Sciatica Nerve Pain affects approximately 10% to 40% of the population1 and accordingly is not an unknown issue. Massage is one of the possible treatments to get rid of Sciatica Pain.2 Here, a massage gun for self-massage can also come to the rescue.
If you’re looking for a massager to treat lower back pain, you’ve come to the right place. I myself have already held more than 40 different massage guns in my hand and tested them extensively. In this article, I’ll tell you which ones are best for massaging Sciatica Nerve Pain. I’ll also tell you what factors you should look for when choosing a massage device for this purpose.
The most important in a Nutshell
You are in a hurry? No problem, I got you:
These are my two favorite massage gun picks for sciatica:
Here are the most important facts about why a massage gun can help with sciatica and what features are important in the massager:
- Often Sciatica Nerve Pain is caused when pressure is applied to a portion of the sciatic nerve.
- A massage can help to reduce the pressure by loosen muscles and improve blood circulation.
- To loosen the muscle, a deep-tissue massage is necessary.
- The massage gun should have an amplitude of at least 10 mm and a stall force of at least 35 lbs to reach the deep tissue.
- A long handle is helpful to massage the lower back by yourself.
What is Sciatica Nerve Pain, and why can help a Massage Gun?
Sciatica is the term used to describe pain along the sciatic nerve. This is located on the lower back, hips, buttocks, and legs. Often Sciatica Nerve Pain is caused when pressure is applied to a portion of the nerve. This can be the result of a herniated disk or an overgrowth of bone, for example. Rarely, sciatica can also be triggered by a tumor.3
As a result of sciatica, one usually feels pain in the lower back and leg. The pain often occurs on one side, but in different forms. Some people describe the pain like a burning sensation. To others, it seems more stabbing or reminds them of an electric shock. Also, the pain often feels more intense in the leg than in the back.4
The positive thing about sciatica is that it usually disappears by itself after some time. Only rarely are more severe interventions such as spinal injections or even surgery necessary.
You can support the healing of Sciatica Nerve Pain with self-care treatments. These are mainly to reduce pain and increase mobility. They include, among others:
- The use of ice packs to reduce pain and swelling. These are placed on the affected area several times a day for 20 minutes at a time. after a few days, they are replaced with hot packs.
- Stretching the affected muscles gently. Get help from a professional instructor for this.
- Over-the-counter medicines for pain, swelling, and inflammation.
- Careful massage to loosen muscles and improve blood circulation.
On the last point, massage guns can be a great help. There are two reasons for this: On the one hand, you can’t really massage the area yourself since the lower back is rather difficult to reach after all. On the other hand, you don’t always want to ask another person for a massage, or you don’t have the money for regular professional massages.
Massage guns, however, allow you to easily massage the lower back yourself and counteract Sciatica Nerve Pain.
Learn more about it here: Will a Massage Gun help with Sciatica?
How to choose the best Massage Gun for Sciatica Nerve Pain
As explained in the previous section, massage can release tension in the muscle. This should reduce the pressure on the sciatic nerve and allow sciatica to decrease. To accomplish this task, the massage must penetrate deep into the tissue.
Accordingly, the amplitude is the most important feature when choosing a massage gun for sciatica nerve pain. It indicates how far the massage head moves back and forth with each stroke.
However, some massage guns have a very low amplitude. As a result, they don’t really push into the tissue but only provide vibration therapy. This at least helps to strengthen blood circulation, but not to effectively loosen muscles. Therefore, my recommendation is:
The amplitude of the massage gun should be at least 10 mm.
Besides the amplitude, you should also pay attention to the following criteria when choosing a massage gun for sciatica:
- Studies have shown that deep tissue massage can have an effect similar to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the treatment of chronic sciatica nerve pain.5 For deep tissue massage to occur, the massage gun also requires a certain stall force. Amplitude alone is not enough. The stall force should be at least 35 lbs.
- Accordingly, the motor should not be too weak. Massage guns with a weak motor tend to block when used with a little more pressure.
