The Best Foot and Calf Massager For Lower Leg Massage [Guide]

1. Human Touch “Reflex-4” Foot and Calf Shiatsu Massager

If you want to spend money on a calf and foot massager, you won’t go far wrong with the Human Touch “Reflex-4” which comes with its own patented Figure-8 technology (as it sounds, the massage works in a figure of eight). This is priced at $200 (depending on retailer) and is entirely portable, with an easy-to-use carry handle.

You slip your feet and calves into the massaging areas and allow the product to massage. The entire area of the model is surrounded by state-of-the-art massage technology and you’ll benefit from a highly effective treatment that is similar to that of a well-trained masseuse.

Each foot is treated to a stimulating under-foot reflexology massage using powerful rollers that alleviate pain and discomfort in the soles and heels. This type of massage is especially effective for sufferers of plantar fasciitis. The calf massager even comes with floor protectors, so you can use it safely on any material and with its smart, ergonomic styling; it works really well with the body’s contours.

Sleek and modern, you can transport this to any room of your home or even take it with you to the office.

2. UComfy Leg, Foot, Calf, and Ankle Massager Squeeze And Vibration

This foot and leg massager has a kneading and vibrating massage. It produces the effect of a strong compression that is perfect for a deep tissue massage. The massage for the calves are via large side plates that firmly press them in and out on the sides, and rollers to massage the back of the calves up and down. The soles and sides of the feet are massaged through rollers and vibrations.

You can have a variety of options in speed level if you use this leg massage machine. It has 3 vibrations with 3 compressions in different speed settings to suit your specific needs. However, this specific type of foot and calf massager doesn’t come with heat.

If you’re worried about falling asleep while using a leg massage machine, this one automatically shuts off after 15 minutes of its cycle. You can start another 15-minute cycle immediately; however, the machine’s small power supply box needs to cool off for 45 minutes to avoid malfunctions.

The manufacturing of this foot and leg massager is quite heavy because it’s built solidly. However, it has sturdy handles on both sides for easy transportation. It also comes with removable inserts that’s easy to wash and change. It is designed for a standard 110V only. For comfortable use, this leg massager machine is applicable to up to 12” foot and 13” calf size.

3. Human Touch iJOY Foot and Calf Massager

This calf massager machine creates a shiatsu massage and foot reflexology perfect to soothe aching leg and foot muscles. The calves are massaged with patented CirQlation Technology which creates air compressions in a figure eight motion, improving blood circulation. It is also built with underfoot rollers that provide strong reflexology for the soles of the feet. 

Using this leg massage machine gives you 5 options of manual speed for the shiatsu massage: Gentle; Relaxing; Moderate; Vigorous; Intense. Whether you need a soothing massage or an intense muscle reliever, the variety of speed levels of this shiatsu foot and calf massager can perfectly complement your specific needs. However, you can opt for the auto massage program.

This specific type of leg massager machine doesn’t come with heat and auto shut-off features. You just manually plug the machine in the power source, then you’re good to go.

Read more: Human Touch IJoy Foot And Calf Massager Review

Make sure you don’t fall asleep while using it! Overusing this foot and calf massager machine will not be good to your muscles, and is dangerous as it’s connected directly to a power source.

The manufacturing of this foot and calf massager is light compared to other leg massagers, yet durable. It is built with easy-carry handles for easier transport. For comfortable use, this leg massager machine is applicable to up to 9” foot and 5” calf size.

4. VITALZEN Plus Massager for Feet, Legs, Knees, and Thighs

This foot and calf massager machine has a compression massage system that is comprised of 30 mini-airbags. It has a combination of kneading and active rollers for vibration which has 3 modes of continuous, short pauses, and long pauses, as well as 3 modes of massages for the lower body, upper body, or complete. It also provides foot reflexology that targets specific pressure points on the soles of the feet. The controls for the calf and foot are separate.

As with typical foot and leg massager machines, you have 3 options for the speed of the massage (low, medium, and high). What’s more, this particular leg massager machine has a heat feature! You can experience thermal massage on your thighs and ankles. The heat is non-adjustable but complements the whole massage experience, and is made possible by the machine’s carbon fiber. Also, it automatically shuts off after 15 minutes of its cycle.

