15 Thoughtful Gifts for People With Back Pain

presents with text "what are the best gifts for people with back pain?"

You don’t want to buy a gift just to buy a gift.  Most people have plenty of stuff.  The gift needs to be something that the recipient will appreciate and use.  Each time they use it, then they will think of you.

If the person that you are shopping for has a bad back, it’s probably something they deal with on a daily basis.  Any gift that could make a difference with the pain would be welcomed.  To make your shopping easier, we have a few ideas for gifts for people with back pain.

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15 Gift Ideas for People With Back Pain

There are lots of products on the market that would make wonderful presents for those suffering from back pain.  In this list, we have only the best of the best.

We have tried to include gifts that fit into a wide range of budgets and also address different types of back pain (i.e. lower back pain, acute back pain, upper back pain, etc).   You could also pair a couple of the items together to make a back pain gift basket.

Many of these gift ideas will be useful for those that have pain in other areas of the body too.  If you need more options, check out this list of gifts for someone with chronic pain.

#1 Back Massager

Massage is one of the quickest ways to get relief from pain.  Luckily, no one has to leave their home to get a massage anymore.  Just put a back massager like this on a chair, sit down, turn it on, and breathe.  Relaxation and pain relief any time it is needed.

The Comfier neck and back massager utilizes innovative 2D/3D Finger Pressure Shiatsu, Rolling, Air Compression, Vibration and Heat functions to give a comfortable massage that will soothe muscles and ease tension.  It can be used at home or at the office.

In the rare chance the recipient is not fully satisfied with the massager, they can return it for any reason within 30 days.  There is a 24 month warranty for any quality related issues.

Read more reviews and check the price here.

You can also read more about our picks for the best massage chair pad.

#2 Back Stretcher

This is not your typical massager for back pain.  It has a unique inflation mechanism that gradually lifts and stretches the joints to give lower back pain relief.

It is easy to use at home.  Just lay down and position the back stretcher device under you.  Then use the remote to customize the lower back massage and stretch.  There are different heat levels and automatic settings.

The Noova back stretcher may not be the one of the cheapest back pain gift ideas but for someone who has chronic lower back pain it could be just the device they need. It has heat along with vibration and air massage that you won’t find in many other back stretchers.   Read more reviews and get more information here.

If you are looking for a more budget-friendly gift, you could consider a more basic back stretcher.  See the options here.

#3 Massage Chair

If you would like to give something a little more luxurious than a back massager, consider a massage chair.  When you give someone the gift of a massage chair, it’s almost like giving them unlimited professional massages.  The technology behind these chairs is astonishing.  The chairs offer different types of massages, various intensity levels, heat features and even zero gravity technology.

In addition to providing a back massage, some of these chairs will massage arms, feet, and legs too.  They can get a customized full-body massage in the comfort of their own home.  When they are not using the chair as a massager, it can be used as a lounge chair too.

Keep in mind, quality massage chairs are not cheap and they do take up a fair amount of space.  If they do have the space and you have the budget, it could be the ultimate back pain gift.  Every time they sit in the chair, they will think of you.

We think the Kahuna Massage Chair is the best option.  It has sensor scanners that will measure the body and provide a customized full-body massage that feels like a massage therapist.   Read reviews and check the current price for the Kahuna Massage Chair here.

Check out our list of the best massage chairs.  Note that many massage chairs are not designed for those over 6′ tall, so if your recipient is then check out our recommendation for the best massage chair for a tall person.

#4 Car Massager

A car massager is an easy way for anyone to fit more massage time into their busy schedule so it makes a perfect gift for someone with pain in their back.  Getting a massage in the car can help reduce the discomfort in the back and relieve stress.

The massagers for the car offer a variety of types of massaging techniques.  Some also provide lumbar support and a heat function.  It’s an easy gift because one size fits all.  Most car massagers are versatile and can also be used at home as a chair massager.

Our favorite is the Gideon massager because it is the closest you will get to a real massage.   We love the included Shiatsu massage options and the auto shut-off. Read more reviews and check the price here.

Check out our list of the best car massagers.

#5 Handheld Massager

Another type of massage that would make a thoughtful gift for someone with back pain is a handheld massager.  These handy massagers make it easy to target those hard to reach spots like the back.

Some have a heat feature that will relieve muscle knots as well as deep tissue massage that can rid your body of pain.  They are versatile and can be used on many different parts of the body.  Many are also cordless so it’s easy to take them wherever you go.

We like the Mighty Bliss massager.  It is portable and lightweight while providing various heads for different massage needs.  Simply switch out the heads to change from a Shiatsu to a sports massage.  Read more reviews and check the price here.

Check out our list of the best handheld massagers.

#6 Massage Gun

ireliev massage gun with case

A massage gun is a type of handheld massager that delivers a powerful and targeted treatment for pain.  It can reach deeper into the muscle tissue to improve blood flow and unlock the nutrients that are needed to heal the muscles.

It comes with four massage head attachents to make it easy to target different body parts.  The fork head and spade head are designed for the back.  There are also six different speed settings.

The iReliev massage gun is designed to be quiet so the experience is more relaxing.  It’s also lightweight and cordless, so it’s portable too.

Read more reviews and check the price here.

#7 Massage Pillow

A more compact massage gift alternative is a massage pillow.  It’s perfect for a back pain sufferer that wants a portable massager that they can easily take anywhere.  The no-fuss adjustable straps are easy to use and will secure the pillow to any chair, sofa or car seat.  It may be small, but it offers a powerful massage.

