Tingling or numbness in the feet, swelling in your ankles, fatigue, joint pain and muscle cramping are some of the signs your legs aren’t getting adequate blood circulation.
Whether you have a disease that affects your circulation or you simply aren’t getting your body moving enough during the workday, a circulation machine for your feet can provide the blood flow boost you need.
In this post, I’ll look at how foot and leg circulation machines can make a huge difference for anyone with poor circulation.
Then, I’ll review 10 of the best foot and leg circulation machines on the market today.
Foot Circulation Machine Features to Consider Before Purchasing
When shopping for a foot and leg circulation machine, these are some of the major features you should compare:
Size
Not all circulation machines are one-size-fits-all. Some accommodate larger feet, and others accommodate smaller ones.
Make sure you know the measurements to determine if you’ll be able to use it or not.
Portability
While some people may like a heavier circulation machine for its stability, those that want to bring it to work or pack it in a suitcase for a trip will need a lightweight model.
Decide whether portability is a deciding factor for you, and if so, look at how much a unit weighs before purchasing to ensure you can carry it comfortably.
Vibration
Foot and leg circulation machines work in different ways to boost circulation, but vibration is one of the best.
It mimics physical exercise in your muscles, resulting in warmer muscles and wider blood vessels.
If you experience stiffness or tightness in your feet or legs, you should consider a unit that includes vibration.
Electrical Muscle Stimulation
Circulation machines with an electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) feature deliver tiny electrical impulses up through your feet via electrodes on the footpads.
The impulses cause micro contractions in your muscles you don’t even feel, but they have the effect of stimulating circulation and lowering inflammation.
Only certain models of foot and leg circulation machines feature EMS technology, so you’ll want to decide if it’s important to you.
The 10 Best Foot Massagers For Circulation in 2023
To give you a comparative look at what’s on the market, I’ve picked 10 of the best foot and leg circulation machines all with great reputations but differing features.
OSITO Electrical Foot Massager and Nerve Stimulator
The EMS foot and leg circulation machine from OSITO doesn’t provide vibration or massage, but it delivers the same benefits through EMS, or electrical muscle stimulation, causing the muscles to contract as if exercising.
This stimulates the nerves in your feet, warms the muscles and increases circulation.
This unit is ideal for someone with diabetic neuropathy, and several diabetic users have reported improvements using the unit.
It’s not designed for muscle tension as much as for restoring healthy blood flow.
The footpads can heat up to warm the soles of your feet, further stimulating the nerves and opening your blood vessels.
OSITO is a reputable brand that offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on the product and a lifetime limited warranty.
This unit comes with a TENS unit, with 4 TENS pads. Similar to EMS, TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), where the pads you place on your skin deliver small electrical impulses to stimulate nerves and circulation.
You can place these 4 pads anywhere on your body while you use the foot machine simultaneously.
MedMassager Speed Foot Massager
The MMF06 speed foot massager from MedMassager features a flat deck for you to rest your feet on while sitting in a chair.
The deck has small ridges for gripping the soles of your feet so that there’s no slipping.
The device is FDA-certified for therapeutic use, and it’s helpful for anyone with circulation issues.
If your feet can’t seem to stay warm through the winter, you can warm up your feet with this massager.
It doesn’t have a heat feature, but it’s so effective at boosting circulation and engaging muscle tissue that it will actually warm up your feet.
The best thing about this device is its vibrational range. The massager can vibrate (in an oscillating motion) at your choice of 11 different speeds.
This gives you control over the intensity of vibration, ranging from 1,000 to 3,700 rpm.
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty and powerful device then the Medmassager is a great pick.
That being said, it is on the expensive side, however, if you are sure that vibration therapy is for you then the Medmassager is likely to be the one for you.
REVITIVE Circulation Booster
The REVITIVE circulation booster is a device with multiple patents that features unique technology for restoring circulation and promoting tissue repair.
It relies on a special patented type of EMS the company calls wide-pulse muscle stimulation waveforms, which target muscles in a way that specifically boosts oxygenated blood flow.
