It’s estimated that over 80% of the adult population suffers from recurring pains of one type or another. Could that be why Wahl has been manufacturing and selling massage products for nearly 100 years now? Probably; and customers are grateful they have.  If you’ve got pain, there’s probably a unit just right for you.

We recently had the chance to test out three of their products, each with its own unique attributes and benefits.

Hot-Cold Massager  (Model 4295-400)

The Hot-Cold Massager could be the one-size-fits-all product if there was such a thing. Big enough to do the job, yet small enough to be portable, the Hot-Cold unit comes with its own carrying case and will easily slip into your suitcase, gym bag or messenger bag. The entire kit with all the heads weighs just a fraction of an ounce over two pounds.

The unit comes with seven attachments to cover different needs from intense stimulation to general relaxation. Two special heads allow for a heated massage with two heat settings, or an iced massage.

The gel pack for the iced massage needs to be pre-chilled in your freezer, overnight is perfect, but 1-2 hours can do if you forget.  The cold gel pack is intended to reduce swelling and pain from inflammation. You’d most likely use this right after a fresh injury or sprain, strain or bruise.

The heated pad conversely would be best for chronic or recurring pain.  Old injuries, arthritis, fibromyalgia could all benefit from the heat pad.  Some people will apply heat massage before exercising, to warm up the muscles.

The other five heads can attack a number of ailments from deep muscle aches to general relaxation.  The Triad (a three pronged, gently curved attachment) was my favorite for overall general relaxation.

Look for the Hot-Cold Massager at Walgreens, Walmart, Amazon or Drugstore.com.

Deep Tissue Massage (Model 4290-300)

When it comes to relieving pain and fatigue, the Deep Tissue percussion massager is up for the task.  The biggest of the trio we tried, its long handle is ideal for those with limited range of motion.  With two rotator cuff injuries, I appreciate anything that can help me reach the small of my back.

The Deep Tissue model comes with four interchangeable heads, again for targeting specific areas or for overall relaxation.  The variable intensity settings are easily controlled by a rotating wheel in the center of the handle and it’s easy to set just the right amount.

With the percussion massager, it took a couple minutes to find the right level of intensity, combined with the right amount of pressure applied to the muscle, but when you figure it out, the Deep Tissue works like a dream.

Look for the Deep Tissue Massager at Walgreens, Walmart, Amazon or Drugstore.com.

 

 

Pulsing Massage Patch (Model 4095)

People with degenerative disk disorder or lower back pain will likely be familiar with TENS treatments.  The theory is that electrical impulses stimulate the body’s capability to repair itself and the Pulsing Patch simulates this stimulation.  Four sensors across the unit can fire in succession, alternately and a host of other patterns – all user selectable.

Reuseable gel adhesive pads provide adhesion to the body and since it’s battery powered, you can attach the unit and continue to move around doing your daily activities.  Two cautions however; the unit does make a noticeable buzzing sound and people with hairy backs may need to shave the areas where they want to apply the unit.

The gel pads can be rinsed with plain water if they start to soil or you can purchase replacement pads.  The massager is extremely light in weight and comes in a very handy flat, hard plastic, carrying case.

For a list of retailer that may carry the Pulsing Patch, click here.

These are just three of Wahl’s many massage products.  Check their webpage to determine which massage is right for you.