5 best muscle roller for back

A muscle roller for the back, often referred to as a foam roller or back roller, is a fitness and recovery tool designed to help relieve muscle tension, improve flexibility, and enhance overall muscle recovery. These rollers are commonly used in exercise, fitness, and sports contexts. Here's what you should know about them:

  1. Design: Muscle rollers for the back are typically cylindrical in shape and made of foam or other dense materials like PVC or EVA foam. They come in various lengths and diameters to accommodate different body sizes and preferences.

  2. Purpose: The primary purpose of a muscle roller is to perform self-myofascial release (SMR) or self-massage. By rolling various muscle groups over the roller's surface, individuals can apply pressure to tight or knotted muscles, helping to release tension and improve blood flow.

  3. Benefits:

    • Muscle Recovery: Foam rolling can aid in muscle recovery after exercise by reducing muscle soreness and promoting better circulation.
    • Flexibility: Regular use of a foam roller can increase flexibility by breaking up adhesions and knots in the muscles and fascia.
    • Pain Relief: Foam rolling can provide relief from muscle pain and discomfort, especially in the back, shoulders, and legs.
    • Improved Range of Motion: By releasing tight muscles, foam rolling can enhance joint mobility and range of motion, making it a valuable tool for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
  4. Techniques: To use a muscle roller effectively for the back, one typically places the roller on the ground and positions themselves on top of it. By gently rolling back and forth over the roller while applying body weight, individuals can target specific areas of the back and surrounding muscles. Different techniques, such as rolling slowly or pausing on trigger points, can be used to address specific issues.

  5. Precautions: While foam rolling can be highly beneficial, it's essential to use proper techniques and avoid excessive pressure, which can lead to discomfort or injury. Individuals with certain medical conditions or injuries should consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating foam rolling into their routine.

  6. Variations: There are different types of muscle rollers available, including smooth foam rollers, textured rollers (with ridges or knobs), and vibrating rollers that provide additional massage-like benefits.

  7. Incorporating into Fitness Routine: Muscle rollers are commonly used as part of a warm-up or cooldown routine before or after exercise. Many fitness enthusiasts and athletes incorporate foam rolling into their stretching and mobility exercises.

In summary, a muscle roller for the back, such as a foam roller, is a versatile tool used to enhance muscle recovery, flexibility, and overall physical well-being. When used correctly and regularly, it can be a valuable addition to your fitness and self-care routine.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best muscle roller for back on the market
  

The Original Body Roller - High Density Foam Roller Massager for Deep Tissue Massage of The Back and Leg Muscles - Self Myofascial Release of Painful Trigger Point Muscle Adhesions

Venture Products, LLC

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Extra firm, smooth black cheap cylinder rollers are too hard , and only compress muscle tissue . 

Our patented massaging texture spreads and pinches muscle tissue to soothe knots , just like an expensive massage from a chiropractic or sports medicine office .

Release knots and painful adhesions in your quad it band calves sciatica feet legs foot knee strained hamstring core scar tissue forearm shoulder chest and more . 

Perform balance exercises by standing on the 5 inch round diameter , or allow the spikey texture to massage the arches of your feet for plantar fasciitis .

Great as an anticellulite tool for the back of your legs or buttocks , but also great to treat the muscles that lead to lower back pain , who doesn't love the original body roller?

Makes the perfect gift for... everyone, because who doesn't LOVE a massage?





  • 3D textured rollers measure 13 x 5.5 inches with triple massage zones to replicate the fingers , thumbs , and palms of the human hand.
  • Roll before and after your work out at the gym , Pilates , or yoga to condition and stretch muscle tissue , and remove painful trigger points . Dual grid design has finger zone with ridges , and spiked bumps on the opposite side .
  • Great for runners , after a long workout , or as part of your stretching routine . Heavy Duty EPP construction tough enough for athletes , and still comfortable enough for a beginner .
  • Choose from lightweight and portable full size model or our mini travel model to get physical therapy grade massages , deep stretches , and acupressure relief all in the privacy of your own home .
  • Speed up recovery , treat muscle pain , increase performance , flexibility , and mobility . One of the best fitness tools to help your body recover , rolling before and after exercise is critical for beginners and pros alike .