- The handle of the massage gun should not be too short. As already described, the lower back is rather difficult to reach. A long handle makes self-massage much easier.
5 best Massage Guns for Sciatica Nerve Pain
Now we’ve gone into enough theory. Here are my massage guns picks for the treatment of sciatica:
#1 Ekrin B37
Ekrin B37 is one of the best massage guns on the market. Accordingly, it is not a surprise that it is at the same time one of the best massagers for sciatica. For this, it has optimal features.
On the one hand, the depth of impact is 12 mm. On the other hand, the B37 has a stall force of approx. 40 lbs. This makes it very suitable for a deep-tissue massage.
The different speed levels are also very well thought out. So they already start at a low frequency. This allows for a fairly light massage, which is also suitable for beginners. On the higher levels, on the other hand, the massage is very intense and loosens even the hardest muscles.
Furthermore, the massage gun has a rather narrow, long handle. This is not only very easy to grip but also allows massaging hard-to-reach places (e.g., the lower back), which is very helpful when treating sciatica nerve pain.
Specifications
- Number of Attachments: 4
- Motor Power: not stated
- Amplitude: 12 mm
- Speed Levels: 5
- RPM: 1,400 to 3,200
- Noise (from 40 cm Distance): 47 to 64 dB
- Weight (without Attachment): 2.13 lbs (965 g)
- Battery Capacity: 2,500 mAH
- Battery Life: ca. 4 to 6 h
- Battery changeable: no
Scope of Delivery
- 1 x Ekrin B37
- 1 x Ball Attachment
- 1 x Flat Head Attachment
- 1 x Fork Attachment
- 1 x Bullet Attachment
- 1 x Carry Bag
- 1 x Charger
- 1 x Manual
Pros of the Ekrin B37
- space-saving transportable
- carrying bag included
- simple operability
- appears stable and of high quality
- well thought-out power levels
- 4 attachments included
- very well processed
- long, narrow handle
- fair price with discount code
Cons of the Ekrin B37
- rather high weight
- battery not replaceable
- no pressure sensor
- comparatively loud on high settings
View on ekrinathletics.com* Read the reviewSave 20 % with my code MGG20
#2 Flow PRO
With its amplitude of 14 mm, it is no problem for the Flow Pro to massage the deep tissue. The motor also has a high power of 100 W. Thus, it does not block even if you have to press harder once, as I can report from my own experience.
The Flow Pro also has an elongated handle. With it, you can effortlessly massage your lower back by yourself.
The only disadvantage of the massage gun in terms of massaging a sciatica nerve pains is its heavy weight. Since it is one of the heaviest massage guns, it can be a bit tiring to hold it for long periods of time.
Specifications
- Number of Attachments: 7
- Motor Power: up to 100 W
- Amplitude: 14 mm
- Speed Levels: 3
- RPM: 1,800 to 3,000
- Noise (from 40 cm Distance): 52 to 68 dB
- Weight (without Attachment): 2.61 lbs (1,185 g)
- Battery Capacity: 2,600 mAH
- Battery Life: ca. 3 to 4 h
- Battery changeable: yes
Scope of Delivery
- 1 x Flow PRO Massage Gun
- 1 x Ball Attachment
- 1 x Flat Head Attachment
- 1 x Fork Attachment
- 1 x Bullet Attachment
- 1 x Wedge Attachment
- 1 x Soft Attachment
- 1 x Super Soft Attachment
- 1 x Carry Bag
- 1 x Carry Case
- 1 x Charger
- 1 x Manual
Pros of the Flow PRO
- space-saving transportable
- carrying bag and pouch included
- simple operability
- appears stable and valuable
- well thought-out power levels
- 7 attachments included
- very well processed
- strong 100 W motor
- good impact depth
- exchangeable battery
Cons of the Flow PRO
- very high weight
- handle too wide
- rather high volume
- comparatively “expensive”
- unpleasant smell at the beginning
View on flowrecovery.com* Read the reviewSAVE 20 %: MASSAGEGUN20
#3 Hyperice Hypervolt
Anyone who has ever wanted to buy a massage gun will have heard something about the Hyperice Hypervolt. It is one of the most famous percussive massagers.
