As someone who spends long hours at a call center, I often experience tight, knotted muscle pain along the left side of my spine, extending into my neck and shoulder. This persistent discomfort can make it challenging to relax or sleep. I’ve tried a range of solutions, from costly one- and two-hour deep tissue massages to budget-friendly vibrating back massagers, shiatsu massage chairs, chiropractic adjustments, and TENS unit devices. I’ve exhausted various over-the-counter medications and holistic remedies for inflammation, yet nothing provided lasting relief that justified the expense.

After getting married, I could no longer afford regular chiropractic visits or monthly massages that only managed the pain without eliminating it. I began researching online and reading numerous reviews, ultimately narrowing my options down to this device and the Thumper Percussive Massager. The Jeanie Rub resembled something an old chiropractor had used on me in the past, which had provided a few days of relief. I decided to go with the variable speed model despite feeling hesitant about the price, hopeful that it would be a worthwhile investment compared to spending over $120 monthly on massages and chiropractic care.

The device arrived promptly, and upon opening it, I found it to be larger and heavier than expected, yet solidly constructed. I quickly plugged it in and switched it on. The device began to rotate in a manner my wife described as similar to a car buffer. I first tested it on my leg, then on my brother’s back, and finally on my own back, where I experienced sheer bliss.

Unlike other massage devices, this one genuinely penetrated my stiff muscles and provided deep relief. I felt my muscles relax almost instantly. It has substantial power; typically, I need intense deep tissue pressure, but the oscillating 4200 RPM action effectively targets deep tissue without excessive pressure. I’m glad I opted for the variable speed model, as I favored the faster settings, while others preferred lower RPMs.

I love showcasing the Jeanie to guests; its uniqueness always elicits a delightful “aaahhhh” as muscles relax and stress dissipates. Common reactions include “I want one!” and “That’s awesome!” The best part about this device is its consistent effectiveness; within 10 to 15 minutes, I’m pain-free for a day or two.

I soon found myself asking, “What else can this Jeanie rub do?” I’ve used it on my scalp for a relaxing massage, my face and jaw to relieve tension, and on my legs, abs, chest, and feet—it’s particularly nice on the feet. The more I use it, the better I become at selecting the right speed and applying appropriate pressure and movement for optimal relaxation.

Now, for a couple of negatives. After about 10 minutes of use, it can make my back feel itchy, almost unbearably so at first. It took some time to get used to it, and my wife initially disliked it, but eventually, I convinced her to try it long enough to overcome the itching sensation. Even now, she doesn’t enjoy it as much as I do, but most of the guys who have tried it have liked it. Personally, I think the itch is a small price to pay for relief, and it diminishes with continued use.

Additionally, it’s bulky and quite heavy. I would love to use it twice daily (once in the morning to loosen up, and again at night to relax), but it’s challenging to use on myself, especially for my back, so I need assistance. I even took it on vacation, and the TSA searched my bag, likely finding it suspicious. My wife also dislikes the vibrating sensation it produces, which bothers her hands, making her reluctant to use it on me, and I feel a bit guilty asking her to help.

Ultimately, this device has significantly helped, and in my opinion, it’s worth the price tag. Since getting it, I haven’t visited the chiropractor once. I’m still considering saving for the Thumper Massager, hoping it will be easier to use independently and that my wife will prefer it over this one.

With that background, I want to highlight three things that have truly saved me. First, my Tempur-Pedic mattress has been a lifesaver for finding comfortable sleeping positions. Before I started pain medication, it was the only place where I could find relief. Second, the McKenzie method has helped significantly; it’s akin to a yoga Sun Salutation, or for those familiar with yoga, it resembles doing a push-up while keeping your pelvis and feet on the ground, looking up at the ceiling. Lastly, my Jeanie Rub Massager has been a game-changer! This device is AMAZING! I’m so grateful for it!

I opted for the variable speed model with attachments because I wanted flexibility. If you’re considering whether to get the single speed or variable, go for the variable. It’s worth the extra cost, especially depending on the body part you’re targeting. For those lean folks, the bony areas can be sensitive at higher speeds. When working on thighs, glutes, and legs, crank it up! Personally, I prefer it on high the entire time, but many I’ve used it on enjoy varying the intensity based on the area.

After suffering for about six weeks, I got my Jeanie Rub Massager just before attending Dragon*Con in Atlanta over Labor Day weekend. This convention spans four days and involves a ton of walking among thousands of attendees. For someone with severe sciatic pain, carrying a heavy camera bag all day was a challenge. By the time I returned to my hotel, I could barely drag myself to my room. The only thing keeping me going was the thought of using my Jeanie Rub Massager. My sister, best friend, and I took turns using the machine, and I’m sure our neighbors thought we were up to something scandalous with all the moaning coming from our room!

*** Update: It’s been about 10-11 weeks since I got my Jeanie Rub Massager, and I feel so much better. I can’t credit everything to this machine, but it definitely helped me through the worst moments. I still have some localized sciatic pain, but a session with this beauty makes my whole day brighter. If you’re hesitant about the price, I completely understand—I bought this while unemployed and with limited funds. I needed a miracle, and I believe I found the best mechanical miracle out there. Get it; you won’t regret it!