It’s intended to use while seated, with the device on the ground.
Its patented IsoRocker design lets the device rock forward and backward beneath your feet, recruiting muscles in order to warm them up and boost circulation, as well as to stretch and strengthen them.
It’s FDA-approved and has been reported in thousands of customer reviews to relieve pain and help with circulation problems.
Like the OSITO, REVITIVE’s device also comes with a TENS unit for use alongside the foot machine.
The downside to this device is that it doesn’t offer vibration.
Some users with diabetic neuropathy reported its intensity isn’t high enough for getting adequate pain relief.
Some may benefit more from a device with more massage features for the feet, but if your focus is strengthening your ankles and lower legs to reduce pain, then the REVITIVE circulation booster is great for you.
Daiwa Felicity Foot Vibration Massager FootVibe Pro
The DAIWA Felicity FootVibe Pro works to boost circulation, speed muscle recovery and ease pain by combining vibration with infrared light and acupressure.
The footpad can incline for use sitting or laying down.
Choose from 8 levels of infrared light and 12 vibration speeds to switch up the intensity. The wide range of settings makes it versatile.
People with diabetic neuropathy can benefit from the lower settings, while those with muscle tightness or plantar fasciitis can benefit from higher intensities.
The device is energy-efficient and lightweight enough to carry around easily.
Unlike other circulation machines, the FootVibe Pro features infrared light therapy, which is proven to increase oxygen supply, reduce pain, relieve inflammation and speed up tissue repair [1].
It also has small acupressure nodes that stick out on the footpads. As the device vibrates, you’ll feel the round nodes beneath the soles of your feet.
While this is great if you’re looking for a device offering reflexology, it’s too intense and painful on the feet for some.
SNAILAX Vibration Foot Massager
The Snailax vibration foot massager is an effective foot massager that’s simple and easy to use.
It offers two levels of heat and three levels of intensity.
You can use it on your calves and your back also if you feel that other parts of your body need a shakeup.
What I like most about this device is its design.
It doesn’t look as ugly as some of the other foot circulation massagers and has nice ergonomics.
Specifically, the control panel on the device can be detached and used as a remote.
When you’re done using it as a remote it magnetically snaps back into place solving that annoying issue of losing the remote.
It also comes with a washable dust cover which is a nice touch too.
Overall, the Snailax vibration foot massager is a well-rounded machine that offers the basics at an affordable price.
If there’s one negative about this massager it doesn’t have as many speed levels or power as some of the more expensive devices such as the Medmassager.
That being said, the Medmassager is a lot more expensive so if you don’t need a lot of power or speed levels then the Snailax is a good option.
It also comes with a 30-day return warranty so you can always try it out and see if it works for you before committing.
RENPHO Vibration Foot Massager
The Renpho foot massager is a simple but effective foot massager that works through vibration.
The powerful vibration on this sturdy device is enough to do a lot.
Sitting with the foot deck under your feet and the device on the floor, you can feel the vibrations all the way up to your thighs as it vibrates.
This device has 20-speed settings, so there should be enough for you to find the right setting for your feet.
It also comes with a remote so you don’t have to bend down every time you want to control the massager. The remote isn’t quite as well designed as the Snailax model where the remote magnetically attaches back to the main unit.
However, the main unique selling point of this foot circulation machine is that it also has massage rollers to massage the bottom of your feet.
You can use this feature at the same time as the vibration feature.
Although this is a nice touch, I don’t feel the rollers did much for my feet. So don’t expect this device to totally loosen up the soles of your feet as well.
If you want this device just for vibration therapy then this massager should work well, however, you may be better off with the Snailax model.
The Snailax model has a better-designed remote, dust cover and comes at a lower price.
That being said, the Renpho model has more power and more intensity levels to choose from.
Pure Wave CM7 Cordless Foot Massager
The Pure Wave CM7 is a cordless hand-held massager you can use to massage your feet with pinpoint accuracy.
It has 6 different attachment heads that are different sizes and shapes for different muscles and helps vary the intensities.