The manufacturing of this foot and leg massager is heavy at 19kg yet very durable. To compensate for its heaviness, it is built with rear wheels and is foldable for easier transport. With its folding design, this leg massager machine can change its angle up to 110 degrees to suit every users needs, adjusting to their comfortability and the angles of the massage. It is compatible with a standard 110V. Though it’s heavy, this leg massager machine is silent at 45 decibels only. The inner fabric of the machine is both removable and washable. For comfortable use, this foot and leg massager machine is applicable to up to 12.5” foot size.

5. Human Touch Sol Shiatsu Foot and Calf Massager

This calf massager machine creates a shiatsu massage and foot reflexology perfect to soothe aching leg and foot muscles. The calves are massaged with patented CirQlation Technology which creates air compressions in a figure eight motion, improving blood circulation. It is also built with underfoot rollers that provide strong reflexology for the soles of the feet.

Using this leg massage machine gives you 5 options of manual speed for the shiatsu massage: Gentle; Relaxing; Moderate; Vigorous; Intense. It also has 2 intensity settings to adjust the pressure of the massage depending on your needs, and 3 auto-massage programs.

If you’re looking for a foot and calf massager machine with a heat feature, the Human Touch Sol Shiatsu Foot and Calf Massager is the perfect choice for you! It has a patented WarmAir Technology to produce thermal massage on the feet and calves. The heat is slightly warm and non-adjustable, but complements the whole massage experience. Additionally, it automatically shuts off after 15 minutes of its cycle. However, you can start another 15-minute cycle immediately.

The manufacturing of this foot and leg massager is quite heavy at 11kg yet very durable. It is built with an adjustable tilt base for a more comfortable use. It is compatible with a standard 110V. The inner fabric of the machine is both removable and washable. For comfortable use, this leg massager machine is applicable to up to 14” foot and 5” calf size.

6. Naipo Foot and Calf Massager Foldable Machine

This type of foot and calf massager machine has all three: air compression, rollers, and vibration. The combination of these three functions create a shiatsu-style massage that is perfect for deep-tissue relief for the entire feet and calves.

As this leg massager is foldable, it acts as a foot massager or a foot and calf massager, with separate control panels for each. When folded, it functions as a foot massager only that has 3 levels of air compression, 3 levels of vibration for the heels (blue = low / purple = medium / pink = high), and 2 modes of massage (kneading and rolling or air compression). When unfolded, it functions both as a foot and calf massager, with separate controls for the foot massage and calf massage.

Another good thing about this product is its adjustable heat system! In using this leg massager machine, you can experience a thermal massage with a maximum of 112F heat level. The thermal massage takes 3 minutes to warm. Additionally, this shiatsu foot and calf massager automatically shuts off after 15 minutes of its cycle. However, you can start another 15-minute cycle immediately.

The product is built extremely durable with a foldable, ergonomic design. It is electrically powered that is compatible between 110V to 240V power source. The inner fabric of the machine is both removable and washable. For comfortable use, this leg massager machine is applicable to up to 14” foot.

7. Shiatsu Kneading, Rolling & Heating Foot & Calf Massager By HM Relax

The HM Relax Shiatsu Foot and Calf Massager retails at $189 (depending on where you buy it from) and features two areas for each leg and foot. With multiple functions, you can enjoy Shiatsu massage, kneading massage, rolling massage or vibration massage and it comes complete with a relaxing and rehabilitating heating function.

Expect a 360-degree experience so every pressure point is reached. Ergonomic design means this massager delivers the ultimate in comfort and it targets the sensitive areas of the calf and soles of the feet, so it’s excellent for plantar fasciitis sufferers.

8. Giantex Shiatsu Kneading Rolling Vibration Heating Foot Calf Leg Massager

At $160 (depending on retailer) is the Giants Shiatsu Foot, Calf and Leg Massager which features Shiatsu massage using kneading and rolling technology along with heat and vibration. Choose to massage your feet, your calves or both together, this product is designed to replicate message that you would receive at a trained masseuse and targets the sensitive areas to alleviate pain, soreness, and discomfort.

It comes with three different custom modes of foot massage and three different intensities of massage for the calf area. You can also select from three different heating levels, to find the one you are most comfortable with. The massage function is built with eight massage discs to target the feet and four for the calves, giving a 360 degree all-over highly effective massage so you feel completely refreshed.

