Shoe Care & Comfort

Best Electric Vibrating Foot Massagers [Review of the Top 5 for 2019]

Electric foot massagers provide more than just a way to relax. After a day of standing or walking in tight shoes, it’s nice to use a vibrating foot massager to soothe your aching feet. But comfort and luxury aren’t the only benefits of massaging the feet.

A vibrating foot massager works by applying deep pressure to your feet or foot. This helps to improve circulation. Some models, such as a shiatsu massager, add heat to your massage.

They work due to the vibration and rotation of massage heads. Some will require you to insert your feet into designated spaces. Others will allow you to keep your feet slightly elevated on a board and vibrate soothingly beneath you.

By targeting the pressure points of your feet, like a shiatsu massage, electric massager machines provide valuable benefits for your health and immune system. Let’s take a closer look.

What Are the Different Types of Foot Massagers?

We all want the best foot massager on the market, but there are different variations. Choosing the right one should be based on your specific needs. Here are the options:

  • Manual massagers use a ball (or multiple rollers). You either roll them over your feet or set them on the ground and roll your feet back and forth over the ball. These are typically the least expensive massagers due to their simplicity.
  • Electric massagers use vibration or oscillating massage heads. They both work the muscle tissue in your feet. They contain an internal motor and must be plugged into an electrical outlet to function properly.
  • Shiatsu massagers fall into the category of electric massagers. Instead of simple vibration, they contain kneading heads that are designed to go deeper into the muscle tissue of your feet. Often, they also feature heating elements.
  • Infrared massagers add warmth to soothe the aching muscles of your feet.
  • Water massagers combine heat, vibration, and more to offer a sensory relaxation experience along with a massage.

What's the best electric foot massager?

Is a Foot Massager Right for Me?

Whether you’re a construction worker, an athlete, or a waitress, you can find relief and relaxation with the right reflexology techniques.

What is reflexology? It is the practice of applying pressure to different parts of the body. These pressure points offer health benefits to your entire body. These include:

  • Alleviating stress
  • Maintaining overall health
  • Boosting energy

Massage therapy is an effective combination of pressing, touching, twisting and stretching. Reflexology practices have been around for centuries. They heal and provide relief without the use of prescription or synthetic medication.

Electric massagers are designed to simulate the motions of a certified massage therapist’s hands. The right massager will help to relax your foot muscles, improve circulation, and essentially heal your feet. Let’s explore some of the top-rated options:

Review of the Top 5 Electric Vibrating Foot Massagers of 2019

MedMassager MMF06 Review

Type of Massage: Vibrating

The MedMassager MMf06 is designed for both therapeutic, and medical use. It’s especially helpful in offering a foot massage for diabetic neuropathy. Foot machines for diabetics can help to improve circulation and lower body comfort and function.

This massager is approved by the FDA and CSA for both reliability and therapeutic use. While you don’t have to need a massager for medical reasons to benefit from using the MedMassager, it can be a huge help people with circulatory conditions.

MedMassager MMf06 review

Some of the most notable features include:

  • 11 speeds, up to 3,700 RPM.
  • Oscillating foot pad and Arch-Bar.
  • Pressure point-targeting surface.

Pros:

  • Used to clinically treat circulation issues.
  • Most powerful electric foot massager in the U.S (without a license).
  • Stimulates circulation.
  • Footpad at the optimal angle to reach pressure points.
  • Designed for therapeutic use.
  • Can also be used on calves and shins.
  • Wide surface to fit feet of all sizes.

Cons:

  • Large and somewhat bulky.
  • Vibrates and quite loud.
  • No heat option available.

One issue with the MedMassager is that it can be too large and powerful. With that in mind, it may not be the best massager for casual usage, but it’s highly effective.

If you’re looking for relaxation at the end of a long day, this will get the job done. And if you struggle with conditions like diabetes, or have other blood flow or circulation problems, this massager was designed with you in mind.

It is built to last and is powerful enough to touch on all the necessary pressure points of your feet. Your feet and entire body will feel better in no time.

Check the Price of the MedMassager MMf06 on Amazon!

Practical:5 out of 5 stars (5.0 / 5)
Effectiveness:5 out of 5 stars (5.0 / 5)
Features:5 out of 5 stars (5.0 / 5)
Value:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)
Average:4.9 out of 5 stars (4.9 / 5)

Medi-Rub Foot Massager 2000 Plus Review

Type of Massage: Vibrating

The Medi-Rub Foot Massager 2000 Plus is used in the health and fitness industries.

With a heavy-duty design and an industrial-strength motor, this massager can work deep into muscle fibers to alleviate pain for even the harshest aches and pains.

