In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsHow Do Stress Balls Work?What Healthcare Providers Want You to KnowHow We SelectedWhat to Look For in a Stress BallHow to Use a Stress BallOur ExpertsWhy Trust Verywell Health

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

How Do Stress Balls Work?

What Healthcare Providers Want You to Know

How We Selected

What to Look For in a Stress Ball

How to Use a Stress Ball

Our Experts

Why Trust Verywell Health

Verywell Health / Kevin Liang

Stressball

Many factors—from genetics to your environment—can cause increased anxiety, feelings of restlessness, and rumination. Fidget toys, such as fidget spinners or stress balls, are thought to relieve stress and distract individuals from boredom. As such,using a stress ball to expel energy and calm fidgeting might be helpful for anyone who struggles with stress and anxiety.When a person is stressed, frustrated, or overwhelmed, they may sometimes want to squeeze something, saysLisa McCrohan, MA, LCSW-C, SEP, a Somatic Experiencing Psychotherapist, Integrative Coach, and author. This is where stress balls can help. They’re also helpful for anyone looking tostrengthen their gripor recover from a hand injury.To find the best stress balls on the market, we interviewed a licensed mental health counselor to learn what features to look for. Then, we researched the top picks and came up with our final list of the best balls for stress relief, strengthening, and stretching your hands. We selected picks based onsensory features, quality, and value.How Do Stress Balls Work?Stress can often manifest itself as tension in the body.When someone is stressed, the muscles in the feet, toes, legs, arms, hands, fingers, or jaw tend to tighten, says McCrohan. Stress balls work because theyallow tension (the squeezing action) to happen, whichsignals the nervous system to move out of a state of stress. The physical action of squeezing a stress ball can relieve tension and expel nervous energy.What Healthcare Providers Want You to KnowMaterials:The inside of a stress ball depends on the type and manufacturer. Stress balls can be filled with foam, gel, silicone, natural grains, or other durable, squeezable materials.Safety:Stress balls are generally safe to use for relieving tension and anxiety or for strengthening hand and wrist muscles. If you have a chronic or repetitive use injury in your hands or joints, it’s best to get guidance from your doctor before using a stress ball.Anxiety management:If anxiety management is the primary goal, then a stress ball with multiple sensory features like scent or colors will help calm the brain and nervous system faster and more effectively than the resistance alone.Our Top PicksBest Color:Power Your Fun Arrgh Rainbow Giant Stress Ball at Amazon$9Jump to ReviewBest Scented:Lavender Luvies Scented Stress Balls 3-Pack at Amazon$26Jump to ReviewBest for Small Hands:SALEMindPanda Empowering Gel Stress Ball Bundle at Amazon$27$21Jump to ReviewBest Durable:Serenilite Stress Balls at Amazon$18Jump to ReviewBest for Physical Therapy:GOZATO Squeeze Ball for Hand Therapy at Amazon$13Jump to ReviewBest for Temperature Therapy:Bed Buddy Store Stress Ball and Grip Strength Trainer at Amazon$6Jump to ReviewBest for Kids:FIVOENDAR Fun Face Stress Balls at Amazon$19Jump to Review

Many factors—from genetics to your environment—can cause increased anxiety, feelings of restlessness, and rumination. Fidget toys, such as fidget spinners or stress balls, are thought to relieve stress and distract individuals from boredom. As such,using a stress ball to expel energy and calm fidgeting might be helpful for anyone who struggles with stress and anxiety.When a person is stressed, frustrated, or overwhelmed, they may sometimes want to squeeze something, saysLisa McCrohan, MA, LCSW-C, SEP, a Somatic Experiencing Psychotherapist, Integrative Coach, and author. This is where stress balls can help. They’re also helpful for anyone looking tostrengthen their gripor recover from a hand injury.

To find the best stress balls on the market, we interviewed a licensed mental health counselor to learn what features to look for. Then, we researched the top picks and came up with our final list of the best balls for stress relief, strengthening, and stretching your hands. We selected picks based onsensory features, quality, and value.

