contort yourself too much or use extra force when massaging yourself with an electric device.
- How to Use a Massager
It is important to know how to properly use a massager in order to get the maximum benefit from its use. Massagers are useful for providing relaxation, relieving tension and reducing pain. Here are some tips on using electric and handheld massagers:
Electric Massagers:
- Choose a massage setting that is suitable for your needs, whether it be a deep tissue massage or a gentle kneading massage.
- Start on low settings and increase the intensity gradually until you are comfortable with the level of intensity experienced during the massage session.
- Hold the device securely against your body in order to ensure maximum pressure during the massage session and avoid injury.
- Do not apply too much pressure when using an electric massager as this can cause bruising or other injury.
- Be sure to follow all safety instructions provided with each device regarding use and care of massagers and their Corded/Cordless functions, if applicable.
Handheld Massagers:
- Ensure you grip the device firmly in order to maximize its effectiveness during each massage session for comfort and relaxation purposes, as well as for reducing muscle tension and pain levels by increasing circulation of blood flow within muscles near application sites throughout simple manual movements such as circular motions or kneading/hair brushing movements at times.
- Use lighter pressure when using handheld massagers over larger surface areas such as your back or thighs if desired, while heavier pressures may be used over smaller areas such as arms or hands if desired.
- Adjust the strength of your grip occasionally in order to vary pressure accordingly for appropriate comfort levels during your session according to individual preferences.
- Keep massaging area cool with light application of oil-based lubricant between sessions whenever possible, which can reduce unwanted strain effects on hands due additional heat generated during longer sessions with heavier pressures upon completion.
Maintenance and Care of Massagers
Regardless of the type of massager you choose, proper care and maintenance is key to ensuring a long-lasting product. With handheld massagers, it is important to only use attachments specifically approved for the unit. These attachments generally come with the device and should not be mixed and matched from different units.
It is recommended that after each use, the device be wiped down with a damp cloth (or it can be submerged in water) and all areas cleaned of sweat particles and dirt. Oils or lubricants should never be applied to the surface.
The same applies for electric massagers -the surface should also be wiped down with a damp cloth after every use to remove any sweat or dirt buildup on its exterior as well as its interior parts, such as any moving pieces.
Another way to extend your device’s life expectancy is to store it properly, meaning keeping it away from direct sunlight or any other sources of heat. By taking these few steps following each use you can ensure that your massager provides years of stress-relieving massage satisfaction!
Conclusion
In conclusion, electric massagers and handheld massagers each provide individual benefits for various purposes. Both the electric and handheld massager are effective tools in managing pain and stress relief. Depending on your needs, budget, convenience and available space, each of these massagers have their own unique advantages and disadvantages.
For example, electric massagers offer customizable massage settings that can be adjusted to take into account different body types while handheld massagers are more practical due to their portability and affordability.
When choosing a type of massage device, consider the strength of the motor, additional attachments, size of the unit and effectiveness at relieving your muscle tension. With so many options available on the market it is important to do some research before choosing a type of massage device that best fits your needs. We hope this guide has helped you gain insight into which device is best for your individual wants and needs.
See Also :
- Best Leg Massager 2023
- Best Leg Massager For Circulation 2023
- Best Massager For Plantar Fasciitis 2023
- Best Massager For Sciatica 2023
- Best Neck Massager For Migraines 2023