But it is not only because of its name that the Hyperice Hypervolt finds itself in this best list. It is also its features that make it a good choice for sciatica massages.
For example, the amplitude of 11 mm is exactly in the right range for deep tissue massage. This is supported by a powerful motor.
The few speed levels shouldn’t scare you off, either. Hyperice also offers an app control that allows you to adjust the power to your own needs.
Specifications
- Number of Attachments: 5
- Motor Power: not stated
- Amplitude: 11 mm
- Speed Levels: 3
- RPM: 1,800 to 3,200
- Noise (from 40 cm Distance): 47 to 53 dB
- Weight (without Attachment): 2.45 lbs (1,110 g)
- Battery Capacity: 2,400 mAH
- Battery Life: ca. 2 to 3 h
- Battery changeable: yes
Scope of Delivery
- 1 x Hyperice Hypervolt
- 1 x Ball Attachment
- 1 x Flat Head Attachment
- 1 x Bullet Attachment
- 1 x Fork Attachment
- 1 x Cushion Attachment
- 1 x Attachment Carry Bag
- 1 x Charger
- 1 x Manual
Pros of the Hyperice Hypervolt
- very low volume at the highest speed level
- space-saving transportable
- carrying bag for attachments included
- simple operability
- very good handling
- appears stable and of high quality
- well thought-out power levels
- 5 attachments included
- very well processed
- enables app control
- integrated pressure sensor
- replaceable battery
Cons of the Hyperice Hypervolt
- handle smells a bit like rubber
- very high weight
- price could be lower
- “only” three power levels
- no carry bag for the gun
#4 Theragun Elite
Therabody has released a total of four different massage guns in the current generation (4th). Of these, in principle, each is suitable for the massage of sciatica pain.
However, if I had to choose one of the different models, I would go for the Theragun Elite. Why? It has the same stroke length of 16 mm as the Theragun Prime and Theragun Elite. This makes it easy to reach the deep tissue.
In addition, the stall force of the Elite lies exactly between the two Theraguns mentioned above. It can therefore be handled by beginners but can also provide an intensive massage for experienced users.
Specifications
- Number of Attachments: 5
- Motor Power: not stated
- Amplitude: 16 mm
- Speed Levels: 5
- RPM: 1,750 to 2,400
- Noise (from 40 cm Distance): 61 to 68 dB
- Weight (without Attachment): 2.26 lbs (1,024 g)
- Battery Capacity: no information
- Battery Life: ca. 2 h
- Battery changeable: no
Scope of Delivery
- 1 x Theragun Elite
- 1 x Standard Ball Attachment
- 1 x Dampener Attachment
- 1 x Thumb Attachment
- 1 x Cone Attachment
- 1 x Wedge Attachment
- 1 x Carry Bag
- 1 x Charger
- 1 x Manual
Pros of the Theragun Elite
- 2 years warranty
- very good handling
- appears stable and valuable
- well thought-out power levels
- 5 attachments included
- very well processed
- with helpful app
- app control possible
- powerful motor
- good battery life
- high-quality carrying bag included
Cons of the Theragun Elite
- quite expensive
- extremely loud on all levels
- low frequency spectrum
- lubricant on the massage head
- battery not replaceable
#5 addsfit MAX
The Addsfit MAX is often referred to as an affordable alternative to the Hyperice Hypervolt and is the budget model among the best massage guns for sciatica nerve pain. In addition to its affordable price, other reasons speak in favor of the massager:
The amplitude of 12 mm with the quite powerful motor is more than enough to loosen the lower back. At the same time, the intensity of the massage can be adjusted very precisely to the user. The addsfit MAX has a total of 9 power levels that range over a large frequency spectrum.
