Best Knee Massagers Australia 2024 – Tools to Relief Your Knees

Are you experiencing knee stiffness, inflammation or pain due to a health issue, your job or high-impact sports? One way to get short-term relief is to use knee massagers.

These electric or battery-operated devices utilise vibration (or compression) and heat therapies to reduce discomfort and swelling.

Seniors typically use them for their aching joints. But physical therapists may also recommend them for patients recovering from a surgery or injury.

There are many types of knee massagers available. Some look like oversized knee pads, while others come in flexible fabric for wrapping around your leg.

They also have different heat and massage modes to suit individual preferences. With so many options, choosing the perfect device can be confusing.

To help you out, I’ve identified some of the best knee massagers in Australia you can buy online.

Check out my reviews and buying guide to get clues on what to look for in these therapeutic devices.

Here are the 5 best knee massagers in Australia:

Best All-Around Device: Hydragun HeatPulse Knee Massager

Are you experiencing body pains other than your knees? No problem! The versatile Hydragun HeatPulse Knee Massager can also take care of your shoulders and elbows.

Features

Hydragun is a Singapore-based company geared towards designing solutions for bodily pains. What I like about their products is that they are thoughtfully made, from packaging to actual product use.

And the new Hydragun HealtPulse is one good example. Unboxing this massager was a pleasant experience as each part has its compartment inside the box.

The Silkro fabric knee sleeve feels soft and smooth to the touch, while the mesh-like material at the back is comfortable against the skin.

Setting up the massager is pretty straightforward, too. Once the wrap is secure around your leg, press the power button until the pod turns on.

Then, stick it to the magnets on the sleeve. Next, start selecting your preferred massage settings. The M button is for the three massage speeds designated in different colours (blue for low, green for medium and white for high).

Afterwards, press either the + or – button to adjust the temperature from 40 to 60°C. There are five levels to choose from at 5-degree increments. Your selected temperature level should appear at the centre of the control pod.

Now, all that’s left to do is to sit back and relax until the massager completes its 30-minute massage operation. Once done, the device turns off automatically, and you can use it for massaging the other knee if you want.

When fully charged, the Hydragun HeatPulse battery should have enough power to run two 30-minute massage sessions or up to 90 minutes max.

There’s also a strap extension made from the same Silkro fabric that you can attach to wrap the sleeve around your shoulders. You can also put on the same sleeve to massage your elbows.

I tried both, and while I think the shoulder option is perfect, the elbow option was a little tricky to wrap around with one hand.

Also, I find the sleeve a little too big for my arm that it keeps sliding off while in use. If you have slender arms, you might need to sit still and rest your elbow on a table or armrest to keep the sleeve in place.

But don’t worry about the control pod being hard to reach when you need to massage your elbow or shoulder. You can adjust your massage configurations first, then stick the pod to the sleeve.

Overall

The Hydragun HeatPulse may be a little pricier than similar single-sleeve massagers, but it can do more than massage your knees. Its set-and-forget operation is a plus, too.

Hydragun also has a local office in Australia, making customer service easily accessible. That means pairing your massager with Hydragun’s compression sleeve or massage gun shouldn’t be a problem.

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Best Battery Life: GINEKOO Heated Knee Massager

The GINEKOO Heated Knee Massager is a two-unit device with three-level vibration and heating modes. With its powerful battery capacity, you can get your invigorating massage anywhere you like without charging it often.

Features

If you usually experience stiffness or pain on both knees, this GINEKOO knee massager is the one for you. This 2-in-1 brace wrap has vibrating plus heating functions to provide quick relief for people with arthritis, decreased synovial fluid or inflammation in the bursae.

There are three modes for massage and heat modes: high frequency (55-60°C), medium frequency (50-55°C) and low frequency (45-50°C). The heat mode is soothing and should start warming your knees in 5 seconds.

Each amplitude has a different colour display (red, blue and green), making it easy to adjust at night. Also, there are only two buttons to press and control – the wave button for vibration level and the flame button for temperature.

Probably the best part about this device is that each knee brace operates independently. Both have a power bank that works for 2 hours when fully charged. And charging time takes about 2.5 hours by connecting the USB C cable to an AC adapter or mobile battery power.

I like how you can apply customised settings on either brace, which is excellent when one knee needs more intense treatment. You can switch off either mode when you only want the vibration or heat to work, too, if you like.

Aside from versatility, the GINEKOO Heated Knee Massager is also safe. Its heating pad drops to a tolerable level once it reaches the highest temperature.

A timer or automated shut-off feature would have made it better, though. Still, this device should give you an invigorating massage with peace of mind.