Medi-Rub Foot Massager 2000 Plus Review

It also features:

  • Strong vibrating speeds.
  • Ability to massage calves and ankles.
  • Durable, all-steel inner construction.

Pros:

  • Works well for people with diabetes, poor circulation, COPD.
  • Stimulates nerve endings.
  • Can be used while wearing shoes.

Cons:

  • No kneading action – strictly vibration.
  • Difficulty staying in place due to heavy vibrations
  • No heat option.

This massager is another great option for people with poor circulation and health issues. It may not be the best option for someone just looking for one-off light relaxation and muscle relief.

It’s a powerful massager that will soothe your feet, calves, and ankles in no time.

Check the Price of the Medi-Rub Foot Massager 2000 Plus on Amazon!

Practical:5 out of 5 stars (5.0 / 5)
Effectiveness:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)
Features:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)
Value:4 out of 5 stars (4.0 / 5)
Average:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Brookstone Shiatsu Foot Massager Review

Type of Massage: Kneading

This Brookstone Shiatsu Foot Massager mimics the pressure point touch of a traditional Shiatsu massage, along with heat. The goals of a traditional Shiatsu massage are to target the pressure points, reduce tension, and improve circulation.

This massager uses both rollers and air compression. With different modes of intensity, you can choose the overall type of massage experience you’d like with each use.

Brookstone Shiatsu Foot Massager Review

Additional features include:

  • Three auto-massage programs.
  • Selectable heat options.
  • Zip-out linings for easy cleaning.

Pros:

  • Designed to make feet more receptive to massage
  • Heat settings that are customizable to comfort
  • Relaxes joints
  • Softens calluses
  • Automatic shut-off

Cons:

  • Heat function too gentle for some
  • Low durability

Brookstone is a trusted brand when it comes to quality products. This massager is great for people who are on their feet all day. It is lightweight, easily adjustable and promotes relaxation.

When combined with controlled heat, it can offer a real Shiatsu-like experience in the comfort of your home. It may be the best massager for a spa-like experience or casual use.

Check the Price of the Brookstone Shiatsu Foot Massager on Amazon!

Practical:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)
Effectiveness:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)
Features:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)
Value:3.5 out of 5 stars (3.5 / 5)
Average:4.3 out of 5 stars (4.3 / 5)

Beurer FM 60 Shiatsu Foot Massager Review

Type of Massage: Kneading

The Beurer FM 60 Shiatsu Foot Massager focuses on both heat and pressure to perform a Shiatsu-like massage. As a foot massage machine with heat, it focuses on the foot reflex zone, and pressure points.

It has eighteen powerful massage heads that can deeply penetrate muscle tissue and release tension.

Beurer FM 60 Shiatsu Foot Massager Review

Additional features include:

  • There are two speed levels with different massage strengths.
  • Adjustable base feet for comfortable positioning.
  • Foot-operated for added convenience.
  • Adjustable inclination angle.
  • Convenient cable storage beneath the device.

Pros:

Cons:

  • Heat function offers infrared warmth – not a powerful heat.
  • Massage heads are limited in movement.
  • Massage heads are hard and can be uncomfortable for sensitive feet.

This Beurer massager can help to alleviate foot pain. It works well for minor foot conditions, and also plantar fasciitis. If you stand on your feet all day or having aching feet, the subtle heat and powerful massage heads can relax your foot muscles and tissue.

If you have circulatory issues or extreme foot pain, it may not be strong enough to get to the root of the problem. It’s good for general relaxation after a hard day on your feet. Exceptional value for money.

Check the Price of the Beurer FM 60 Shiatsu Foot Massager on Amazon!

Practical:4 out of 5 stars (4.0 / 5)
Effectiveness:4 out of 5 stars (4.0 / 5)
Features:4 out of 5 stars (4.0 / 5)
Value:5 out of 5 stars (5.0 / 5)
Average:4.3 out of 5 stars (4.3 / 5)

uComfy Shiatsu Foot Massager with Heat Review

Type of Massage: Kneading

If you’re looking for a foot massager that focuses on relaxation and the relief of muscle aches, the uComfy Shiatsu Foot Massager is the perfect solution.

It’s an easy-to-use massager that features several different modes. So, no matter what your needs may be, you can customize it. It helps with circulation and to regulate blood flow.

Plus, the option for heat and air pressure can be useful in adding extra comfort and relaxation. It’s versatile and lightweight so that you can use it in any room of your home.

uComfy Shiatsu Foot Massager Review

Some additional features include:

  • Gentle kneading and vibrating.
  • On/off toggling for all extra features (heat, air pressure, kneading function).
  • Lightweight and portable.
  • Massages both the top and bottom of feet.

