The 9 Best Myofascial Release Tools

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here's our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Tired of waking up feeling sore? Does your body ache after every workout?

Allow us to introduce myofascial release, a technique in which pressure is applied to the fascia — the connective tissue that surrounds every muscle in your body — in the hopes of relieving pain and increasing range of motion (1, 2).

How does it work? While more research is needed, it's suggested that applying pressure to the fascia helps elongate the muscle tissue, making it less tight and painful (3, 4).

Therefore, the goal of self-myofascial release products is to help reduce the amount of pain and tension you feel in a specific area of your body, such as your shoulders or legs (2, 3, 4).

While some products cover a larger surface area, others may help break up muscle knots — also known as trigger points.

We compiled a list of the best myofascial release tools to fit a variety of needs using the following criteria:

Just keep in mind that it's important to talk with a healthcare professional before using a myofascial release tool.

In addition to clearing you for the use of these items, a professional can show you how to use them correctly and recommend the best product to fit your needs.

Here are the 10 best myofascial release tools of 2022.

General price ranges with dollar signs ($–$$$) are indicated below. One dollar sign means the product is rather affordable, whereas four dollar signs indicate a higher cost.

Generally, prices range from $21.95–$399, though this may vary depending on where you shop.

Pricing guide

Foam rolling is a popular self-myofascial release technique designed to improve blood flow and ease muscle soreness and tightness.

Because they target a larger area than other myofascial release tools, foam rollers are commonly used on the legs and back.

While some are smooth, others, like this roller from TriggerPoint, have bumps and ridges to provide deeper and more intense pressure.

In addition to being lightweight and easy to use, this grid roller is available in several bright colors (neon orange, anyone?) and includes access to free online instructional videos.

What's more, it supports users of varying sizes, with a max weight capacity 500 pounds (lbs.), or 226.8 kilograms (kg).

One thing to keep in mind is that this foam roller doesn't collapse, so it's a bit bulky for traveling.

Additionally, as with any other foam roller, avoid rolling directly over any joints, such as your knees or elbows. You should also avoid rolling over your hips.

If you’re interested in a basic foam roller, look no further than this high density option from Amazon.

In contrast to the TriggerPoint roller above, the Amazon foam roller has a smooth surface that's designed to distribute pressure evenly, which may be more comfortable if you’re new to foam rolling.

In addition to being affordable, the roller is available in several sizes and has nearly 77,000 (mostly) positive customer reviews online.

As with the GRID Foam Roller, users of this roller should avoid rolling directly over small joints and their lower back.

Also, make sure to consult a healthcare professional before using a foam roller, especially if you have a chronic injury or are pregnant.

Looking for a cross between a massage gun and a foam roller? A vibrating roller may be the myofascial release tool of your dreams.

The Vyper 3 is a vibrating foam roller made by Hyperice — the company behind other popular recovery tools, including Hypervolt percussion massagers and Normatec compression devices.

With three vibration settings, the roller allows you to customize the intensity of your massage. It's also cordless, compact, and TSA-approved for carry-on, so it's convenient for travel. What's more, the roller has a battery life of up to 2 hours of use per charge.

This roller can be paired with the Hyperice app for guided sessions, advice, and progress monitoring.

High tech features aside, the Vyper 3 offers the same benefits as other foam rollers and is particularly beneficial for massaging larger muscle groups in your back and lower body.

Cryotherapy (also known as cold therapy) is a technique that uses brief exposure to very cold temperatures to help reduce muscle inflammation and numb nerve pain (5).

The Cryosphere is a massage roller that's filled with nontoxic cooling gel to combine the benefits of cryotherapy and self-myofascial release.

Slightly larger than a baseball, the sphere can be used on its own or inserted into a rubber grip to make it easier to hold.

While it's not the only cooling massage device on the market, the Cryosphere stands out for its quick chill time — it can be frozen and ready to go in just 2 hours. It also stays cold for up to 6 hours and is easy to clean.

Like other massage rollers, the Cryosphere can be used to target trigger points in most areas of your body, including your shoulders, arms, legs, and feet.

It may also be a good option if you’re dealing with tennis elbow or have another small area in need of relief (6).

Keep in mind that cryotherapy should not be performed continuously for long periods, since numbness, tiredness, skin irritation, and redness can occur with prolonged exposure. In addition, ice should not be applied directly to the skin. As with ice packs, you’ll want to use some fabric, or a towel, to create a buffer.

Additionally, people with nerve damage should avoid using cryotherapy unless under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Because they have a smaller surface area than a foam roller, massage balls offer a greater amount of precision and pressure control.

