From walking to running, it's no secret our feet experience a tremendous amount of wear and tear throughout our daily routines. If you're hoping to relax your tired tootsies after hours of standing at work or doing squats at the gym, electric foot massagers are an easy and affordable solution.
Whether you experience excruciating arch pain from plantar fasciitis or a mild stress fracture from a high-impact sport, we're here for you. Shop TODAY spoke with three board-certified podiatrists to help us round up the best foot massagers for overall pain relief and relaxation.
What type of foot massagers are best?
If you're struggling to find the best massager for your feet and don't know where to start, don't worry; our experts can help.
"Sequential air compressive massagers are excellent because they apply adjustable pressure on the feet and calves, which feels incredible," suggests Dr. Jason Rabinowitz, a podiatrist in New Jersey. This kind of compression therapy is designed to help increase blood circulation in the lower legs, ankles and feet.
"In addition, it relieves muscle tension and assists the lymphatic system in pumping swelling and inflammation up and out of the legs," he explains.
Rabinowitz also recommends shiatsu massagers, which help relieve muscle aches and cramps that many individuals feel in the arch, heel or ball of the foot. Moreover, a shiatsu foot massager is designed to imitate the feeling of a trained professional applying direct pressure to the feet.
"Whether it is from plantar fasciitis or the constant pressure of workouts or long workdays, this type of massager can be a great way to relieve pain, increase circulation and loosen muscles that tighten all day as we stand," he shares.
When it comes to finding the right massager for your feet, Dr. Anne Sharkey, a double board-certified podiatrist in Austin, Texas, says that it is important to consider what your goal of use is. "If you are looking to relieve, achy and tired muscles, I would recommend the shiatsu type," says Sharkey.
The best foot massagers, according to podiatrists and editors
Most affordable expert pick:
Sharkey is a big fan of the Nektek foot massager as it combines heat, air compression and shiatsu kneading for optimum benefit. "I like that each of the features can be independently adjusted for each individual's need," she explains.
This bestselling electric foot massager comes in three sophisticated hues and has a whopping 12,000+ five-star ratings on Amazon.
Editor pick:
I [Wise] tested the Breo Foot Massager and was instantly relaxed. Not only is it easy to use, but it also features different modes and strengths to meet your ideal needs. I have been using this electric massager almost every day after work for a few months now and have zero complaints.
Deep-kneading:
“This is a great affordable and convenient option,” suggests Rabinowitz. “It combines deep kneading, shiatsu, compression and heat. It takes very little effort to use this machine and can provide great relief for loosening up muscles,” he says.
Rabinowitz also says this foot massagers is especially good for loosening the tight band of tissue responsible for plantar fasciitis.
Best overall:
“This foot massager offers a powerful comforting massage experience, combining a rotation ball, rolling stick and heating elements for the ultimate three-in-one foot treatment,” says Cunha.
“You can customize the experience with adjustable intensity, choosing from three levels of massaging and air compression to accommodate your preferences with an optional soothing heat function that can warm your entire feet up to 122°F,” he explains.
Expert favorite:
This option by SharperImage.com "offers a relaxing and effective foot massage experience for soothing sore muscles and promoting relaxation," shares Dr. Miguel Cunha, a board-certified podiatric surgeon and owner of Gotham Footcare.
"This massager has 12 massage heads that deliver a rolling shiatsu massage and includes variable-pressure inflating air cuffs, which offer a comforting compression and deep relief for tired feet," he explains.
Can help ease swelling:
Rabinowitz refers to this Doctor Life massager as an excellent option for those who struggle with foot and leg swelling, which is typically those who spend long hours on their feet.
"There is no part of the body further away from the heart than the feet and lower legs which is why many people swell in these areas. This provides a needed boost to your circulation to remove all the excess fluid while providing a great feeling massage at the same time," he explains.
More foot massagers to shop
Most budget-friendly:
You'll have all you knead with this shiatsu foot and calf massager which features a special button to control the heat. This portable machine is easy to store and comes with a built-in chip to track the usage time. Satisfied Amazon customers speak to the ease of use and overall quality of this foot massager.
Most versatile:
This Shop TODAY Gifts We Love award-winning shiatsu massager works for both your feet and back, helping relieve pain in no time. It features an ergonomic design with flexible massage nodes and two heating level options for optimum temperature. With over 8,600 five-star ratings on Amazon, it's no wonder this relaxing massager is one of our favorite picks.
Do electric foot massagers really work?
If you typically prefer to visit a professional for a reflexology massage, we understand you may be skeptical about an at-home electric foot massager.
Rabinowitz, however, says there is no need to be concerned: "Even though a manual foot massage is beneficial, almost all of the same benefits can be achieved through electric-powered foot massagers."
"Attempting to massage your foot manually can be strenuous and less relaxing, and hiring a professional can be expensive and usually lacks convenience," he continues. "For these reasons, an electric foot massager works very well and makes a lot of sense."
How we chose
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best foot massagers by enlisting the recommendations of board-certified podiatrists. We also filtered our searches for top-rated products and read through countless user reviews to find a couple shopper favorites as well.
Meet the experts
At Shop TODAY, our reporters interview a range of qualified sources and experts to capture a wide scope of perspectives on a given topic. We also make sure that all expert guidance and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
- Dr. Jason Rabinowitz, DPM, is a podiatrist in New Jersey.
- Dr. Anne Sharkey, DPM, FACFAS, is a double board-certified podiatrist in Austin, Texas.
- Dr. Miguel Cunha, DPM, is a board-certified podiatric surgeon and Owner of Gotham Footcare.