This massage pillow uses bi-directional movement to mimic the motion of in-person massage experience.  It will auto-reverse every minute for better distribution of massage effects and to provide more thorough treatment.  The device fits perfectly on your upper back, lower back, neck, shoulders, waist, tights, calves, foot, legs and arms and can be used with or without heat.

Read more reviews and check the price here.

#8 Acupressure Mat

Many people are skeptical about the benefits of acupressure until they try it.  It can do wonders for lower back pain and improve sleep.  Giving someone an acupressure mat as a gift is a fantastic way to introduce them to the therapy.  They will be thanking you for years to come.

Acupressure is based on the alternative practice of acupuncture except it doesn’t use needles. It uses pressure against certain parts of the body to facilitate pain management and foster relaxation. Endorphins are released as blood flow is increased.

Look for an acupressure mat with a lot of pressure points.  You might also want to choose an acupressure mats that comes with an acupressure pillow or one that includes a travel bag.

The Spoonk H-Pack is a smart choice.  The mat itself is made with organic hemp material and ecologically friendly foam. Even the beautiful dyes used on the mats are good for the environment, which means it’s healthy for the person lying on it each night.  Read more reviews and check the price here.

Check out our list of the best acupressure mats.

#9 TENS Unit

Another useful gift for someone with back pain is a TENS machine.  Many people have not heard of TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) units before but could benefit from using one.  TENS units use electrical signals to manage the pain in your body.  The current may feel like a tingling sensation but does not hurt.

It doesn’t take long to see results from using a TENS machine.  Some people notice the pain is reduced after a few minutes, while it may take longer for others.  While the machines are easy to use, it may take a bit to figure out the best placement for the pads. As well as pain relief, a TENS machine may be helpful in reducing cellulite.

The HealthmateForever TENS unit Pro15AB is our favorite TENS unit because the dual channels  allow two areas to be treated at once.  Multiple injuries can be treated in half the time. It also features a bodybuilding mode. Read more reviews and check the price here.

Check out our list of the best TENS units and TENS accessories.  You could also consider getting a TENS EMS machine.

#10 Heating Pad

Another idea for a gift that helps with back pain is a heating pad.  Heat causes blood to dilate, and the blood flow is increased. Increased blood flow to an area of pain brings relief to that area.

There are heating pads designed specifically for the back.  This one can be strapped on so you can even use it on the go.   It also comes with a removable gel pad which can be used for both hot and cold therapy.  Read more reviews and check the price here.

Check out our list of the best heating pads.

#11 Aromatherapy Set

Essential oils can work wonders, including helping reduce inflammation which can help relieve back pain.  It may seem odd to give oils as a gift, but there are some interesting sets that someone with back pain would be thrilled to receive.

This one is an appealing introduction to aromatherapy.  It includes a diffuser and six essentials oils that can help with back pain.  Of course, the oils could also be used for massage if diluted with a carrier oil.  They can also be added to a hot bath.

Read more reviews and check the price here.

#12 Bath Salts

bath gift set

Who doesn’t enjoy a soothing warm bath? It is calming and helps relax tight muscles.  Bath salts help make the experience more luxurious.  It’s a lovely gift for that person with back pain that likes to be pampered.

There are plenty of fabulous bath salt options on Amazon, but you can also make bath salts with essential oils at home or all natural bath bombs with salts.  You could also put together a gift basket with a bath pillow and some scented candles.

Alternatively, consider gifting a bath subscription box so that they can get new bath time inspiration each month and discover new products.

Check out the bath salt gift sets available on Amazon here.

#13 Book About Back Pain

Books are always a practical gift, and there are many popular books about back pain.  The gold standard though is Healing Back Pain: The Mind-Body Connection by Dr. John E. Sarno.

It’s a New York Times bestseller where Dr. Sarno shares his groundbreaking research that reveals how stress and other psychological factors can cause back pain-and how you can reduce pain without drugs, exercise, or surgery.

If you are having doubts about how this book could help with back pain, just read the reviews.  While there are no guarantees, the book has made a huge difference in the lives of many readers.

You might also like these books about massage.

#14 Massage Ball

A massage ball (or a massage ball set) is an affordable gift that anyone with back pain would love. It is the most effective way to get to those hard to reach areas and target deep muscle knots.  You won’t find a back pain product that offers more value.

The ball is placed between the body and something hard and stationary like the floor or a wall.  Movement back and forth will roll the muscle or staying still works a specific pressure point.

Gillsun Fitness makes a set that covers it all. It includes a 5-inch EVA mobility ball, 2.5-inch by 5.5-inch peanut ball, and (for a limited time) a 2.5-inch rubber lacrosse ball all for one fabulous price.  Plus, they come with a travel bag so you can take the balls with you on the go.

The unique design of the Peanut Ball (also called a double massage ball) cradles the spine, perfect for targeting upper back, neck, and scapula.  Then you can reach the other areas of your body with either the large or small ball.  Read more reviews and check the price here.

Check out our list of the best massage balls.

#15 Posture Brace

While a posture brace may not be the most exciting gift to give, it is something that could make a big difference in the life of someone with back pain.  Bad posture is the leading cause of back pain and a posture brace can help break those bad habits.

Standard posture braces feature straps which are worn over the  shoulders. They push on the middle of the back, guiding the thoracic spine into place, and guiding the shoulders backward to correct posture.  It won’t necessarily be comfortable and it may take time to retrain the muscles, but it will make a difference with back pain.

You can learn more about posture braces here.

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Jeanette Lynn