User questions & answers

Question: does it help you with working out quad pain (upper front of legs
Answer: It’s pretty rigid I use it for lower back pain
Question: How do I order the travel size
Answer: Didn’t know there was a travel size… This is only about 10 inches long 12 tops.
Question: I need a roller for my calf muscles before/after running. Is this good for that
Answer: Waaaaay too soft, I recommend Pro-Tec Athletics contoured roller ot maybe this )https://www.amazon.com/TriggerPoint-Multi-Density-Roller-Online-Instructional/dp/B01CG8HD4Y/ref=pd_sbs_200_1/143-3383310-9830141?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01CG8HD4Y&pd_rd_r=8e7f6a6a-9893-11e9-9ae5-454ccedf7fa2&pd_rd_w=8EFLv&pd_rd_wg=6ftAE&pf_rd_p=588939de-d3f8-42f1-a3d8-d556eae5797d&pf_rd_r=JC57F8VNWPB7CM0R6H1X&refRID=JC57F8VNWPB7CM0R6H1X), but I prefer the knobby ones.
Question: What material is it made of
Answer: I’m not sure. It looks and feels like foam. However, it is a very dense foam with very little give. I found it too hard but my wife likes it.

321 STRONG Foam Roller - Medium Density Deep Tissue Massager for Muscle Massage and Myofascial Trigger Point Release, with 4K eBook

321 STRONG

Based on 17 reviews Check latest price
  • 12.75 inches x 5.25 inch diameter , lightweight yet rugged solid core massage roller with triple grid 3D massage zones mimics the finger , palm , and thumb of a therapist's hands . Travel friendly at just 1 lb .
  • Medium density muscle roller is comfortable to use - making it easy for beginners , but still effective at penetrating the soft tissue layer of tired muscles . Soft enough to use while in pain from lower back injury , sciatica or plantar fasciitis .
  • One of the best recovery tools to treat muscle pain , increase performance and flexibility. Rolling before and after exercise sis part of a great stretching routine . Increases blood flow to massage site , flushing away stored lactic acid .
  • Stretch overworked and strained muscles of the leg , arms , and feet by rolling during your warm up and cool downs . Provides instant benefit to the hamstring , IT band , glutes , and calves by delivering superior massages at home or in the gym .
  • Loved by runners , exercise athletes , yoga and pilates students , swimmers , physical or sports therapy patients , and aid those just doing a normal fitness workout . Great for the arch of the foot , and any part of the superior body but the spine or neck .
  • Protected by US Patents 9,345,921 and 9,656,112
  • eBook can be downloaded for free via the manufacture’s website, also arrives as an email attachment.

User questions & answers

Question: Do you have a larger size? im 6-2 - 230 pounds, so lot of area to cover
Answer:
Question: Is this suitable for women
Answer:
Question: Is there a weight limit
Answer:
Question: Can you fit a standard sized wine bottle inside of it? Asking for a friend
Answer:

Product features

Perfect addition to any workout routine

Your 321 STRONG foam roller heals damaged soft tissue, increasing flexibility and range of motion, while reducing pain and soreness. Its compact size allows you to target specific muscle groups and pain points. Increase blood flow and circulation to your muscles and soft tissue before and after workouts. Enjoy therapeutic benefits like decreased recovery time from injuries and increased mobility. See the same benefits as a deep tissue massage - smoothing knots, removing adhesions and trigger points. Beginners and athletes alike see the same relief from sore muscles, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, back pain, shin splints, and reduction in scar tissue.