Stress can often manifest itself as tension in the body.When someone is stressed, the muscles in the feet, toes, legs, arms, hands, fingers, or jaw tend to tighten, says McCrohan. Stress balls work because theyallow tension (the squeezing action) to happen, whichsignals the nervous system to move out of a state of stress. The physical action of squeezing a stress ball can relieve tension and expel nervous energy.

Our Top PicksBest Color:Power Your Fun Arrgh Rainbow Giant Stress Ball at Amazon$9Jump to ReviewBest Scented:Lavender Luvies Scented Stress Balls 3-Pack at Amazon$26Jump to ReviewBest for Small Hands:SALEMindPanda Empowering Gel Stress Ball Bundle at Amazon$27$21Jump to ReviewBest Durable:Serenilite Stress Balls at Amazon$18Jump to ReviewBest for Physical Therapy:GOZATO Squeeze Ball for Hand Therapy at Amazon$13Jump to ReviewBest for Temperature Therapy:Bed Buddy Store Stress Ball and Grip Strength Trainer at Amazon$6Jump to ReviewBest for Kids:FIVOENDAR Fun Face Stress Balls at Amazon$19Jump to Review

Best Color:Power Your Fun Arrgh Rainbow Giant Stress Ball at Amazon$9Jump to ReviewBest Scented:Lavender Luvies Scented Stress Balls 3-Pack at Amazon$26Jump to ReviewBest for Small Hands:SALEMindPanda Empowering Gel Stress Ball Bundle at Amazon$27$21Jump to ReviewBest Durable:Serenilite Stress Balls at Amazon$18Jump to ReviewBest for Physical Therapy:GOZATO Squeeze Ball for Hand Therapy at Amazon$13Jump to ReviewBest for Temperature Therapy:Bed Buddy Store Stress Ball and Grip Strength Trainer at Amazon$6Jump to ReviewBest for Kids:FIVOENDAR Fun Face Stress Balls at Amazon$19Jump to Review

Best Color:Power Your Fun Arrgh Rainbow Giant Stress Ball at Amazon$9Jump to Review

Best Color:Power Your Fun Arrgh Rainbow Giant Stress Ball at Amazon$9

Best Color:

Best Scented:Lavender Luvies Scented Stress Balls 3-Pack at Amazon$26Jump to Review

Best Scented:Lavender Luvies Scented Stress Balls 3-Pack at Amazon$26

Best Scented:

Best for Small Hands:SALEMindPanda Empowering Gel Stress Ball Bundle at Amazon$27$21Jump to Review

Best for Small Hands:SALEMindPanda Empowering Gel Stress Ball Bundle at Amazon$27$21

Best for Small Hands:

SALE

Best Durable:Serenilite Stress Balls at Amazon$18Jump to Review

Best Durable:Serenilite Stress Balls at Amazon$18

Best Durable:

Best for Physical Therapy:GOZATO Squeeze Ball for Hand Therapy at Amazon$13Jump to Review

Best for Physical Therapy:GOZATO Squeeze Ball for Hand Therapy at Amazon$13

Best for Physical Therapy:

Best for Temperature Therapy:Bed Buddy Store Stress Ball and Grip Strength Trainer at Amazon$6Jump to Review

Best for Temperature Therapy:Bed Buddy Store Stress Ball and Grip Strength Trainer at Amazon$6

Best for Temperature Therapy:

Best for Kids:FIVOENDAR Fun Face Stress Balls at Amazon$19Jump to Review

Best for Kids:FIVOENDAR Fun Face Stress Balls at Amazon$19

Best for Kids:

Best ColorPower Your Fun Arrgh Rainbow Giant Stress BallPHOTO: Amazon$9 at Amazon

Best ColorPower Your Fun Arrgh Rainbow Giant Stress Ball

Best Color

Power Your Fun Arrgh Rainbow Giant Stress Ball

PHOTO: Amazon

Power Your Fun Arrgh Rainbow Giant Stress Ball

$9 at Amazon

ProsGood for kids and adultsCan be washed in waterGreat customer service and refund policyConsToo large for someThey could possibly burst or leak

