Our feet do so much for us on a daily basis, such as helping us to walk around our homes, workplaces and neighborhoods.
However, it is often easy to take our feet for granted, that is until they start to really hurt. Running, walking and even standing up for long periods of time can wreak havoc on your feet, so it is very important to regularly look after them.
Neglecting our feet can lead to all sorts of problems, from blisters to more severe conditions such as plantar fasciitis.
One way that we can look after them is by regularly massaging them to release the tension from your muscles and improve blood circulation.
A foot massage is a great way to relax your feet and legs after a long day at work or school, and the good news is that you don't have to pay for a day at the spa to enjoy one.
Foot massagers are designed to provide a deep tissue massage for your feet and calves whenever you need one.
Most of them are electric devices with rollers designed to massage every inch of your foot to make them feel more relaxed after a busy day.
The benefits include reduced stress levels and increased muscle flexibility and even faster recovery from injuries such as sprained ankles.
If you're intrigued by this concept, then read on and discover some of the best foot and calf massagers for resting your weary feet.
OUR TOP PICK
This Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot Massager machine is a high quality product that is great for kicking back after a long day of exercise or work.
It is a streamlined design that allows you to stand it up in front of your sofa or armchair, while your feet receive a wondrous deep tissue massage.
After your feet are sufficiently relaxed, you can move the device closer to massage your calves and ankles as well.
This device has a foldable arm on the side that allows you to stand it up or lay it down, so you can use it however you want.
There are three different pressure settings, so you can control the intensity of your massage depending on how sore your feet are.
You have the option of selecting between a rolling foot massage, compression therapy, or a heat setting.
The Cloud Massage Shiatsu is reasonably compact, making it easy to store, but is quite heavy and as such won't be appropriate for traveling.
If you don't want to bend over to alter the settings, then you can buy this machine with a remote, so you can control it from wherever you are sitting or lying down.
Overall, this is a great all-purpose massager for treating a wide range of different foot conditions, or simply relaxing after a busy day.
Pros
- Versatile machine that massages your legs and feet while you are lying down or sitting.
- Offers heat and compression therapy.
- Easy to use, and can be bought with a remote control.
Cons
- The longest massage timer only lasts 15 minutes.
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EDITORS CHOICE
If you like the idea of having a foot roller that's portable, then this TheraFlow Foot Massager Roller could be just what you've been looking for.
This massager looks simple, but it is actually very effective in relieving pain in your feet and calves.
It is made up of wooden beads that have a special texture designed to relieve tension from your muscles.
All you need to do to use this massager is place it on the ground and roll your feet over the beads.
After you are done, you can pick it up with your hands and roll it up and down your calves for a simple, yet effective leg massage.
The best thing is that you don't need any batteries to enjoy instant relief for your sore feet.
Overall, this is a versatile foot massager that works well thanks to its incredible simplicity.
It is small enough to fit into most travel bags, and can easily be moved around when needed.
It is also very affordable, making it one of our top picks if you're looking for a good foot massager on a budget.
Pros
- Small size makes it easy to carry around.
- Easy to use with a simple design.
- Made from durable, high-quality Theaceae wood.
Cons
- No heat or compression settings.
Also available at
BEST VALUE
The TISSCARE Foot Massager is a fantastic little gadget that will help you relax your tired legs.
It features two large, massaging areas that can help to relieve tension from the muscles in your feet, calves and even arms.
With a total of 4 robotic hands, 8 rollers and 74 nodes, this machine offers a comprehensive and effective massage that is just the thing you need after a hard day.
There is a small stand on the bottom that allows you to put the device in any position you want, so you can receive a massage while sitting or lying down.
Once you are comfortable, you can adjust the settings without moving a muscle thanks to the helpful remote control.
With this remote you can set timers for up to 30 minutes, switch between three different intensities of massage and access the heat therapy mode.
You can remove the foot sleeves on this machine and clean them in the washing machine.
This helps to prevent the build up of sweat or other detritus, so you can keep your machine hygienic.
While it does make some noise while it is working, this machine is reasonably quiet and won't be too much of a disturbance while you are trying to relax.
Pros
- Versatile machine that can be used on your feet, calves, and arms.
- Includes options of heat therapy.
- The adjustable stand allows you to have this machine in any position you want.
Cons
- Not great for those with large or very flat feet.
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RUNNER UP
This air massager wraps around your feet and shins for a complete massage that will leave your legs feeling amazing.
The 2x2 airbags in this device are inflated and deflated to emulate the kneading and rolling movements of a deep tissue massage.
It is great for relieving pain caused by conditions such as plantar fasciitis, or increasing blood circulation in your lower legs.
There are two different modes to choose from and 3 different intensities, so you can adjust your massage to be just the way you like it.
If you are looking for a device that offers strong compression for your legs, then the wraparound design of this product will be perfect for you.
The air bladders are connected to a small remote control, so you can alter the intensity while sitting or lying down.
One of the great things about this product is that it is very lightweight and compact. This makes it very easy to store or pack in your suitcase for taking with you on holiday.
Once you feel the awesome power of the Fit King, you'll probably never want to take it off your feet.
You also don't need to worry about falling asleep with the machine running, since it will automatically turn itself off after 20-30 minutes of use.
Pros
- Compact design that fits easily into most spaces.
- Offers excellent compression.
- Adjustable intensity levels.
- Timer function.
Cons
- Doesn't have a heat therapy setting.
Also available at
RUNNER UP
If you are working on a tight budget, then this miniature handheld massager offers all you need for relaxing the muscles in your legs and feet.