Pros:

  • Easy to use.
  • Air pressures squeeze the feet, similar to blood pressure machine.
  • Five intensity levels.
  • Toggle switch for heat.

Cons:

  • May be too small for people with larger feet.
  • Doesn’t always reach the heel region of the foot.
  • The power cord is relatively short.
  • Kneading function can be too intense on the highest setting.

The uComfy massager is a great way to unwind after being on your feet all day.

It’s recommended to start at the lowest setting on the kneading function. If you are not used to shiatsu-type massages, starting at a less intense level can ease you into the process.

From there, you can work your way up, as some people have complained about the intensity of the highest level. However, that is one of the great things about this particular machine – much of it is customizable to fit your tastes and needs.

Whether you want to adjust the intensity level or the heat, this massager is great for someone just discovering the benefits of a great shiatsu massage.

Check the Price of the uComfy Shiatsu Foot Massager with Heat on Amazon!

Practical:4 out of 5 stars (4.0 / 5)
Effectiveness:4 out of 5 stars (4.0 / 5)
Features:4 out of 5 stars (4.0 / 5)
Value:4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)
Average:4.1 out of 5 stars (4.1 / 5)

What Are the Health Benefits of Foot Massagers?

Improving circulation is one of the benefits. This is especially useful for people with health problems, like diabetes. It has the potential to improve the overall circulation and blood flow in the lower part of your body.

Whether you have an office job or live a sedentary lifestyle most of the time, the muscles in our feet often go unused. Add in uncomfortable shoes and circulation tightness can cause a lot of pain and ache. Just a 10 to 20-minute foot massage can alleviate much of the discomfort.

What's the best foot massager on the market?

It also gives you a chance to pay attention to your feet. Often, we don’t notice issues like bunions, corns, toenail fungus, etc., until they have become a problem.

Other health benefits include:

  • Reduces PMS and menopause symptoms.
  • Reduces fluid retention (edema) in the feet of pregnant women.
  • Helps with plantar fasciitis (inflamed band of tissue between the toe and heel) and general inflammation.
  • Lowers blood pressure.
  • Alleviates migraines and headaches.
  • Lowers the effects of depression.

Getting massaged isn’t something that has to be considered a luxury. Getting professional foot massages regularly can become expensive quickly.

Instead, try an electric vibrating foot massager. You can use them as often as you’d like. They’re designed with comfort, circulatory improvement, and relaxation in mind.

Some electric massagers are even used for therapeutic purposes. They can help with health conditions like diabetic nerve issues, plantar fasciitis, and more.

Side Effects of Using a Foot Massage Machine

Negative side effects following a foot massage are rare. However, some people may experience:

  • Cold or flu-like symptoms due to toxins leaving the body
  • Tiredness
  • Headache
  • Sensitivity in the feet
  • Nausea

These symptoms will go away after a night of sleep. If you experience any prolonged negative symptoms after using a foot massager, consult your doctor.

There are a few scenarios in which you should contact your doctor before using a massager. Be sure to ask your physician for clearance on using a massager if you are:

  • Pregnant
  • Breastfeeding
  • Wearing a pacemaker
  • At risk of developing blood clots
  • A diabetic

How to Choose the Right Electric Vibrating Foot Massager

Whether you’re looking for relaxation or relief, a quality foot massager can help.

Foot massagers don’t have to be a luxury. The products listed in this article are affordable and can be used daily or as needed. As you can see, however, there are two distinct types of massagers with different capabilities.

What’s the Best Therapeutic Massager?

The best vibrating massager for therapeutic purposes and relaxation is the MedMassager MMf06. It’s heavy-duty design and power is ideal for those who need assistance with circulatory problems.

The biggest drawbacks to this massager come from its size and power. So, it may not be the best solution for someone simply trying to relax at the end of a long day.

If you suffer from poor circulation, diabetes, or severe muscle aches, it’s a workhorse that is extremely effective. If you do have a pre-existing health condition, talk with your doctor before you begin using this, or any foot massager.

This machine is approved by the FDA. It is used by multiple health professionals to treat circulatory issues. If intensive circulation therapy is what you need, the investment is worth it.

Best Vibrating Foot Massager for Muscle Relief

The best Shiatsu-type massager is the Brookstone Shiatsu Foot Massager due to pre-programmed settings and customizable heat adjustments.

A shiatsu massager will apply more pressure to your feet. It focuses on specific pressure points and kneads the feet with special massage heads. By targeting those pressure points, shiatsu massagers are good for general relief. Shiatsu massage can also help to boost energy, relieve stress, and cure minor ailments.

Foot massagers can save time, money, and offer comfort in the privacy of your own home. The best vibrating foot massager will provide that comfort, and, relaxation without the price tag.