ProsGood for kids and adultsCan be washed in waterGreat customer service and refund policy

Good for kids and adults

Can be washed in water

Great customer service and refund policy

ConsToo large for someThey could possibly burst or leak

Too large for some

They could possibly burst or leak

Key Specs:

Items in set:1 |External material:Rubber |Resistance:N/A |Fill:Gel

Why We Recommend It

Thegentle ombre of rainbow colorsandlarger sizemake this stress toy a good option for extra frustrating days when you needphysical and emotional stress relief. Whether you need to vent, let out aggression, or keep both hands busy at once (the5-inch diameteris big enough to keep both hands occupied), this is a great option.

Keep in Mind

It may be too large for some hands. Also, it could possibly leak or burst.

Best ScentedLavender Luvies Scented Stress Balls 3-PackPHOTO: Amazon$26 at AmazonProsGood for aromatherapyMultiple color optionsSoft and comfortable exteriorConsAll are the same resistanceMaterial may stretch over timeKey Specs:Items in set:3 |External material:Spandex |Resistance:N/A |Fill:Dried Lavender flowersWhy We Recommend ItSmells can have a direct effect on mood. Research shows that lavender has acalming influenceover brain waves and neurotransmitters.These stress balls arehandmadeandfilled with dried lavender flowers. Gentle squeezing helps release the scent. They can be smelled, squeezed, and even tossed around in the air due to theirlightweightandsoft texture.Keep in MindKeep in mind the ball’s exterior is made of cotton, and the seams may come loose with intensive, frequent use. Fortunately, the balls come in a set of three, so you’ll have a few backups in the event that you need to restitch the seams.

Best ScentedLavender Luvies Scented Stress Balls 3-PackPHOTO: Amazon$26 at Amazon

Best ScentedLavender Luvies Scented Stress Balls 3-Pack

Best Scented

Lavender Luvies Scented Stress Balls 3-Pack

Lavender Luvies Scented Stress Balls 3-Pack

$26 at Amazon

ProsGood for aromatherapyMultiple color optionsSoft and comfortable exteriorConsAll are the same resistanceMaterial may stretch over time

ProsGood for aromatherapyMultiple color optionsSoft and comfortable exterior

Good for aromatherapy

Multiple color options

Soft and comfortable exterior

ConsAll are the same resistanceMaterial may stretch over time

All are the same resistance

Material may stretch over time

Items in set:3 |External material:Spandex |Resistance:N/A |Fill:Dried Lavender flowers

Smells can have a direct effect on mood. Research shows that lavender has acalming influenceover brain waves and neurotransmitters.These stress balls arehandmadeandfilled with dried lavender flowers. Gentle squeezing helps release the scent. They can be smelled, squeezed, and even tossed around in the air due to theirlightweightandsoft texture.

Keep in mind the ball’s exterior is made of cotton, and the seams may come loose with intensive, frequent use. Fortunately, the balls come in a set of three, so you’ll have a few backups in the event that you need to restitch the seams.

Best for Small HandsMindPanda Empowering Gel Stress Ball BundlePHOTO: Amazon$27$21 at AmazonView on Mindpanda.comProsCompact case includedMultiple resistance levelsLatex- and BPA-freeConsScent may be too strongResistance level not specifiedKey Specs:Items in set:3 |External material:Lycra |Resistance:Soft, medium, hard |Fill:Thermoplastic gelWhy We Recommend ItMind Panda stress ballscome in packs of three, each with a different resistance level and scent. There are also empowering thoughts like “Purpose fuels passion” and “Love yourself” printed on them. Themultiple resistance optionsallow the customer to choose the most comfortable and soothing fit. A hand-strengthening exercise guide comes with each pack.Perfect for kids or adults whose hands are on the smaller side, thisthree-packis a great option forfocused strength trainingor mindless fidgeting to helpfight boredom or anxietyduring long meetings, work assignments, or any time you need stress relief.Keep in MindThe scent may be a little strong for some, and they don’t specify the resistance levels.

