Massage balls are terrific, often portable tools that are great for working kinks and knots out of muscles. Typically made from rubber, massage balls differ in size, weight, and design, with some balls including additional surface level spikes or knobs designed to help provide additional relief. Massage balls may take some getting used to, but once the technique for using them is learned, they can be a great resource for those looking for quick muscular relief.
Folks typically use massage balls by either lying down on top of them or leaning against a wall or another sturdy surface, utilizing the force of gravity or one’s own body with the pressure of the ground of the wall to dig into impinged or tight areas. Of course, those with no experience using massage balls may want to consult a physical therapy professional before experimenting on their own, as it’s possible to dig too deeply and end up in discomfort. We took a look at some of the best massage balls and gave our selections.
Editors’ Choice:
Kieba Massage Lacrosse Balls
Pros:
- Kieba sells their massage balls in packs of two in a variety of colors. If your home happens to be littered with sporting equipment, it may be wise to pick out a unique color for your massage ball so it doesn’t accidentally end up on a playing field.
- Solid rubber construction means these massage balls are built to last.
- Small size of Kieba’s massage balls makes them suitable for a variety of body parts.
- Very competitively priced.
Cons:
- Anyone not used to massage ball therapy may find the hard rubber a bit uncomfortable at first, and may be better off with a hard foam option.
Kieba Massage Lacrosse Balls are very versatile, straightforward tools intended to provide muscular relief. These solid rubber balls can be used on a variety of body parts, all the way from the soles of the feet to the crook of the neck.
Best Foam Ball:
Trigger Point Performance Foam Massage Ball
Pros:
- At 5” in diameter, Trigger Point Performance’s largest foam massage ball is one of the bigger options on the market, and may be a great option for anyone looking for more generalized relief rather than the specific relief a smaller ball offers.
- Foam material is designed to be sturdy, but offers a bit more give than hard rubber balls, which may make it a better option for those new to myofascial self relief.
- At just 5.8oz, even the bigger massage ball is still travel friendly.
- Unique tri-color design will make it hard to misplace and easy to stand out!
Cons:
- Cost-wise, this ball is a bit pricier than some of the alternatives out there.
- Those who know their way around myofascial relief may be better off with a smaller, firmer ball.
Those looking for a slightly larger massage ball may want to check out the largest offering from Trigger Point Performance. Measuring 5” in diameter, this brightly colored foam ball is designed to offer relief in the biggest muscle areas.
Unique Design:
Champion Sports Official Lacrosse Balls
Pros:
- The Champion Sports peanut shaped massage ball is a uniquely shaped massage ball made by effectively joining two lacrosse balls together.
- Made from durable rubber, this massage ball may be a great way to get myofascial relief, particularly in the feet, shoulders, neck, and back.
- Comes with a carrying bag for portability.
- Very competitively priced.
Cons:
- The peanut shaped design may limit the manner in which this massage ball is used.
By effectively joining two lacrosse balls together, Champion Sports makes a peanut-shaped massage ball. This unique design is intended to provide additional relief by allowing for pressure to be evenly distributed to multiple muscles at the same time.
Also Consider:
Physix Gear Massage Balls
Pros:
- Pyysix Gear produces small rubber massage balls with little “spikes” that are intended to provide additional surface level relief and promote blood circulation during self-massage.
- Available in a wide variety of colors, so you won’t mix up your sporting equipment with your massage equipment.
- Built to withstand up to 300 pounds of pressure.
- Portable and competitively priced.
Cons:
- Some find the spikes that emanate from the ball to be a bit uncomfortable, particularly when placed anywhere but beneath the foot.
Though they look a bit like small hedgehogs, these small spiky massage balls mean no harm! The small rubber “spikes” that surround these unique little balls are designed to offer more blood circulation and relief in the self-massage game.
Methodology
Massage balls offer a quick and effective way to get myofascial relief. Though it’s a very simple tool, when used correctly, a massage ball can offer almost instantaneous relief from muscular tension. However, not all balls are created equally. Check out a few key features when shopping around.
Size of Ball
Smaller massage balls are typically a bit more effective at getting into very specific areas, while larger balls may be great for anyone looking for relief in bigger muscle groups. Those who are more experienced and know exactly which points they intend to hit with a ball may be better off with a smaller massage ball.
Material
Massage balls are commonly made from either rubber or foam, with some manufacturers using PVC as well. Hard rubber balls are typically the most firm, while foam balls tend to offer a bit more give. Those looking to get the most intense use of their massage balls may be better off with a firmer option.
Design
The most straightforward massage balls are, well, round. However, some massage balls offer a unique spin on this design, sometimes including small spikes to provide additional relief or unique shapes to attack multiple muscles at the same time.
Style
Ultimately, the color of your massage ball is not going to dictate how much relief you feel while using it. However, if your home has a ton of sporting equipment, it may be beneficial to seek out a uniquely colored massage ball so that you’re not accidentally taking a massage tool to a lacrosse game.
Cost
Generally speaking, these simple tools should not break the bank. While a difference in higher quality material may mean more durability, these balls should not put a big dent in the ol’ bank account.
FAQs
Are massage balls safe to use?
Generally, yes; massage balls are safe to use. However, anyone who is not experienced with them may want to seek out advice or techniques from those who are more experienced to avoid injury.
Can injuries result from using a massage ball?
Yes. Injuries can result from using a massage ball incorrectly or over using a massage ball. If you’re not sure you’re using it properly, consult a professional.
Why are some massage balls covered in nodules?
Some massage balls are covered in nodules or spikes to provide additional relief on the surface of the skin. These are most commonly used by those looking to get relief on the bottom of their feet.
BarBend Tips
- Athletes who are new to the world of trigger point therapy or myofascial relief may want to confer with a professional massage therapist before jumping onto a ball. While the techniques are pretty easy to pick up, you’ll want to make sure you’re using these balls effectively.
- Drink plenty of water before and after using massage balls. It could cut down on the soreness you may experience!
Massage balls are a simple tool that can offer immense relief. Check with a professional or an experienced self-masseuse, learn the techniques, and breathe deeply while you dig into knots you didn’t know you had.