A multi-layered massage ball which substantially mirrors the hardness and deformation characteristics of the human thumb and is particularly effective in relieving tender and painful muscle conditions, including but not limited to trigger points. The massage ball typically includes a core, at least one resilient layer encapsulating the core, and a ball cover. The massage ball may be pressed and rolled against the afflicted area or areas to substantially alleviate pain and discomfort associated with muscle or connective tissue conditions.
1. A massage ball comprising:
a substantially rigid core;
a substantially rigid plastic core cover encapsulating said core;
an inner elastic layer encapsulating said core cover;
an inner compressive layer encapsulating said inner elastic layer;
a middle elastic layer encapsulating said inner compressive layer;
an outer compressive layer encapsulating said middle elastic layer;
an outer elastic layer encapsulating said outer compressive layer;
a ball cover encapsulating said outer elastic layer;
wherein each of said inner elastic layer, said middle elastic layer and said outer elastic layer has a thickness of about 1 mm, said inner compressive layer has a thickness of about 6 mm and said outer compressive layer has a thickness of about 5 mm; and
wherein said ball cover is a knit or fabric.
2. The massage ball of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of dimples provided in said core cover.
3. The massage ball of claim 1 wherein said inner elastic layer, said middle elastic layer and said outer elastic layer each comprises a non-woven material and a plurality of elastic fibers provided in said non-woven material and said inner compressive layer and said outer compressive layer each comprises an elastic bandage, and further comprising a plurality of dimples provided in said core cover.