Best for Small HandsMindPanda Empowering Gel Stress Ball BundlePHOTO: Amazon$27$21 at AmazonView on Mindpanda.com

Best for Small HandsMindPanda Empowering Gel Stress Ball Bundle

Best for Small Hands

MindPanda Empowering Gel Stress Ball Bundle

MindPanda Empowering Gel Stress Ball Bundle

$27$21 at AmazonView on Mindpanda.com

ProsCompact case includedMultiple resistance levelsLatex- and BPA-freeConsScent may be too strongResistance level not specified

ProsCompact case includedMultiple resistance levelsLatex- and BPA-free

Compact case included

Multiple resistance levels

Latex- and BPA-free

ConsScent may be too strongResistance level not specified

Scent may be too strong

Resistance level not specified

Items in set:3 |External material:Lycra |Resistance:Soft, medium, hard |Fill:Thermoplastic gel

Mind Panda stress ballscome in packs of three, each with a different resistance level and scent. There are also empowering thoughts like “Purpose fuels passion” and “Love yourself” printed on them. Themultiple resistance optionsallow the customer to choose the most comfortable and soothing fit. A hand-strengthening exercise guide comes with each pack.

Perfect for kids or adults whose hands are on the smaller side, thisthree-packis a great option forfocused strength trainingor mindless fidgeting to helpfight boredom or anxietyduring long meetings, work assignments, or any time you need stress relief.

The scent may be a little strong for some, and they don’t specify the resistance levels.

Best DurableSerenilite Stress BallsPHOTO: Amazon$18 at AmazonView on Serenilite.comProsDurable exteriorLifetime warrantyGood for hand therapyConsOn the smaller sideResistance levels not specifiedKey Specs:Items in set:3 |Material:Parachute nylon |Resistance:N/A |Fill:GelWhy We Recommend ItMade withhigh-quality materials, theseergonomic stress ballsfeature atear-resistant gel coreandnon-stick fabricforultimate comfort. The design combinescolor therapyandphysical therapyto strengthen hands and wrists whilecalming anxieties and stress. Made for both kids and adults, this stress toy can handle your most frustrating days. The ball’s exterior is made of anon-stick fabricthat feels great in your hand and doesn’t get sticky.Keep in MindThe balls are quite firm and have the same resistance, so if you’re looking for multiple resistance levels, check out the Stress Less 3-Pack or Gozato Squeeze Ball Set.

Best DurableSerenilite Stress BallsPHOTO: Amazon$18 at AmazonView on Serenilite.com

Best DurableSerenilite Stress Balls

Best Durable

Serenilite Stress Balls

Serenilite Stress Balls 3-Pack

$18 at AmazonView on Serenilite.com

ProsDurable exteriorLifetime warrantyGood for hand therapyConsOn the smaller sideResistance levels not specified

ProsDurable exteriorLifetime warrantyGood for hand therapy

Durable exterior

Lifetime warranty

Good for hand therapy

ConsOn the smaller sideResistance levels not specified

On the smaller side

Resistance levels not specified

Items in set:3 |Material:Parachute nylon |Resistance:N/A |Fill:Gel

Made withhigh-quality materials, theseergonomic stress ballsfeature atear-resistant gel coreandnon-stick fabricforultimate comfort. The design combinescolor therapyandphysical therapyto strengthen hands and wrists whilecalming anxieties and stress. Made for both kids and adults, this stress toy can handle your most frustrating days. The ball’s exterior is made of anon-stick fabricthat feels great in your hand and doesn’t get sticky.

The balls are quite firm and have the same resistance, so if you’re looking for multiple resistance levels, check out the Stress Less 3-Pack or Gozato Squeeze Ball Set.