When it comes to comfort, this massager won’t disappoint either. The flexible neoprene brace has three adjustable Velcro straps to keep it secure on your leg. However, there is no strap extension to make the device suitable for an elbow or shoulder massage.

But right below the massager buttons is an extra strap for a more secure fit. Each brace also has a plastic knee cap shell that acts as your guide for proper positioning.

This plastic shell enhances mobility, too, allowing you to move and bend your knees. That means you can walk around, drive or work in the office while enjoying your knee massage.

The fabric is also soft and smooth, so it’s very comfy to use while wearing pants or shorts. However, the cloth cover is not removable for washing or cleaning. So, make sure to use the device on clean knees to prevent dirt build-up.

Overall

I like how the GINEKOO Heated Knee Massager gives me the option to massage one or both knees. The longer battery life makes it perfect for travelling, too. This unit is ideal if you prefer simple, user-friendly operations.

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Best All-In Therapy: FORTHiQ Cordless Knee Massager

The FORTHiQ Cordless Knee Massager is best for people looking for a durable and powerful device. With its vibration, heat and infrared/laser lighting treatment combo, you will relieve sore muscles in no time.

Features

People go through different levels of knee pain. Some get relief from a skin-surface treatment, while others need deep-tissue remedies. And this is where the FORTHiQ massager comes in handy.

Like other knee massagers, it has three options for heating (40, 50 and 60°C) and vibration (low, high and automated). But what makes it different is the additional laser and infrared modes.

The laser feature provides low-level red-light therapy on the skin surface for better blood flow or lymphatic drainage plus reduced inflammation.

On the other hand, infrared light penetrates more deeply and generates low-level heat. In turn, this option promotes faster pain relief and healing of deep tissues.

With the FORTHiQ Cordless Knee Massager, you can short press the on/off button to choose infrared, laser or both. Pair it with your ideal vibration and heat settings to enjoy the ultimate at-home treatment.

It only comes with a single massaging unit, though. But with its high-performing rechargeable battery, massaging one knee after the other should not be a problem. It can work continuously on a full charge for 1 to 1.5 hours, and charging time is easy with its USB C cable.

The FORTHiQ massager is also a versatile device that you can use for your elbows and shoulders.

However, as it is not of stretchable material, the fit may not be perfect for some users. Also, you probably need to sit and stay still during the massage to keep the device in place.

One thing I’m impressed about this unit is how lightweight it is. Despite having a hard plastic casing, the massager weighs less than a kilo, making it perfect for on-the-go massage sessions.

It can be a bit bulky and has no storage bag, though. But it should fit in any suitcase. And with an easy-to-wipe plastic shell, keeping it clean should not be a problem.

The lighted LED touchscreen is also a great feature, especially when you like nighttime massages. It’s intuitive and beeps each time you make a setting adjustment.

Its two Velcro straps are strong and long enough to suit most leg sizes. The instruction manual is detailed, too, with large text and explanatory drawings to help you get started.

FORTHiQ is a trademark of HubForth International Ltd, a UK-based company. More importantly, FORTHiQ products available in Australia include local aftercare services, which is good news if you need further assistance.

Overall

The FORTHiQ Cordless Knee Massager is excellent for levelled-up knee treatment options. Its durable construction and good battery power make it ideal for years of soothing massages.

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Best Reversible Design: REATHLETE XPRESS Knee Massager

Knee pain can travel to your thigh or calf if you stand a lot at work or are into high-impact sports. In that case, the air compression and heat therapy from the REATHLETE XPRESS Knee Massager is what you need.

Features

Unlike most knee massagers available, the REATHLETE XPRESS uses compression rather than vibration for pain relief. This method works by squeezing and adding pressure to the sore or swollen area.

It may seem counterintuitive, but this treatment can effectively improve circulation, preventing blood from pooling in the veins. When blood flows smoothly, swelling and pain become less, too.

People use compression socks or stockings for this form of therapy. But what makes REATHLETE XPRESS a better option is the addition of heat.

With this extra feature, your tissues get dual stimulation for faster relief. Aside from that, this device also features a unique reversible design.

Depending on how you put it on, you can use it as a thigh or calf massager.

The control unit with a lighted LCD screen makes it easy to set your massage. There are three temperature levels: 50, 60 and 70°C. The same goes for the pressure level: 15.4, 21.5 and 29.9 kPa.

You can mix up the temperature and pressure options or choose one of the three auto modes on the screen.

Also, when you turn on the device, it automatically starts with a 20-minute session. But you can always press pause, then press play when ready.

One thing to note is that the screen display is quite hard to read with the sleeve upside down. But it should not be a problem once you get used to the device.

Like other massagers, this one is rechargeable and can give you 60 minutes of therapy when fully charged. It’s also easy to bring along to your gym or office with the padded carrying case included.