They’re especially useful for relieving trigger points in areas such as your hands, feet, neck, and hips.

This three-piece set from 4KOR stands out for the range of ball options it provides, including a lacrosse ball and two massage balls — all of which are latex-free and made of natural rubber.

Called Fireballs, 4KOR's massage balls include a grid-like design for increased pressure. The kit includes two sizes of Fireballs:

Similar to the smaller massage ball, the lacrosse ball is designed to provide targeted relief.

However, because it has a smooth surface rather than the grooves and treads of the Fireballs, it allows for a more even distribution of pressure, which is useful for massaging out more sensitive areas.

Although it's not included in the kit, 4KOR also offers a peanut ball, which is designed to cradle your spine to relieve tension in your neck.

Massage guns are high powered devices that provide short bursts of pressure to targeted areas of your body.

While they’re more expensive than other myofascial release tools, massage guns are designed for athletes who want more intensity than a massage ball or stick can provide.

Theragun is one of the most popular massage gun brands, and its Theragun Elite model provides the best bang for your buck.

In addition to speeds ranging from 1,750–2,400 percussions per minute (PPM), the device offers 2 hours of battery life, 5 interchangeable heads, and an ergonomic handle. It's both powerful and easy to use.

Other notable features include a quiet motor and Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to adjust the speed and save custom presets using the Therabody app.

The Elite also travels well, as it weighs just 2.2 lbs. (1 kg).

Just keep in mind that massage guns do come with some risks. To avoid potential injuries, avoid using them directly on joints, nerves, lymphatic tissue, and major arteries and veins.

Interested in a foam roller without the bulk?

Massage sticks differ from foam rollers in that they use pressure from your hands rather than your bodyweight, making it easier to adjust the intensity.

They’re also lighter and more compact, so they’re a good option if you’re traveling or tight on space.

The Tiger Tail Massage Stick is one of the best options — it's highly rated for being easy to angle, thanks to its comfortable rubber grips.

While it can be used on multiple parts of your body, customers note that it's particularly useful for massaging longer muscles in the legs and back.

The Tiger Tail Massage Stick is made in the United States using latex-free, medical-grade foam and plastic.

Looking for a comprehensive set of manual release tools? The TriggerPoint Performance Collection provides a range of options.

The kit includes five myofascial release tools:

This kit is especially popular with athletes on the go, as it takes up less space than a regular foam roller.

What's more, your purchase comes with a 1-year warranty and access to an instructional video portal to ensure that you’re using the tools correctly.

The MINTBIOLOGY KOA Elite HUMANTouch 3.0 features finger-like spacing to mimic a human's elbow, knuckles, and fingers.

Thanks to its unique design, the tool allows you to control the pace, depth, and pressure applied for a more customized experience.

Unlike foam rollers and massage sticks, the KOA Elite HUMANTouch 3.0 is meant to dig deep, targeting trigger points nearly anywhere on your body — from your scalp down to the bottom of your feet.

Plus, its small size allows it to fit nicely in your carry-on or gym bag.

If you’re concerned about exposure to chemicals, it's worth noting that the KOA Elite HUMANTouch 3.0 is 100% free of chemicals like BPA, PBDE, TBBPA, and phthalates.

When shopping for a myofascial release tool, there are several important factors to consider:

It's also worth looking for products that include detailed instructional materials, such as access to online training videos.

Finally, if you have any questions or concerns about using these products, make sure to talk with a healthcare professional before making your purchase.

Many myofascial release tools like foam rollers, massage sticks, and massage balls can be used without someone's assistance. Be sure to follow manufacturer directions so that you use the tools properly.

If you can reach an area of your body with your fingers, you can also apply myofascial release without tools by pressing on and rubbing trigger points.

Both myofascial release and massage involve the application of pressure to release tension, but they have different benefits and purposes.

Myofascial release works specifically with the fascia, or connective tissue, and usually targets problem areas through sustained pressure.

Massage, in contrast, generally involves larger regions of the body and incorporates a variety of techniques applied at a steady pace for relaxation.

Always follow directions from the manufacturer and your healthcare professionals when performing myofascial release techniques and use tools only where intended.

As a general rule, avoid using a foam roller directly on joints like the knees and elbows. If you have certain health conditions, you may be advised against using myofascial release on some or all areas of your body.

From foam rollers and massage sticks to cryotherapy balls and massage guns, there's a myofascial release tool to fit nearly every budget and recovery need.

When shopping for a release tool, make sure to consider your intended use and select a product you feel comfortable handling.

For safety purposes, always follow the manufacturer's directions and discuss any questions or concerns with a healthcare professional.