Best for Physical TherapyGOZATO Squeeze Ball for Hand TherapyPHOTO: Amazon$13 at AmazonProsErgonomic egg shapeMultiple resistance levels100 percent satisfaction guaranteeConsSticky exteriorKey Specs:Items in set:3 |Material:Parachute nylon |Resistance:22-88 pounds |Fill:Thermoplastic rubberWhy We Recommend ItFor hand, wrist, or finger rehabilitation, a stress ball may be an optimal tool for physical therapy. TheGozato squeeze ball setincludesfive stress ballswithmultiple resistance levels. Each resistance level—from extra soft (22 pounds) to extra firm (88 pounds)—corresponds with a different ball color, making it easy to find the one you need. Theergonomic shapehelps with therapy exercises and makes itcomfortable to hold.Each ball is made withthermoplastic, hypoallergenic, recyclable, and latex-free rubber. Plus, the set comes with a cloth bag, making them easy to take on the go. A great option for hand rehab, arthritis patients, or physical therapy.Keep in MindThe exterior may feel sticky, which may not be ideal for some.

Best for Physical TherapyGOZATO Squeeze Ball for Hand TherapyPHOTO: Amazon$13 at Amazon

Best for Physical TherapyGOZATO Squeeze Ball for Hand Therapy

Best for Physical Therapy

GOZATO Squeeze Ball for Hand Therapy

GOZATO Squeeze Ball for Hand Therapy

$13 at Amazon

ProsErgonomic egg shapeMultiple resistance levels100 percent satisfaction guaranteeConsSticky exterior

ProsErgonomic egg shapeMultiple resistance levels100 percent satisfaction guarantee

Ergonomic egg shape

100 percent satisfaction guarantee

ConsSticky exterior

Sticky exterior

Items in set:3 |Material:Parachute nylon |Resistance:22-88 pounds |Fill:Thermoplastic rubber

For hand, wrist, or finger rehabilitation, a stress ball may be an optimal tool for physical therapy. TheGozato squeeze ball setincludesfive stress ballswithmultiple resistance levels. Each resistance level—from extra soft (22 pounds) to extra firm (88 pounds)—corresponds with a different ball color, making it easy to find the one you need. Theergonomic shapehelps with therapy exercises and makes itcomfortable to hold.

Each ball is made withthermoplastic, hypoallergenic, recyclable, and latex-free rubber. Plus, the set comes with a cloth bag, making them easy to take on the go. A great option for hand rehab, arthritis patients, or physical therapy.

The exterior may feel sticky, which may not be ideal for some.

Best for Temperature TherapyBed Buddy Store Stress Ball and Grip Strength TrainerPHOTO: Amazon$6 at AmazonProsCan be heated or chilledFinger loop for optimal gripFilled with natural grainsConsDoesn’t stay warm for longBall doesn’t compress wellKey Specs:Items in set:3 |Material:Parachute nylon |Resistance:N/A |Fill:Natural grainWhy We Recommend ItHeat or temperature therapy is designed toimprove blood flow and circulation—soothing discomfort and easing muscle pain. The temperature may provide a multi-dimensional approach to physical therapy practices in conjunction with the movements used to squeeze a stress ball.TheBed Buddy Storestress ball can beheated or cooleddepending on your needs. Filled with natural grains, itprovides resistancefor squeezing and holding in your hand.The ball iscoated in a soft polyestermaterial with a small finger loop to keep it from rolling out of your hand. To heat it, place the ball in the microwave for 30 seconds. To cool the stress ball, the brand recommends placing it in the freezer for 30 minutes.Keep in MindThe ball doesn’t stay warm for long, nor does it compress well.