9. ZENY Shiatsu Kneading Rolling Foot Leg Calf Massager Massage Machine

At a slightly lower price point of $120 (depending on retailer) is the Zeny Shiatsu Kneading Rolling Foot Leg and Calf Massager Machine. This massager is ergonomically designed for comfort and built to deliver similar style massage as you would experience at your masseuse. It uses reflexology therapy including shiatsu, kneading and rolling.

You can choose to massage your feet or your calves, or if you prefer, massage both of them together. For your foot, there are pressure nodes that are stimulated by this machine, designed to touch the reflex points and help with relaxation.

There are three custom modes of foot massage and three intensities of calf massage with a strong, kneading action and the entire unit are controlled using a simple touch panel at the side of the unit. With a detachable fabric foot cover, you can easily machine wash the outer.

Note, it is not suitable if your calves are over 4” each. Use the Zeny for an invigorating foot, ankle and calf massage to improve blood circulation and even stimulate the metabolism.

10. FIT KING Leg Massager for Circulation

This is a foot and leg massager is actually an air compression wrap that provides compression massage via its 2×2 airbags. It creates a kneading and stroking sensation. This leg massager wrap has 10 different massage techniques in 2 different modes: 1) Sequence Mode which massages your feet first, followed by the legs; and 2) Whole Mode which massages the feet and the legs simultaneously, but provides a more powerful, deep-tissue massage than the former.

Typical of leg massagers, this air compression wrap has 3 levels of intensity (low, mid, high) that is adjustable via its handheld controller. It doesn’t come with a heat feature, but it automatically shuts off after 20 minutes of its cycle.

They used high grade products in manufacturing this foot and leg air compression wrap. It also comes with a mesh bag for protection during transport. It is electrically powered that is compatible between 110V to 240V power source. It is designed for larger calf size: it can accommodate up to 22” without extensions or a maximum of 28.5” with extensions (via velcro, and it comes free when you buy the product). For the feet, it can accommodate up to 10.5”.

There are lots of methods to treat swollen feet and calves including, but not limited to, physical therapy, biweekly spa appointments, or the RICE Method (rest, ice, compression, elevation. One thing that can help you soothe muscle pain daily is having a foot and calf massager machine at home. Certain health issues can cause swollen feet and calves, most likely due to fluid retention, such as in pregnancy, alcohol intake, and side effects of medication. Other causes may be plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, arthritis, and varicose veins, among others. Using a calf massager benefits runners, football players and other athletes who use their calf muscles intensively, but also elderly and people who stand for long periods of time daily. 

There’s a variety of foot and calf massager machines available in the market today. Below, we will list down some of the main types of foot and calf massagers and discuss their features.

Full Leg Massagers

The most expensive (yet the best value for money) kind of foot and calf massager machine is the full leg massager. This type of leg massager covers the feet, legs, knees, and thighs! Usually, it’s built with rollers, air compression, and vibration. With the combination of those three, the full leg massager delivers the most powerful massage with several options of intensity. Full leg massagers is perfect for soothing massages as well as deep-tissue muscle recovery. It is extremely durable and long-lasting.

Read More: Why Foot Massage Is a Step In The Direction Of Great Health

Foot and Calf Massage Machines

The next best leg massager is the foot and calf massage machine. This type of foot and calf massager is almost similar to a full leg massager; however, it doesn’t cover the massage for the knees and thighs. Usually, a foot and calf massager can only go as high as a foot below the knee. But some machines deliver the same type of deep-tissue massage! Some machines have a combination of rollers, air compression, and vibration; although, most machines miss one of these three. Nonetheless, it still provides a great massage experience! It is also extremely durable and is usually built with easy-carry handles or rear wheels for easier transportation.

Air Compression Foot Massager Wraps

Most air compression massager wraps focuses on the blood circulation of the calves. It works via built-in airbags that compresses and decompresses in different levels of intensity to soothe extreme muscle pain. But you can find some air compression massager wraps that have a boot-like structure to massage the feet via air compressions alone.

What’s good about a massager wrap is that it can accommodate bigger-sized calves because of its adjustable velcro material. Some of the air compression foot massager wraps are electrically-powered only while some are more portable because they’re rechargeable. This type of leg massager is more portable as it’s a wrap, not a machine. It usually comes with a mesh bag for protection.

With Heat

Not all foot and calf massager machines have heat features, but purchasing a leg massager with an optional heat function will do wonders for your whole massage experience! Having a thermal massage will aid in soothing muscle aches and in easing muscle tension. It also helps in better blood circulation, on top of the massage.