Specifications
- Number of Attachments: 5
- Motor Power: not stated
- Amplitude: 12 mm
- Speed Levels: 9
- RPM: 1,700 to 3,200
- Noise (from 40 cm Distance): 48 to 63 dB
- Weight (without Attachment): 2.28 lbs (1,035 g)
- Battery Capacity: 2,500 mAH
- Battery Life: ca. 3 h
- Battery changeable: yes
Scope of Delivery
- 1 x addsfit MAX Massage Gun
- 1 x Round Head Attachment
- 1 x Flat Head Attachment with Bumps
- 1 x Fork Attachment
- 1 x Thumb Attachment
- 1 x Wedge Attachment
- 1 x Carry Bag
- 1 x Attachment Carry Bag
- 1 x Charger
- 1 x Manual
Pros of the addsfit MAX
- space-saving transportable
- carry bag included
- additional bag for attachments
- strong motor
- very good handling
- appears stable and valuable
- especially valuable attachments (5 pieces)
- very good price
- high-quality workmanship
- battery exchangeable
Cons of the addsfit MAX
- handle smells slightly of rubber
- high weight
- a bit too many power levels
- no additional functions
- very loud on high levels
View on addsfit.com* Read the reviewSAVE 20 % off with the coupon code MASSAGEGUN20
Which Theragun for Sciatica Nerve Pain?
Therabody massage guns are very well known. Accordingly, it is often asked which of them is best suited for the treatment of sciatica nerve pain.
Basically, all of the current 4th generation Theraguns can be used for the massage of sciatica nerve pain. All except the Theragun Mini have an amplitude of 16 mm. However, the mini also has an amplitude of 12 mm.
The other models differ mainly in motor power and stall force. The Theragun Elite is in the golden mean between the Prime and the Pro. It is, therefore, manageable for beginners but also offers an intensive massage for advanced users.
Still, Theraguns would not be my first choice to treat sciatica nerve pain. Otherwise, they would be at the top of the best list. However, the following things speak against it:
- All Theraguns are comparatively expensive. Other massage guns that do the job just as well can cost half as much or less.
- My measurements have shown that Theraguns are very noisy. This does not play a role in physical relaxation but very much in the mentally relaxing aspect of a massage.
- Therabody massage guns were once pioneers in their field. Now, apart from their shape, they are no longer unique. Many other manufacturers now produce massage guns, some of which are better.
Since I have tested all Theraguns of the current generation myself, you can read my experiences with the devices here:
How should I use a Massage Gun on Sciatica Nerve Pain?
Massaging sciatica nerve pain with a massage gun is not too difficult. To do this, proceed as follows:
- Choose an appropriate attachment. I myself would use a small to medium ball or flat head attachment. If available, you can also use a warming or cooling attachment to treat the swelling additionally.
- Massage the side where you feel the pain.
- Start with low intensity and increase only if the massage does not worsen the pain or make you feel uncomfortable.
- Move the massage gun over the lower back, thigh, and calf in smooth motions, using as little pressure as possible. Spare bones in the process. The force of the massage should not come from your arms but from the massage gun alone.
- Perform the massage for a maximum of 2 to 3 minutes at a time, but several times a day.
In the following YouTube video from Rehab and Revive, the use of a massage gun on sciatica is explained to you visually:
Conclusion – Best Massage Gun for Sciatica Nerve Pain in 2023
Sciatica nerve pain is a common problem in today’s society. Often the pain associated with it goes away on its own. However, with some measures, one can support healing. One is massage with a massage gun. Which massage device is best suited for this, I have explained to you in the article. I have also listed the best massage guns for sciatica nerve pain based on my own practical experience. I hope that I could help you with this!
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507908/
- https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/sciatica/sciatica-treatment
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sciatica/symptoms-causes/syc-20377435
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12792-sciatica
- https://www.hindawi.com/journals/tswj/2014/287597/