Whether you need to massage the sides or inner arches of your feet, you can do so by choosing the right attachment head for the device and setting it to the speed that feels right.
Whereas people with diabetic neuropathy or deep vein thrombosis would better benefit from a device that vibrates under their feet, the Pure Wave CM7 is helpful if you experience plantar fasciitis, calf tightness or other problems involving muscle tightness.
It provides a vibration you can combine with pinpoint pressure on a specific muscle or tendon that’s causing you pain.
It’s also not purely just a foot massager, but can be used all over the body.
If you are looking for a massager which is versatile and light in weight, the Pure Wave could be the best option for you.
LifePro VibraCare Foot Massager
Comparable to the Medmassager, the VibraCare foot massager machine provides a powerful vibration beneath your feet, where they sit on a sturdy deck.
Like the FootVibe Pro, this model can be inclined to use on your calf muscles while sitting or laying down.
Whereas the Medmassager has 11-speed settings, the LifePro foot massager has 30, going up to 3,600 rpm.
Despite the heavy-duty power, the model is designed to be quiet.
This model is less expensive than the Medmassager, so if you’re concerned about not finding the right intensity level, this purchase could be a great buy.
There’s a remote control that’s meant to make it easier to turn on and off and alter the settings.
Some buyers find the unit slightly noisy, however, most are extremely happy and have found the unit to be extremely effective.
If you do decide to purchase the VibraCare, your purchase comes with an impressive lifetime guarantee.
Portable EMS Foot Massager
Like the OSITO and REVITIVE devices, this foot circulator works its magic through bioelectric massage alone, without physically vibrating or applying pressure.
This massager works similarly to other EMS units with footpads, but its unique design makes it more of a lightweight mat than a machine.
Weighing less than 1 pound, it’s the easiest device on this list to move around and travel with.
If massage devices that knead and roll your feet feel too painful for you, then a device like this one is ideal.
It helps with medical conditions associated with poor circulation, and the electric pulses are able to travel up your legs and through your entire body.
With its noiseless operation and portability, you can easily take this device to work to stimulate circulation while you sit.
That being said, I personally prefer the foot massagers that offer vibration and EMS features. You get more power and a vibrational massage that invigorates the feet and legs more effectively than a massager which only offers EMS.
If your feet feel very sensitive to a little vibration then you may want to consider this foot massager as it’s much gentler than the other types of massagers.
Another advantage is that this massager is very cheap and worth a try if you’re unsure which massager to get.
AccuRelief Ultimate Foot Circulator with Remote
The Accurelief foot circulator is a device you place on the floor and rest the soles of your feet on the footpads.
Size isn’t an issue since the footpads are large enough to accommodate all.
It works to reduce inflammation and improve circulation through 3-channel electric stimulators on the footpads, sending electric pulses up through the feet.
This device is not overcomplicated like others, as it’s designed for anyone to easily use with the remote control.
You get 15 pre-set programs on the device so you can choose your intensity level.
Along with the device, you get 4 electrode pads to put on various parts of the body for circulation and pain relief.
Although this device only features EMS therapy without any massage features like vibration, users have seen improvements after use for conditions including plantar fasciitis and diabetic neuropathy.
If you need better circulation due to a medical condition, this device can help.
If you need to massage your feet and calves to work out muscle tightness, then you’ll require something else.
Best Foot Massager for Circulation: My Recommendation
The best vibrating foot and leg circulation machine is the Medmassager because it’s durable and heavy-duty, and can help with a wide range of pain-related problems.
The most impressive feature of the Medmassager is how powerful it is as well as the range of different speed levels it offers.
If you want to boost your foot circulation using vibration technology then you’re bound to find the right setting for you on the Medmassager.
Best EMS Foot Massager
If you don’t wear a pacemaker and want the benefits of foot massage without the squeezing, kneading, vibrating and noise that comes with it then the Revitive Medic foot massager may be worth a go.
The device is also cordless and rechargeable, so if you hate wires this is a great choice.