Overall

The REATHLETE XPRESS Knee Massager is an excellent alternative for people who do not feel comfortable with vibration therapy. Size-wise, it’s larger and heavier than most massagers. But its ability to treat your calf or thigh along with your knee makes up for that.

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Best Price: CUEHEAT Knee Massager

Buying an expensive massaging device may not be too practical for treating occasional joint pains. The CUEHEAT Knee Massager has the basics you need at a reasonable price.

Features

Some knee massaging devices have all sorts of modern features. While they are nice to have, they can add to the cost. Moreover, it is a waste of investment if you won’t be using the massager often.

In that case, the CUEHEAT massager is worth considering. This heating wrap can only massage one knee at a time. However, compared with other single sleeve massagers, it is more affordable and should be easy to buy two if needed.

Despite its lower price, you can easily see that the device is well made. The neoprene material is soft, flexible and not itchy at all. Stitching on the edges is clean and durable, too.

And the material also feels snug on the leg without straps bunching up behind the knee. I also like the small rubbery dots underneath that keep the sleeve in place.

Its long straps make it easy to wrap around the leg, too. There is no LCD or touchscreen display, though. But it is very user-friendly as you only need to control two buttons for massage and heating modes.

It’s a budget massager, but I like that it still has the standard therapy options to configure the therapy you prefer or need. For instance, it has three massage levels designated by coloured lights (green for low frequency, blue for constant vibration and red for high frequency).

Heat levels also have three options (green for 45°C, blue for 55°C and red for 65°C). One thing to note is that the heating function is concentrated on the lower knee area and does not reach the top.

Also, two massage boxes inside the device work on the sides of your knee, but the sensation does not reach the kneecap. This placement may not satisfy some users, depending on their pain signals.

I also noticed that its battery is smaller than other massagers, yet it has 3000mAh power. It’s an excellent feature as it makes the device lighter and more portable.

You can charge the battery using the charging kit provided or plug the power cord into a wall outlet and connect it directly to the massager.

Take care when plugging the device directly into the wall outlet, though. The power jack is at the bottom, which puts the cord at a tricky angle.

Another thing I like about this massager is its cold function, where you can slip an ice pack (not included) into the sleeve at the back.

Overall

The CUEHEAT knee massager has some design and performance limitations. But it offers functionality and comfort for a budget-friendly price. It’s the best choice for occasional users and those who like heat or cold therapies.

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Things to Look for When Buying a Knee Massager

Choosing among the best knee massagers in Australia will be less overwhelming when you understand their key product features. Here are some of the factors you should consider.

Massage and heat settings

Knee massagers typically have different vibration intensities to suit specific pains. The intensity level can go from soft to hard. Test the product first when you can.

Some units also offer deep massages, while other modes produce pulsing sensations. Still, other models use compression rather than vibration for pain relief.

For maximum effects, consider getting a massager with heating functions as well. The best ones are those with adjustable temperature levels.

Keep in mind that varying massage and heat modes affect the cost. Also, some models offer heat and massage functions separately. The choice is up to you.

Versatility

Knee massaging devices may come in single units or pairs. Singles can only treat one knee at a time.

But, in most cases, these also have more sophisticated technology, making them more expensive than twin packs.

On the other hand, dual massagers can work on both knees simultaneously. They also offer more flexibility as you can walk and move around while having your massage.

There are also devices that can massage other body parts, like your shoulders and elbows. Keep these model options in mind when considering wearability and function.

Material

Some knee massagers come with a sturdy plastic frame lined with soft neoprene fabric underneath. The helmet-like design is easy to position and strap on your knee.

Other models are purely fabric that looks like a soft knee wrap. They also come with Velcro straps that you can wrap around your leg and adjust.

No matter which material you prefer, it’s vital that you choose one that is durable, comfortable and hypoallergenic. Extra insulation is also best for massagers with a heat function.

Look for a unit with material that is easy to clean or has a removable cover for hand or machine washing, too.

Ease of Use

One of the main reasons for getting a knee massager is convenience. With this at home, you can skip buying pain medications or seeing a massage therapist.

And so, a knee massager that’s easy to set up is best. Pick one that you can strap by yourself and use daily without problems.

Ideally, check the brand website or product info for demo videos. Also, read customer reviews or ask someone who’s using one.