Best for Temperature TherapyBed Buddy Store Stress Ball and Grip Strength TrainerPHOTO: Amazon$6 at Amazon

Best for Temperature TherapyBed Buddy Store Stress Ball and Grip Strength Trainer

Best for Temperature Therapy

Bed Buddy Store Stress Ball and Grip Strength Trainer

Bed Buddy Store Stress Ball and Grip Strength Trainer

$6 at Amazon

ProsCan be heated or chilledFinger loop for optimal gripFilled with natural grainsConsDoesn’t stay warm for longBall doesn’t compress well

ProsCan be heated or chilledFinger loop for optimal gripFilled with natural grains

Can be heated or chilled

Finger loop for optimal grip

Filled with natural grains

ConsDoesn’t stay warm for longBall doesn’t compress well

Doesn’t stay warm for long

Ball doesn’t compress well

Items in set:3 |Material:Parachute nylon |Resistance:N/A |Fill:Natural grain

Heat or temperature therapy is designed toimprove blood flow and circulation—soothing discomfort and easing muscle pain. The temperature may provide a multi-dimensional approach to physical therapy practices in conjunction with the movements used to squeeze a stress ball.TheBed Buddy Storestress ball can beheated or cooleddepending on your needs. Filled with natural grains, itprovides resistancefor squeezing and holding in your hand.

The ball iscoated in a soft polyestermaterial with a small finger loop to keep it from rolling out of your hand. To heat it, place the ball in the microwave for 30 seconds. To cool the stress ball, the brand recommends placing it in the freezer for 30 minutes.

The ball doesn’t stay warm for long, nor does it compress well.

Best for KidsFIVOENDAR Fun Face Stress BallsPHOTO: Amazon$19 at AmazonProsLarge varietyGood for party favorsSized well for kidsConsStrong odor reportedKey Specs:Items in set:24 |Material:Foam |Resistance:N/A |Fill:FoamWhy We Recommend ItStaying stressed and frustrated with a funny-face stress ball helping you out is difficult. There are24 bright, funny facesto choose from in this pack. At 2.5 inches in diameter, they arecomfortable for kids and adultsalike. Thefoam fillingissoothing for anxiety, restlessness, or sore handsfrom typing or writing. Thelarge variety packis also great for kids' party gifts.The balls areavailable in a few other themes, including dinosaurs, making them a fun option for teachers or therapists to distribute. The colors hold up well with regular use.Keep in MindThere is a strong odor when you first open the box, but it dissipates quickly with use.

Best for KidsFIVOENDAR Fun Face Stress BallsPHOTO: Amazon$19 at Amazon

Best for KidsFIVOENDAR Fun Face Stress Balls

Best for Kids

FIVOENDAR Fun Face Stress Balls

FIVOENDAR Fun Face Stress Balls 12-Pack

$19 at Amazon

ProsLarge varietyGood for party favorsSized well for kidsConsStrong odor reported

ProsLarge varietyGood for party favorsSized well for kids

Large variety

Good for party favors

Sized well for kids

ConsStrong odor reported

Strong odor reported

Items in set:24 |Material:Foam |Resistance:N/A |Fill:Foam

Staying stressed and frustrated with a funny-face stress ball helping you out is difficult. There are24 bright, funny facesto choose from in this pack. At 2.5 inches in diameter, they arecomfortable for kids and adultsalike. Thefoam fillingissoothing for anxiety, restlessness, or sore handsfrom typing or writing. Thelarge variety packis also great for kids' party gifts.

The balls areavailable in a few other themes, including dinosaurs, making them a fun option for teachers or therapists to distribute. The colors hold up well with regular use.

There is a strong odor when you first open the box, but it dissipates quickly with use.

