A back scratcher is a tool used to reach an itch on a person’s back. It has a rake-like tip or bristles and is made of plastic or bamboo. The history of the back scratcher is unclear, but it may have been one of the first tools invented by early humans. A good back scratcher should be able to reach the lower back without causing strain or injury. Many back scratchers are promotional novelties or cheap imports, but medical supply stores may offer more advanced options.
A back scratcher is a simple tool often used to reach an otherwise inaccessible itch on a person’s back. One end of a back scratcher usually contains a rake-like tip or set of bristles to aid in the scratching process, while the other end might contain a shoehorn blade or other dressing aid. Most likely, the non-commercial end of a common back scratcher will contain a loop of string fed through a hole and tied for easy storage on a nail or hook. While there are a number of collectible back scratchers made from materials such as ivory or stainless steel, the most common material used for a modern back scratcher is plastic or bamboo.
The history of the back scratcher is a bit sketchy, although a number of ancient civilizations used extension devices to scratch underneath elaborate costumes and wigs during ceremonies. It is highly possible that the back scratcher was one of the first tools invented by early humans, most likely as a result of experiments with branches and weeds. Even today, numerous animal species have been observed using sticks as simple back scratchers or extenders. The concept of a back scratcher may have been refined over the centuries into the tool we know today.
The tip of a modern back scratcher is often shaped like a curved human hand, with the “fingernails” acting as sharp scrapers. In recent years, a more advanced model of back scratcher with more soft rubber or plastic bristles has become popular. A good back scratcher should be able to reach the user’s lower back without creating undue strain. The bristles or teeth of a back scratcher should be sharp enough to create a beneficial resistance, but not sharp enough to cause injury to the skin. A simple back-and-forth raking motion should be enough to satisfy the itch.
Many back scratchers sold today are promotional plastic novelties or cheap bamboo imports. This does not necessarily mean, however, that these products cannot produce satisfactory results. For many people, anything that can reach an inaccessible itch without causing injury makes a good back scratcher. For more advanced back scratching technology, it may be helpful to search medical supply stores or online stores that specialize in medical dressings and aids.
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