Back Stretcher

I’ve had this back stretcher for a long time now and it still functions perfectly. I have some serious issues, including degenerative lumbar scoliosis, and my physical therapist approves of daily use. It really makes a difference for me in flexibility, pain, and yes, even my posture. I stand noticeably straighter immediately after a twenty minute session. Product is very light, portable, and I like that it zips right up without having to use an additional bag - it’s self-contained. The ability to adjust the intensity and choose from several programs from the securely attached controller makes this a convenient, user-friendly product. Almost like having a chiropractor wherever you take it.

I just got this and I'm already willing to write a five star review. The only thing that would change my mind is if it breaks in under say.. 18 months-2 years of moderate use (that may not seem like long, but you're not paying a fortune for this and it works well while it works at least). I've tried a few of these inexpensive massage items, the shiatsu cushions and such. While this is more of a stretcher, it does relax you similarly to how a massage would and does gently massage you in its own way. My point is this is the best item I've tried yet. For one, unlike the shiatsu devices, it's quiet. It's gentle enough tht it doesn't hurt (like some of the shiatsu devices with their rock hard balls), yet strong enough to be effective. The programs are pleasant. They gently raise certain parts of your spine and then rest for a second before moving on to a different area. It also has an almost tapping like function which is really interesting and unexpected. If you've ever gone to a chiropractor and been put on one of those spine rolling machines, this is somewhat similar--though not as effective as what I'm sure are multiple thousands of dollar machines. Obviously. But this is great for the price. And easy to stow. I do wish it had a function just like the chiropractor machines that roll from the base of your spine to the top and back down again. Even though I just got it, I don't believe it does. But that is a minor complaint. Contrary to what others have said in the question section and perhaps some reviewers--I find it works perfectly well in a bed as long as you don't have a really soft mattress. My mattress isn't rock hard and it works great on top of it. And because it's quiet you could use it while watching TV etc without being annoyed/distracted. I recommend giving this a try.

I wasn't sure exactly how this was going to be but I have been having chronic problems with back spasm and was ready to try anything. I have been using it every day for 5 days and I find this really helpful. I have only used the Stretching and Relaxing modes on the lowest setting and so far it has been great. I can feel the stretch - just approaching discomfort - which is what my Chiropractor recommended for Yoga moves -and I really feel better afterwards. I am hoping that progressing slowly to the higher levels I will be able to stretch and relax my muscles and eventually be able to work on strengthening them. Overall I think the mat is well made. Although I have been leaving it out most of the time it folds up and stores easily when I need to get it out of the way. My negative comments would be that it needs a longer cord - the one included is very limiting and it recommends not using an extension cord so you could have a problem finding a convenient place to use it. I have been using it on my bed and I had to use an extension cord despite the fact that that is not recommended. I would be happy to order a longer length of the heavier portion that goes from the transformer to the outlet if that was available to purchase. I would also like to see some markings on the mat for positioning and more pictures and advice on how to orient yourself on the mat. The information on how to use it is really very sketchy. I looked at the video and pics on Amazon and searched Youtube and didn't find anything more than very minimal info and a few pictures of people in different positions with no explanation of the reasoning for each position. All in all I would recommend it to a friend - I think the price is very reasonable the positives of it's performance outweigh the negatives for me

I almost never write reviews but this deserved a +5 review even though I had to return the first because it stopped working after the 3rd use but it was promptly replaced. The only thing missing from this is detailed instructions for use, dvd would be so helpful. The biggest hint I can give you is... learn how to relax every part of your body, when the lumbar first inflated my body fought it rather than dropping and relaxing my hips and pelvis, concentrate on relaxing those areas! Let your head drop to the opposite side of where it raises your shoulder blades to stretch your neck. Get the most out of the neck stretches by letting your head relax and drop when it lifts both shoulders straight up. This is NOT a massage mat; it is a physiotherapy stretching mat. I would like to give this a higher rating over 10 stars if I could! My sciatica pain is gone and my neck muscles are so much more relaxed after using this 3x per week. I have been to DO's and Chiropractors for adjustments and feel much like when I get out of their office after using this mat. I also want to include that I am an actual consumer and have not been paid for this review.

I have severe back/hip pain, go to physio regularly, bought this to help me make to to next physio appt. WOW! I feel so much relieve after using it. The trick is to try out different positions of the mat where your body needs to be, arms stretched out to the side then totally relax! Let the mat do the work for you! With your arms stretched out you can feel and see the movements of the mat working different areas. I would purchase this again and have already recommended to friends. I actually asked my physiotherapist if this could be of benefit or if I should stay away from, he said with as bad as my back is, anything can help! So glad I got it!

A wonderful product. I have used it every day to help treat chronic back and hip pain. It does not eliminate my pain, but it does help me to remain mobile. I wish it had a heat setting. It claims to treat shoulder pain however, it really only treats the shoulder blade area. I use a separate massager for neck and shoulder. If you have upper or lower back pain, I highly recommend this very soothing and relaxin stretching mat. It also helps me to relax when I am having difficulty falling asleep.

Je suis très satisfait qualité prix! Et il me soulage mon douleur de dos!

My wife uses the mat almost everyday to relieve her back pain, also great for a massage. Very easy to use, just plug it in and enjoy. On the contols are pre determined programs, from 9 min. - 20 min. Gifted it to my wife for Christmas- best present ever!!

The product has a bad smell and triggered my asthma. So be careful if you have asthma history.