Loaded with Features

Patented technology, sturdy construction, and high quality materials come together to deliver a massage roller with exceptional value. Allow the 3 unique massage zones to deliver a custom deep tissue massage to your problem areas. Designed specifically to address muscle soreness and joint stiffness. The 3 massage zones apply pressure in varying degrees of density, encouraging muscles to release stored lactic acid, kinks, and knots. Unlock the secret of sports therapists, in the privacy of your own home. Our 500 lb rating supports all body types while maintaining consistent resistance, allowing you to use your own body weight to control the massage intensity. Your 321 STRONG foam roller is easy to clean, and even easier to take with you on the go.

Thumb Zone

The most intense massage zone, the small projections replicate the finger tips and thumbs of a massage therapist.

Finger Zone

Designed for tissue flushing, the elongated projections of the second zone mimic human fingers.

Palm Zone

The lightest of the 3 massage zones, the palm zone offers a gentler massage, and replicates the therapist's palms.

Durable and Convenient

100% EVA foam massage zones, and solid foam core can’t crack like hollow core rollers can.

These benefits are for more than just athletes

• Decreased muscle and joint pain

• Relaxes and restores fascia

• Better flexibility, joint mobility, and range of motion

• Great for use before and after workouts

• Reduce muscle pain and injury recovery time with regular use

• Prevent injuries and pulled muscles

• Unlike smooth rollers, penetrates deep into muscle tissue for maximum benefit

• Self massage for de-stressing and relaxing after a long day

Amazon Basics High-Density Exercise, Massage, Muscle Recovery, Round Foam Roller, 12", 18", 24", 36"

Amazon Basics

Based on 52 reviews Check latest price
  • High-density foam roller with molded edges
  • Ideal for balance, strengthening, flexibility, and rehab exercises
  • Made in the USA from molded polypropylene to maintain firmness
  • Lightweight, easy to clean and transport
  • Measures approximately 18 x 6 x 6 inches (LxWxH)
  • An Amazon Brand

User questions & answers

Question: Does this help minimize the appearance of cellulite
Answer: No, the only thing that helps with that is weight loss and exercise. You cannot remove cellulite from any single location, it only responds to a general reduction in fat and increased muscle tone. Anyone who tells you otherwise is either ignorant or purposely misleading you. MD.
Question: Is there a warranty? If so, for how many years is it
Answer: No warranty, but it is very sturdy. Unless you are beating people over the head with it or body slamming it, it should last you a LONG time.
Question: Is this good for the lower back
Answer: Do not foam roll your lower back. You can actually injure yourself badly from doing this. You should only foam roll as far down as your rib cage as it offers support. Majority of physical therapist will tell you not to foam roll your lower back. Anyone that says otherwise is a delusional internet therapist that will be hurting others.
Question: Is this firm or extra firm
Answer: I would call it extra-firm, as it has very little give. It's more like a dense, hardened styrofoam than the rubbery foam you might be accustomed to in athletic/physical therapy supplies.

Product features

Multi-Purpose Equipment

The high-density foam roller works with natural body weight for muscle rehab and exercise. Multiple colors and sizes available for your needs.

Restorative Benefits

Use the roller to relive sore muscles, as well as balance, strengthening, flexibility, and rehab exercises. It can be repositioned easily as needed.

Firm, Durable Strength

Made from high-density polyethylene foam with molded edges, the foam roller maintains firmness while providing support for all body types.

Portable & Easy to Clean

The foam roller cleans easily and is light weight for convenient transport from home to gym or physical therapy or yoga studio and back again.