With Foldable Design

One of the best features of foot and leg massager with a foldable design is its angle-adjustability. A tilted leg massager makes for a more comfortable use, especially as an extension to your favorite couch. A foldable foot and leg massager machine gives the best foot reflexology massage as it targets all the specific pressure points of the feet, especially when folded. When unfolded, this type of leg massager usually has two options: 1) to massage the feet first, then the calves; or 2) simultaneously massage both the feet and calves. Having this option adds to the excitement in using your foot and calf massager machine!

Shiatsu Foot and Calf Massagers

Having a foot and calf massager machine that specifically provides a shiatsu massage (especially in addition to air compression or vibrations) makes for the best massage experience. Having a shiatsu foot and calf massager simulates having a massage at the spa with your favorite masseuse, only cheaper! A shiatsu massage is a type of Japanese massage that focuses on applying finger pressure to specific points in the body in a rhythmic sequence. This type of massage will relieve muscle pain and overall feelings of discomfort and stress.

Benefits of Using a Foot and Calf Massager

Your don’t have to have an active lifestyle or be a professional athlete to get yourself a foot and calf massager machine. Using one daily will do wonders for your overall well-being! Read further to know the benefits of using a foot and calf massager.

Read more: Foot Reflexology Massage Top 5 Benefits (And Why You Need To Try It)

For Circulation

Particularly for people with a sedentary lifestyle (which means those who are not active, much less who do not walk enough daily), the muscles on the lower extremities gets accustomed to not being used. Hence, blood circulation is impaired. Using a foot and calf massager at least 10 to 20 minutes before you go to bed will improve your blood circulation.

Improving the blood flow in your lower extremities will improve your overall health condition! A good blood circulation means a healthier heart, better appearance for those with varicose veins, and prevents long-lasting problems on the feet such as plantar fasciitis. 

For Neuropathy from Diabetes

Neuropathy damages the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. It’s a symptom of other body complications, commonly present in people with diabetes. When a diabetic person experiences neuropathy, he loses some sensation in his feet that may lead to other injuries.

It is recommended for people with diabetic neuropathy to use foot massagers that will specifically target acupressure points on the soles of the feet. With constant and continuous use of a foot and leg massager, this will bring back sensation on the feet.

Relaxation

Our feet has over 7,000 nerve endings that are connected to different parts of the body. Stimulating the foot nerve endings daily with the use of a foot and calf massager will lead to reduced stress and anxiety, improved concentration, and better sleep.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is common for flat-footed people. They experience pain on the heel and bottom of the feet due to the inflammation of the plantar fascia (the connective tissue that supports the arch of the feet).

With the use of a foot massager, you can lessen the chronic pain with constant deep tissue massage and strong application of pressure on the arch of the feet.

Tired Feet

Doing sports regularly, standing for long hours or just walking in our day-to-day activities may cause stress to our calves and feet. Compressions, kneading, and vibrations brought about by your leg massager machine will certainly soothe your aching calf muscles. Stimulating the calf muscles and lower extremities will bring an overall sense of comfort and satisfaction.

How long should you use a foot and calf massager?

You can safely use your foot and calf massager once a day for a minimum of 10 minutes. However, the maximum effects of the leg massager can be experienced if you use it for a maximum of 30 minutes daily. Good thing most leg massager machines have an auto shut-off feature of 15 minutes! You can opt to finish just one 15-minute cycle, or start another one.

Some opt to use their foot and calf massagers more than once a day. With this, make sure that your leg massager machine is durable enough to endure multiple uses a day. Also, as a general rule of thumb: if you experience sharp muscle pain, stop using the machine; your muscles might be overstimulated already. Should you experience this, you can lessen the usage of your leg massager to thrice a week.

Using a Foot and Calf Massager in Pregnancy

Carrying another human in your body is literally a heavy job. As such, it is common for pregnant women to experience swollen feet. Foot rubs are their best friend, but getting their feet massaged daily by a foot and calf massager has its perks. 

Consistent use of a foot and calf massager will reduce chronic pain and swelling that is caused by water retention. As a result, doing physical activity will be a lot easier. Just remember to choose the appropriate leg massager machine for you – one that provides good foot and ankle reflexology, as well as one that has a gentler massage function.