How We SelectedWe consulted with a licensed mental health counselor to compile our list of the best stress balls. Based on her expert recommendations, we researched top products extensively, focusing onhigh-quality stress ballsthatprovide different sensory features, such as aromatherapy and color.What to Look For in a Stress BallQuality:A stress ball should be durable to ensure lasting tension and resistance. It is not beneficial if it goes flat or becomes too soft. The materials should feel comfortable and soothing rather than sticky or slippery.Resistance:A good stress ball should fight back a bit. Strengthening hand, finger, and wrist muscles is what helps relieve joint pain from carpal tunnel, medical procedures, and arthritis. A stress ball made for strength training will have the weight resistance listed and exercise instructions included.How to Use a Stress BallStress balls are small and portable so they can be used in a variety of settings and in many ways. You can squeeze a stress ball in your hand or press and roll it on a desk or table. You can toss it from hand to hand or against a wall. Keep one at your desk to use during stressful workdays or keep one at home for yourself or your kids to use anytime there’s a need to reduce tension or fidgetiness.Our ExpertsWe used expert guidance at every step of writing and reviewing this article. We consulted the following expert:Lisa McCrohan, MA, a Somatic Experiencing Psychotherapist, Integrative Coach, and author ofYour Light Is Rising: Kindling the Courage of Your SoulWhy Trust Verywell HealthAs a licensed mental health counselor,Mary Tatumhas spent over 15 years working with children, teenagers, and adults who struggle with anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and OCD symptoms. Stress balls can be a helpful and tangible option to help focus and relax our thoughts during intensely stressful situations. While we are all adjusting to work and daily life changes, it’s important to equip ourselves with as many helpful tools and options as possible.

We consulted with a licensed mental health counselor to compile our list of the best stress balls. Based on her expert recommendations, we researched top products extensively, focusing onhigh-quality stress ballsthatprovide different sensory features, such as aromatherapy and color.

Stress balls are small and portable so they can be used in a variety of settings and in many ways. You can squeeze a stress ball in your hand or press and roll it on a desk or table. You can toss it from hand to hand or against a wall. Keep one at your desk to use during stressful workdays or keep one at home for yourself or your kids to use anytime there’s a need to reduce tension or fidgetiness.

We used expert guidance at every step of writing and reviewing this article. We consulted the following expert:

As a licensed mental health counselor,Mary Tatumhas spent over 15 years working with children, teenagers, and adults who struggle with anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and OCD symptoms. Stress balls can be a helpful and tangible option to help focus and relax our thoughts during intensely stressful situations. While we are all adjusting to work and daily life changes, it’s important to equip ourselves with as many helpful tools and options as possible.

2 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Hudson BF, Ogden J, Whiteley MS.Randomized controlled trial to compare the effect of simple distraction interventions on pain and anxiety experienced during conscious surgery.Eur J Pain. 2015;19(10):1447-1455. doi:10.1002/ejp.675Mayer JM, Mooney V, Matheson LN, et al.Continuous low-level heat wrap therapy for the prevention and early phase treatment of delayed-onset muscle soreness of the low back: a randomized controlled trial.Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2006;87(10):1310-1317. doi:10.1016/j.apmr.2006.07.259

2 Sources

Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Hudson BF, Ogden J, Whiteley MS.Randomized controlled trial to compare the effect of simple distraction interventions on pain and anxiety experienced during conscious surgery.Eur J Pain. 2015;19(10):1447-1455. doi:10.1002/ejp.675Mayer JM, Mooney V, Matheson LN, et al.Continuous low-level heat wrap therapy for the prevention and early phase treatment of delayed-onset muscle soreness of the low back: a randomized controlled trial.Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2006;87(10):1310-1317. doi:10.1016/j.apmr.2006.07.259

Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

Hudson BF, Ogden J, Whiteley MS.Randomized controlled trial to compare the effect of simple distraction interventions on pain and anxiety experienced during conscious surgery.Eur J Pain. 2015;19(10):1447-1455. doi:10.1002/ejp.675Mayer JM, Mooney V, Matheson LN, et al.Continuous low-level heat wrap therapy for the prevention and early phase treatment of delayed-onset muscle soreness of the low back: a randomized controlled trial.Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2006;87(10):1310-1317. doi:10.1016/j.apmr.2006.07.259

Hudson BF, Ogden J, Whiteley MS.Randomized controlled trial to compare the effect of simple distraction interventions on pain and anxiety experienced during conscious surgery.Eur J Pain. 2015;19(10):1447-1455. doi:10.1002/ejp.675

Mayer JM, Mooney V, Matheson LN, et al.Continuous low-level heat wrap therapy for the prevention and early phase treatment of delayed-onset muscle soreness of the low back: a randomized controlled trial.Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2006;87(10):1310-1317. doi:10.1016/j.apmr.2006.07.259

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