If you need better foot and leg circulation but can’t use an EMS device because you wear a pacemaker or implanted cardioverter defibrillator, this is your most therapeutic option.
It relieves foot pain and restores blood circulation by sending electric pulses that dilate blood vessels and reduce inflammation throughout your body.
Choosing the right therapeutic equipment for your home depends on understanding your needs and comparing them to the features of various products.
When you purchase a new massage device, be sure to read the instructions carefully.
If you have a medical condition or need advice, be sure to consult with a physical therapist or medical professional.
Other Types of Tools for Massage and Circulation
There are other tools for massage and boosting circulation that may also be useful to you, depending on your condition.
Here are the different types of massage devices you might consider:
Shiatsu Foot Massagers
Shiatsu foot massagers are electric devices with rollers that knead your feet. You place your feet inside, turn on the device and select your massage setting.
If you have tight feet the kneading and rolling action of a shiatsu massage can help.
Related: The Best Foot Massagers
Some shiatsu foot massagers also massage your calves.
Related: The Best Foot and Calf Massagers
Foot Spa Machines
Foot spa machines combine the benefits of a vibration massage with the relaxing effects of heated moving water.
Some also feature oxygen bubbles and massage rollers for kneading the soles of your feet.
One benefit of foot spas is you can add Epsom salt to the water for enhanced anti-inflammatory benefits sure to relieve tired, achy feet.
Related: The Best Foot Spas
Leg Air Compression Massagers
Leg air compression massagers eliminate inflammation, boost blood flow and stimulate lymphatic circulation.
They work by wrapping around your feet and calves and then they fill with air to apply compression and squeeze your feet and calves.
Even though there’s no kneading or rolling involved, the squeezing alone stimulates enough circulation to relieve pain and fatigue from achy feet and legs.
Related: The Best Leg Massagers
FAQs
This section answers some frequently asked questions regarding foot and leg massagers for circulation.
What Are Foot and Leg Circulation Machines?
A foot and leg circulation machine is a device that vibrates or sends electrical impulses up through your legs via the soles of your feet.
Typically, you rest the bottoms of your feet on the machine’s footpads, turn it on, and it goes to work breaking up tension and activating muscles.
As your muscles warm up, the blood vessels in them dilate so that more blood can flow through them, delivering oxygen and necessary nutrients [1].
Benefits of Using a Foot and Leg Circulation Machine
A circulation machine’s mechanism of action is simple, yet the benefits are numerous.
By restoring blood where circulation has been cut off, a leg circulation machine has a profound impact on your overall health.
Relieves Foot and Leg Fatigue
Your feet take the full brunt of your weight against the ground each day, which can cause tension to build up in the muscles and connective tissues of your feet, ankles and knees.
A good foot massage restores your circulation and releases tension, you feel lighter, rejuvenated and more energized.
Helps with Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy is a complication that can develop in diabetics, characterized by pain, tingling and numbness in your feet and legs.
Foot and leg circulation machines stimulate the nerves in your legs and feet, reducing symptoms of diabetic neuropathy as a result.
Helps Heal Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a repetitive strain injury that causes inflammation and pain in the heel and arch of your foot.
By increasing blood supply and reducing tightness in the fibrous tissue affected by plantar fasciitis, a foot and leg circulation machine can ease symptoms of plantar fasciitis and promote healing.
May Relieve Headaches
Headaches are sometimes caused by poor circulation.
By tackling the problem at your feet and legs, you send more blood up to your head.
Since the soles of your feet are filled with reflexology trigger points, stimulating them is thought to relieve headaches.
Speeds Muscle Recovery and Connective Tissue Repair
Whether you lift weights or do long-distance running, working out requires recovery time for tissue repair.
Increasing circulation flushes out toxins and gives tissues the oxygen and nutrients they need.
In effect, a foot and leg circulation machine speeds up the body’s natural recovery process, so that you can build muscle faster and work out again sooner.
Helps with Bunions
Bunions are painful, but the vibration of a foot circulation machine can improve them by relaxing and softening the tissue in your feet.