More specifically, try to think about these features when weighing your options:

• Battery life and charging time. Rechargeable knee massagers usually have batteries that last from 90 to 300 minutes of continuous use. Their charging time takes about 3 hours or less. Make sure to choose a knee massager that matches your frequency of use and preferred massage duration.
• Power source. A corded massager needs to be plugged into a power outlet while in use, which restricts movement. It should be fine if you like to have your massage at home. But if you prefer something more portable, go for a wireless unit.
• Auto shut off. It’s best to get a unit with a timer or an automated shut-off function to avoid over-massaging or heating. This safety feature is also handy for the elderly and those who sleep through their massage time. If you want, get a model that switches off automatically after reaching a high temperature and then turns on once cooled down.

Size and style

If you like packing a knee massager for travelling, then make sure to check its dimensions. Getting one with a storage bag is also a good idea.

Weight and shape are also relevant factors to consider. Choose one that is not too bulky or heavy.

Also, you might want to check the maximum knee circumference of the unit or its strap length. Some have wider knees than most people, while others have slender legs.

You have to ensure that the massager fits snugly. Otherwise, the massage and heat therapies won’t work as efficiently.

And if it’s too tight, burns, discomfort and blood circulation issues might only add to your knee problem.

Price

Knee massagers come in different price ranges. The features, of course, are the top cost indicator. But brands can also dictate their value.

Scout some options first before buying. It will be easier to set a budget that way.

Do not go for the cheapest model available, either. Invest in something effective, safe and of good quality to avoid wasting time and money.

Check and test the product, when possible, to prevent paying for features you do not like or need.

Knee massagers are generally affordable. But a little research about the product ensures you’ll make the most of this health investment.

Conclusion

A knee massager is an excellent therapeutic device for post-workout soreness, arthritic pain or work stress. With this alternative, you can do away with pain killers, ointments or expensive massage appointments.

It offers quick relief and helps you get a good night’s sleep. This device can also complement other medications you are taking, depending on your doctor.

It’s a good thing that you can easily purchase the best knee massagers in Australia online for sure.

But each massaging unit offers various forms of pain management. So, make sure to research their features and specs thoroughly.

Test your options first, then choose based on your needs, preference and budget for maximum benefits.

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FAQs on Knee Massagers

1. What causes knee pain?

Ageing can wear down the cartilage that protects the knee bones. As a result, seniors experience various painful knee conditions like arthritis. Athletes can also feel knee pain due to muscle overuse and torn ligaments. Sedentary lifestyles, lack of exercise and obesity may cause pain as well.

Exercise is crucial in strengthening knee muscles and preventing knee pains during old age. However, make sure not to overdo it. A good workout does not mean you have to feel sharp body pains. As you age, it’s best to do activities that do not involve repetitive movements or pounding the pavement. Pain is a warning signal, so listen to your body to avoid long-term issues.

2. Is a knee massager good for arthritis?

Research shows that massage improves the conditions of patients with an arthritic knee. Specifically, it positively affects stiffness levels, pain and physical function, causing minimal side effects. Specialists explain that massage can loosen up muscle tension to allow blood flow and reduce swelling.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), cortisone injections and surgery are the usual treatments for osteoarthritis. But these can be invasive, expensive or degenerative in the long run. And so, medical professionals believe that massage combined with add-on remedies is a good alternative. It’s a safe and relaxing way to take your mind off intense arthritic pain for a short time.

3. Will heat help with my knee pain?

Heat increases blood flow, allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach painful joints. When this happens, tight muscles become loose, and muscle pain feels less intense. However, if you use a heating pad, bottle or massager for your aching knee, avoid using it for more than 10 to 20 minutes. Using it for too long can cause skin redness, pain or burns.

Also, if you have a swollen knee, it’s best to use an ice pack first, then switch to a heating pad. A hot bath or shower is another option to relieve aching muscles and joints due to arthritis, injury or chronic back pain. Make sure to keep the water temperature between 33°C and 37°C.

4. How often should I use a knee massager?

Generally, people without any serious health condition can massage their knees once a day. It should be enough to relieve stiff muscles and joints. As for how long your massage session should be, it’s best to follow what the instruction manual says.

If you are recovering from a severe knee injury or surgery, massage frequency and duration should depend on your doctor’s recommendation. You must also consult a medical professional if you plan to use it for chronic knee pain. Professional guidance is best to avoid exacerbating your condition.

5. Is it OK to exercise with knee pain?

Exercise is good therapy for painful knees. But you need to avoid or perform specific exercises so as not to hurt your knees more. For instance, skip exercises that involve jumping, turning, excessive bending or sudden starts and stops. Exercising on hard surfaces is also not advisable.

Choose low-impact activities instead, like moderate walking. Exercising in water is also great as buoyancy takes the load off your knees. Using knee-friendly equipment like ellipticals and recumbent bikes is another option. You can also strengthen your knees by doing exercises like quad sets, straight leg raises, leg curls, clamshells, bridging and planking.

Last Updated on 13/01/2024 By Denise Deschanel