If you’re anything like me, you hold tension in your upper back, neck, and shoulder areas. To make things worse, I also have a tech-centric job. There is not a day (or maybe even a few hours) that goes by without me looking at a badly angled screen that increases my risk for pain later on. Not smart, I know.
On this page, I’ll review the LiBa Back and Neck Massager. Yes, it’s that hook-looking thing that has received over 35,000 reviews with an average of 4.6 out of 5 on Amazon. If you’ve been on the fence about it, maybe my review can help bring you some clarity.
LiBa Back and Neck Massager Review: Before Purchase
Before receiving this, I’d never given the hook product more thought other than critiquing its appearance. I have already taken advantage of other products for back pain (mainly a massage gun and the awesome QL Claw) and gone for massage therapy multiple times.
My biased thought right off the bat was that I thought the size was a bit much.
Despite this superficial critique, I was excited to try this product out once given the opportunity.
LiBa Back and Neck Massager Review: Getting the LiBa
I was surprised by how small the package was despite knowing how big it is based on the pictures. It came in two pieces that are easily snapped together.
Also, even if it is made of fiberglass-infused BPA-free plastic, it doesn’t feel flimsy at all. It’s light enough for me to carry but sturdy enough to pull on it strongly when I want more pressure. When doing this with intensity it doesn’t feel like it will snap.
The makers also noted that since it’s waterproof it can be used in the shower. I’m not sure if I’d go so far as to take it in there with me, but I think the heat and water aspect might help those who need it.
What Does the LiBa Back and Neck Massager Do?
Well if you haven’t guessed it… what it does is definitely in the name! This contraption can help release trigger points in your neck and back. Depending on how much pressure you can apply, it can ultimately be a deep tissue tool as well.
This tool is meant for you to use on your own. With proper application, you can do the following:
- Target pain trigger points
- Massage multiple muscle groups
- Massage feet
- Improve blood circulation
- Promote relaxation
LiBa Back and Neck Massager Review: How to Use it
There are different ways to use this depending on the muscle area you’d like to target. The product comes with a nifty pamphlet that shows how to hold and angle the hook to get the desired areas.
There are 6 nodes to help make this product even more user-friendly - even if you may have limited range in mobility.
Just as you would expect from a massage therapist’s hands, comfortably hold the product so one of the nodes pushes into your tense area. Then use the other end that you are holding and pull so that the node applies pressure.
As noted earlier, there is a visual guide that shows how to use it.
See these pictures below for reference.
LiBa Back and Neck Massager Review: Would I Recommend It?
Overall, I would say the LiBa massager is effective. It did relieve my upper back tension - which I did NOT know I had until I started using it.
I would recommend this for a friend who has upper back pain… it’s affordable, portable, and lightweight.
It’s also good if you’d like to use it while sitting or standing.
One thing I may not like over time is the fact that you have to apply pressure. This does require effort and consideration.
In comparison to the QL Claw, where you use your body weight for pain relief, using it requires some muscle.
LiBa Back and Neck Massager Review: FAQ
Do neck and back massagers work?
This is a case-by-case basis and results are subjective so it’s hard to say. It also depends on if you’re using the products as intended, everyone is different. For me personally, I’d say they do work if used correctly and consistently.
Almost all of the neck and back massagers I’ve used have given me some relief, maybe not 100% relief, but noticeable at least.
How do you use a LiBa back and neck massager?
Position and hold the LiBa like a hook over your back or neck area and allow one of the nodes to push into your trigger point.
There are many ways to use this product depending on the area. Essentially you can hold it any way that is comfortable for you
Is it safe to use a vibrating massager on your neck?
I wouldn’t recommend it. A vibrating massager (especially something like the theragun) may add too much pressure over bony areas of the spine. The vibrating massagers also have different levels of intensity where the highest levels can cause soft tissue damage.
In addition to soft tissue or spinal damage, you can also interrupt blood flow to the brain. In a crazy story posted on TikTok, a woman posted about how she used her massage gun on her neck for pain relief. Long story short, she ended up with a lump on her neck which turned out to be an inflamed lymph node.
It is possible, however, to use a vibrating massager on your upper back and trapezius area.
Do back massagers actually work?
Going back to the first question, yes… If they are used correctly.
LiBa Back and Neck Massager Review: Conclusion
Looks aside, this is a great tool to have for upper back and neck pain. The small nodes are a nice size for trigger points in your neck and the hook shape is convenient for reaching those particular spots in your back.
Although I haven’t tried it in the legs or feet, I can imagine the relief is only effective depending on the pressure you can apply yourself. With that said, it is definitely designed for the upper neck or back. Using this on the feet or legs can be a challenge because of the shape.
No matter what tool you use, it’s a good idea to see what works best for you. Make a good massage tool part of your self-care arsenal and feel the trigger points fade!