321 STRONG 5 in 1 Foam Roller Set Includes Hollow Core Massage Roller with End Caps, Muscle Roller Stick, Stretching Strap, Double Lacrosse Peanut, Spikey Plantar Fasciitis Ball, All in Giftable Box

321 STRONG

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price
  • The perfect gift for yourself , or a loved one that's into exercise and working out , this kit has it all -> Our classic triple zone massage roller with end caps for storage , great for deep tissue massage and stretching legs and lower back .
  • There's our premium massage stick for those hard-to-roll areas , like the quad , shin , and inner thigh . Control the intensity of the massage by pressing harder or softer with the handles . Flush lactic acid from muscle tissue after your workout .
  • After the deep tissue massager , the most important thing for your body is stretches . Our stretch strap is amazing for your hamstring and quads . Just wrap one end around your foot , and control the intensity by grabbing different handles .
  • Finally, 2 types of massage balls , both great tools for trigger point and myofascial release . Our double lacrosse ball is best for rolling the forearm , neck , and shoulders - our spike ball is great for the arches of your feet for plantar fasciitis .
  • All of this is backed by our lifetime manufacturer's warranty and 100% Satisfaction Guarantee , To purchase these items separately would cost over $75, making this a great value or a great gift (if you know anyone that likes massages...)        ; )
  • Protected by 5 US Patents : 9,345,921 ; 9,539,167 ; 9,656,112 ; 10,278,890 ; 10,695,260
  • eBook can be downloaded for free via the manufacture’s website, also arrives as an email attachment.

User questions & answers

Question: Is the roller hard as plastic or does it have some cushioning to it? I purchased a roller and it is sooo hard, you have to put a pillow on it to use
Answer: I've had mine for about a year and no issue with the bulbs. You can order replacements via the Northern Light Technologies website. I did note one reviewer on the manufacturer's site who said they have had this lamp for 5 years now and it finally needs a replacement bulb (I believe there are two bulbs in there). Also--FYI, I had my doctor fill out a "medical necessity" form so I could be reimbursed through my HSA/FSA. I don't know if my insurance company would have paid for it, wasn't willing to go through that hassle, but if your doctor orders light therapy it does qualify as a reimbursable expense! PS it's a very attractive lamp and very useful for anything that needs a LOT of illumination, not just the winter blues!!!
Question: How long is thîs roller
Answer: Hi, the Flamingo Floor Lamp works with a mechanical on/off switch. This means it can be plugged into a timer (you would need to purchase separately). However it will NOT work with any sort of dimmer as it uses fluorescents which do not dim. Hope this helps.
Question: Does the massage stick fit inside the foam roller
Answer: Hello, I found this helpful posted by the manufacturer Replacement bulbs for the Northern Light Technology Flamingo Floor Lamp: Manufacturer Part Number OSRAM / SYLVANIA FT24DL-835 PHILIPS PL-L24W/835/4P Please take note. This lamp produces high-quality light for ALL types of uses/applications. I am a photographer, therefore light standards and form are indeed very important to me.
Question: Why is the green set listed as blue
Answer: Yes, this lamp would be good for any room where you need a lot of bright light. However, if you continue to use the lamp for a long time very late at night it could make it hard to get to sleep.

Product features

Perfect addition to any workout routine

Your 321 STRONG foam roller heals damaged soft tissue, increasing flexibility and range of motion, while reducing pain and soreness. Its compact size allows you to target specific muscle groups and pain points. Increase blood flow and circulation to your muscles and soft tissue before and after workouts. Enjoy therapeutic benefits like decreased recovery time from injuries and increased mobility. See the same benefits as a deep tissue massage - smoothing knots, removing adhesions and trigger points. Beginners and athletes alike see the same relief from sore muscles, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, back pain, shin splints, and reduction in scar tissue.

Loaded with Features

Patented technology, sturdy construction, and high quality materials come together to deliver a massage roller with exceptional value. Allow the 3 unique massage zones to deliver a custom deep tissue massage to your problem areas. Designed specifically to address muscle soreness and joint stiffness. The 3 massage zones apply pressure in varying degrees of density, encouraging muscles to release stored lactic acid, kinks, and knots. Unlock the secret of sports therapists, in the privacy of your own home. Our 500 lb rating supports all body types while maintaining consistent resistance, allowing you to use your own body weight to control the massage intensity. Your 321 STRONG foam roller is easy to clean, and even easier to take with you on the go.

Muscle Stick

Roll your tummy, quads, calves, etc without having to get on the floor. You control the intensity, and can easily maneuver into hard-to-reach places with ease.

