Many people ask me if I recommend any self massage tools. Although I am very picky, there are a few that I have found useful and effective, and that I own. These tools literally keep me from breaking down and are great for maintenance in between professional massages. I've linked these products to Amazon, which most of the time has the best deal, but feel free to search the internet for better pricing.
The Tiger Tail is a fantastic roller that is great for rolling out anywhere on your legs. It makes it easy for you to get deep work done and massages hard-to-reach places like your hamstrings. I love it because it isn't super large and is more firm than others I have seen. If any of you struggle with IT Band tightness and pain, this will do the trick and roll those trigger points right out!
The Roleo is just like sticking your arm in a wringer. The knobs and bumps, along with the customized level of tightness, are perfect for treating Carpul Tunnel Syndrome, Tennis Elbow, pain or weakness in your forearms or hands, etc. I use this ALL THE TIME! Since I use my hands so much, my flexors and exstensors really need a good "wringing out."
This cane is PERFECT for reaching those trigger points on your back that you just can't get to. All the knobs and bumps are great for massaging many different parts of your body, including your neck. This can be a lifesaver, but be careful on the amount of pressure you use, or you may end up bruising yourself.
I've used this marble stone that fits so easily in my hand to massage many different parts of my body, including neck, head, arms, glutes, legs, etc. I've found it extremely helpful in isolating a trigger point that's causing sciatic nerve pain in my glutes while laying on the floor on my side. I also use it frequently on my neck and head to get rid of pesky trigger points causing headaches.
https://www.allegromedical.com/products/basic-marble-body-stone-set-6-piece/
After researching all over the internet and buying and taking back over 8 different heating pads, I FINALLY found THE BEST! I needed one that would actually get hot enough. That was my number one requirement. Most heating pads nowadays do not get very hot and just don't work for severe pain. I suffer with endometreosis and need DEEP, penetrating heat. This pad has it all. It's weighted and has moist heat that it draws from the air, with a velcro band to keep in place. It's also really big and will cover your whole back! It has a washable cover and is super bending with no plastic. The ONE and only draw back is that it's max time to stay on is 60 minutes, and then it will automatically turn off with a beeping noise, and has no backlight on the digital screen, which isn't ideal at night. But I find this to be a minor nuisance. It gets to a super hot temp of 166 degrees, and you pick the exact temp you like. It's fantastic! Worth EVERY penny! I include one in my doula bag and at my massage practice.
These types of gel packs are great for icing areas while still being hands free and mobile. They are soft and mold to the body perfectly. Highly recommend!
I don't know if you have problems with your rib pulling out of adjustment, but this thing actually works to get it back in! It has saved me from going to the chiropractor and helps to stretch out your back. Definitely a must have!!
This is the ONE and ONLY electric massager I have ever liked. I tried it at Costco and immediately fell in love! It is great for massaging your neck and back, but really can be used anywhere on your body. Both me and my husband use this often, and it has really been a lifesaver when we couldn't get a full body massage for whatever reason. Definitely worth your money, and lasts a long time!!
This is the lotion I use, and it is light and has a great scent. My clients love it because it doesn't leave an oily residue, but it glides perfectly for massage. I've used it for 12 years and I've never found better!
I hope you find these useful and helpful for your at-home maintenance! Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions! Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/healingpoweroftouch/ and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/healingpoweroftouchtherapy for specials and more awesome posts!