It has four different vibrating nodes that can be used to relieve tension in the shoulders, back, arms, legs and feet.
Since you have to hold it in your hand, it requires a bit more work than a fully automatic massager, but it is still great for relaxing at the end of a long day.
One of the great things about the Ribbit is that it is extremely compact.
This makes it easy to take with you wherever you want, and you certainly won't have trouble finding the space to store it.
The Ribbit works best for areas where there is little circulation, so it is ideal for treating tired legs and feet.
It is designed to fit comfortably in your hands, and it is great for getting specific areas that a larger massage machine may struggle to reach.
As long as you have three AAA batteries, you can use the Ribbit to enjoy a quick massage whenever you want, wherever you want.
Pros
- Affordable.
- Easy to target specific, difficult to reach areas.
- Compact and portable design.
Cons
- Not as intense as a fully automated massage machine.
Also available at
RUNNER UP
This foot and calf massager is designed to deliver a powerful reflexology massage that will leave you feeling deeply relaxed and free from stress.
It features an open design that covers both your legs and feet, so you don't have to move the machine around to target different areas.
There are powerful rollers under the feet as well as nodes all the way up the leg that are intended to deliver a comprehensive massage that won't miss a single muscle.
You have the choice between two different speed settings or using auto mode, which will cycle through the different speeds and intensities for you.
The auto mode will only last 15 minutes, but you'd be surprised at just how relaxed your feet will feel afterwards.
Thanks to the adjustable base, you can angle this device however you want to get the perfect angle for where you are sitting.
The Reflex5s is made from durable plastic and stainless steel, making it both sturdy and reliable.
It also comes with removable sleeves that are machine washable, so you can keep your device perfectly hygienic.
While it is expensive, it is worth it for an effective deep tissue massage that you can enjoy whenever you want without having to pay to go to the spa.
Pros
- Massages both feet and legs at the same time.
- Machine washable sleeves.
- Durable sturdy construction.
- Auto mode for a full massage that cycles through different speeds and intensities.
Cons
- No heat therapy setting.
- Expensive.
Also available at
Buyers Guide
When you're looking for the right foot and calf massager, you'll find that there are plenty out there to choose from.
However, not all of them are created equal, and you'll want to make sure that you're buying one that's going to do what you need it to do.
To help you figure out which ones are really worth your money, we've included this section to show you what separates the good massagers from the great ones.
Hand-Held Vs Automatic
When shopping for a foot and calf massager, you'll often be presented with the choice of a fully automatic device or a manual one that you hold in your hands.
Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so which one you pick will depend on the type of massage you want.
Handheld massagers are generally better for targeting specific areas, and they give you full control over which muscles you want to relax.
Some of them will be battery powered and rely on vibrating nodes to relieve tension in your muscles, while others will simply be textured objects that you roll along your feet and legs.
These devices are simple to operate and can be used anywhere you want without having to dig out or plug in a large machine.
However, if you want a more intense massage that works on both your feet at the same time, you will want to buy a fully automatic machine.
These devices can target multiple areas at once, and don't require any work on your part at all.
As such, they allow you to sit back, relax and enjoy all the benefits from your deep tissue massage.
They are more expensive than the handheld versions, but they can also offer other features such as compression or heat therapy.
Open Massager Vs Closed Massager
Closed massagers are basically like a pair of electric slippers that you put your feet inside, so they can be massaged by the rollers and nodes.
The issue with these products is that they can only be used on your feet and won't work for any other areas of your body.
If you want a product that can massage your legs as well as your feet, then you should look for an open massager.
These devices have large sleeves that you can put your feet in, but since they are open you can also use them on your arms, and legs.
They are a great tool for getting a thorough massage wherever you need it most.
Open machines also have the notable advantage that you can often remove the sleeves and wash them to keep your machine clean and hygienic.
Durability And Portability
Depending on which one you buy, a massage machine can be a sizable investment. As such, you won't want one that is going to break after a few uses.
This is another reason to buy an open machine with removable sleeves, as if anything does go wrong, you may be able to access the internal components much more easily to see if you can fix it.
If you want to use your massage machine anywhere other than your home, then you will want to buy one that is portable.
Most models will have adjustable stands that can be used as a carrying handle, although some automatic devices will be too heavy to carry around with you.
As such, if you want a really portable massager, it will be best to choose a handheld one that is easier to fit in your bag.
Heat And Compression Modes
As well as rollers and other devices for kneading your muscles, some machines will come with options for compression and heat therapy as well.
Naturally, you won't want to spend extra for these features if you are never going to use them, but they can be very helpful for treating specific conditions.
Both heat and compression therapy can help to increase the flow of blood in your feet and calves.
This is great for anyone who suffers from inflammation or swelling, as well as those with conditions such as varicose veins, blood clots and leg ulcers.
If you suffer from any of these ailments, then it will be worthwhile for you to buy a machine that provides compression and heat therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Should A Foot Massage Last?
A foot massage shouldn't last longer than 30 minutes. You don't want to overdo it because this could result in soreness, pain or even inflammation of your feet or calves.
It's better to give yourself enough time to recuperate before moving on to the next session.
What Are The Benefits Of A Foot Massage?
There are many benefits associated with foot massages. Firstly, they can relieve stress and tension, promoting better sleep.
Secondly, they can improve circulation, which is good for people who are suffering from arthritis or diabetes.
Thirdly, they can help to stimulate lymphatic drainage, which helps to clear toxins out of your system. Finally, they can help to prevent muscle cramps and spasms.
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