Stretching Strap

Take your stretching to the next level with this two-tone stretching strap. Insert your foot into the the last hole, and grab a hold the loops as you get a deep stretch that you can control.

Peanut Lacrosse Ball

Great for the neck, arms, calves, and any smaller parts that are difficult to position on top of a massage roller, roll away knots and lactic acid with the channel created between the two spheres.

Spiky Massage Ball

This dramatic looking addition to the kit can offer a pleasing and intense massage to any body part, but really makes it's mark on the arches of your feet, and mitigating plantar fasciitis.

These benefits are for more than just athletes

• Decreased muscle and joint pain

• Relaxes and restores fascia

• Better flexibility, joint mobility, and range of motion

• Great for use before and after workouts

• Reduce muscle pain and injury recovery time with regular use

• Prevent injuries and pulled muscles

• Unlike smooth rollers, penetrates deep into muscle tissue for maximum benefit

• Self massage for de-stressing and relaxing after a long day

Planet Fitness Muscle Massager Foam Roller for Deep Tissue Massage

Venture Products, LLC

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • The perfect companion to yoga and Pilates , but well suited for runners or for flushing lactic acid from muscle tissue after a workout at the gym . The soft texture is very approachable for beginners just looking to start myofascial release .
  • Great before exercise to stretch and prevent injuries . Amazing after a workout for recovery . Soothe sore leg muscles like the hamstring and calf
  • Roll out your back , apply pressure anywhere on the body for myofascial release , ease the pain from plantar fasciitis by stretching the fascia and arches of the feet
  • Foam rollers are perfect for runners , crossfit performance , cellulite reduction , therapeutic massaging of the thoracic region , your it band after running
  • One of the best pilates and yoga accessories , the massage roller is also helpful for balance training
  • Protected by US Patents 9,345,921 and 9,656,112

User questions & answers

Question: Are the spikes somewhat hard ? If this is too soft I don’t want it . I need hurt and pleasurable pain in my back for sore knots
Answer: The colors and also different types. I was looking at the same thing when I got mine. Yeh be careful when you change colors. Look real careful at the pictures. You could wind up.with different size and type of pattern on the roller
Question: What is the difference between all the models. Can you please explain
Answer: there is a seam and it is NOT firmly glued down. It arrived already peeling off. returning it.
Question: Can this be used for massaging shins & helping shin splints
Answer: Unfortunately it is not
Question: I am trying to order an 18" purple roller but after making this selection and adding it my cart it shows that I have selected a 13" gray
Answer: Hi Devon P.!I cannot speak for an inflatable gym ball but I can say one of the main uses for the UpCircleSeven Yoga Wheel is made for backbends! It is smaller allowing for a greater arch and thus with much practice you can improve your backbend! :)Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me again, I’m always around! Stay Wonderful,MilaUpCircleSeven

Product features

Deep Tissue Massaging Foam Roller

At almost 13 inches in length, the Planet Fitness deep tissue massaging foam roller is smart addition to your home gym. Made with a rugged PVC core, it flushes lactic acid from muscle tissues, increasing blood flow and circulation. The star of the show is the spinal channel, which keeps the bumps off of your vertebrae, and works the soft tissue on either side of the spine.

Engineered performance

Designed to knead and stretch the muscle tissues and fascia, this roller is engineered from the ground up. Start with the rugged PVC core, built to stand up to daily use, then layer on perfectly shaped massage projections designed to penetrate deep into tight muscles, while still feeling comfortable.

Great for your back

Designed to work the soft tissue of your back, while avoiding your vertebrae, the Planet Fitness deep tissue massaging foam roller is like no other on the market. Don't stop there, it's also great on arms and legs, too.

Goodbye knots

Say goodbye to painful muscle adhesions, kinks, and knots. Control the intensity by adjusting how much of your own body weight you apply to the massage area. You get the custom massage you want anytime, every time.

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