Review : Homedics Shiatsu Massager (model SBM-179H-3GB)

Review : Homedics Shiatsu Massager SBM-179H-3GB
Cost : ~ £50 Argos
Conclusion : Not great. Wish I had bought dearer model. But does give some relief.
Score per cost :  6/10
Score : 4/10

Review :
Easy to use. I regard this model as Homedics 'lite', stripped down to the minimum as a 'smart price' option. However all the comfort has been stripped out, it seems, such as backboard padding. I like this brand though.
Does give some relief but the massage rollers don't go high or low enough (to shoulders and lower back).


In my opinion, the massage rollers are too close and can't be changed, meaning in my back they can tweak my spine. Also the backboard has little or no padding and is actually quite uncomfortable to lean against.
The controls are stitched to the side of the chair rather than being something you can hold, making starting/selection slightly awkward. It's quiet and massages and heats too. Also has a long cable.

I have tried a dearer more comprehensive model and there is no comparison. The other model was much more enjoyable and 'shoulder' massages as well as back massages. I would say 4 rollers is necessary for a good 'workout' (i.e. 2 sets of massage rollers). I would say for real enjoyment you need to buy from the 400 or even 500 series.

Advice : Buy a dearer model (probably 400 series or even 500 series) with 2 sets of rollers at least

update:

One thing I think may be important for 'best' massge in any model is to use it with a chair that has a firm back, such as an office chair (not the mesh type chair). Then the massager can really get at the soft tissue, and in my case seems to avoid the spine.