10 of the Best Neck and Shoulder Massagers

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A quick look at 10 of the best neck and shoulder massagers

• Best for relieving aches from sitting at the computer: FIVE S FS8801 Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager
• Best cordless and rechargeable massager: Naipo Rechargeable Neck and Shoulder Massager
• Best for 30 adjustable speeds: JamGym Muscle Massage Gun
• Best hypoallergenic massager: Zongs Manual Massage Ball
• Best lightweight massager: Voyor Ergonomic Dual Trigger Point Shoulder Massager
• Best customizable massager: HoMedics Cordless Body Wrap
• Best portable massager: RESTECK Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager
• Best large massage pillow: Boriwat Shiatsu 3D Massager Pillow
• Best hook cane massager: LiBa Back and Neck Massager
• Best travel massager: CONQUECO Shiatsu Neck Massager

Below, we list some massagers available on the market, with each product’s pros and cons.

Best for relieving aches from sitting at the computer: FIVE S FS8801 Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager

• Price: around $50

This massager is suitable for use in the office and car. It has a soothing heat function, eight massage nodes, and an automatic shut-off feature.

The Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager has three intensity settings, two massage directions, and eight massage nodes. The company states that this product suits the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen, legs, and feet.

Pros and cons

The advantages of this product include:

• a 10-foot AC adapter
• an automatic shut-off feature that prevents overheating
• two massage directions

However, reviewers have identified some disadvantages.

For example, the device can be heavy for older adults, and the heat function does not provide much heat. Also, using this product can cause soreness.

The FIVE S FS8801 Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager comes with an AC and car adapter. The company offers a 3-year warranty, and people can return it within 30 days for a full refund.

Best cordless and rechargeable massager: Naipo Rechargeable Neck and Shoulder Massager

• Price: around $130

This neck and shoulder massager is cordless and rechargeable. It has a heating function for relieving muscle soreness.

It offers a bidirectional massage and eight deep-kneading shiatsu massage nodes. People can adjust the intensity with three speed levels.

The product also features an automatic shut-off and is suitable for use all over the body.

Pros and cons

Some advantages of this product include:

• long shoulder straps
• overheating protection
• breathable mesh fabric

However, reviewers have identified some disadvantages, such as a bulky design and an uncomfortable netting material. Moreover, the nodes only massage in one direction.

Naipo offers a 2-year warranty and a 30-day return policy for this device.

Best for 30 adjustable speeds: JamGym Muscle Massage Gun

• Price: around $36

This massage device is suitable for the neck, shoulder, and back. It has an LCD touchscreen and 30 adjustable speed levels.

The JamGym Muscle Massage Gun has 10 attachments, and according to the company, it is quiet. It also features a rechargeable battery that holds up to 6 hours of charge.

Pros and cons

Some of the advantages of this device include:

• the ability to penetrate into the deep tissue
• several adapters to target different body areas
• a rechargeable battery

However, reviewers state this massage gun is heavy and can be very loud. They also point out that the attachments may fall off.

The device comes with a 1-year warranty.

Best hypoallergenic massager: Zongs Manual Massage Ball

• Price: around $10

This manual massage ball can alleviate pain and soreness in the neck, shoulders, upper back, arms, and legs.

The ball, which people can roll across the body, is suitable for use with lotions and essential oils. The company claims this product may help improve blood circulation.

The device features a 360-degree spin direction. Zongs states that the materials used in the ball are sturdy, durable, and hypoallergenic.

Pros and cons

Some advantages of this product are as follows:

• lightweight and easy to use
• comfortable on the skin
• does not trigger allergic reactions

However, some reviewers claim that the device is sharp around the edges, and it may be difficult to reach certain areas of the body.

Zongs does not state whether it offers a warranty on this product. However, people can return this manual massage ball for a refund or replacement if it arrives defective or damaged.

Best lightweight massager: Voyor Ergonomic Dual Trigger Point Shoulder Massager

• Price: around $22

This massager consists of two silicone balls that help relax tense muscles.

It is suitable for individuals of any age and allows people to press, squeeze, and knead to release neck, shoulder, and leg muscle stiffness.

This device has an ergonomically designed handle and is easily portable. Additionally, people can adjust the device’s width to accommodate different body parts.

Pros and cons

One advantage of this product is that it is lightweight and easy to use. The company also states this massager mimics an in-person massage.

However, reviewers note that the device may not suit those with very stiff muscles. Some reviewers also say that the massager broke upon initial use.

Voyor states it will refund or replace any defective or damaged products.

Best customizable massager: HoMedics Cordless Body Wrap

• Price: around $80

This body wrap is suitable for arms, knees, and back. It also has short straps that allow a person to use it for a shoulder massage.

This product massages through vibration and has a soothing heat function. People can customize the controls to vibrate, heat, or both, ensuring the wrap meets their needs.

The HoMedics Cordless Body Wrap also comes with a rechargeable battery.

Pros and cons

Some advantages of this device include:

• portability
• a rechargeable battery
• customizable massage controls

However, several reviewers state that this body wrap did not produce as much heat as expected. Other customers say the massage function is not strong enough for their needs.

HoMedics offers a 30-day return and refund policy for its products.

Best portable massager: RESTECK Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager

• Price: around $65

This Shiatsu massager is useable across the whole body, including the neck, back, shoulders, and legs. It massages through bi-directional deep kneading modes and heat.

It has 4 button controls for temperature settings and stimulation modes. The company states that this massager can target stiffness and acute pain and improve blood circulation.

Pros and cons

Some advantages of this product include:

• portability
• heat and mode settings
• wall and car adapters

However, the design of this massager requires people to move their hands and arms around to massage the body. Some reviewers state that this fatigued their arms.

RESTECK offers refunds if the product arrives defective or damaged.

Best large massage pillow: Boriwat Shiatsu 3D Massager Pillow

• Price: around $170

This large massage pillow is suitable for the neck and back. It has two heat zones with three temperature settings that target both areas. It comes with 4 deep kneading, bi-directional Shiatsu modes.

The company says these modes can help relieve stiffness and muscle fatigue, especially after working out. People can choose from three different speeds.

The pillow has a built-in 15-minute auto shut-off, remote control, and a soft leather covering.

Pros and cons

This massager is hands-free. The larger size means it can target more of the back and neck area.

However, some reviewers state that this massager causes discomfort, especially for people with less body weight.

Boriwat offers a 1-year warranty for this product.

Best hook cane massager: LiBa Back and Neck Massager

• Price: around $36

This manual massage cane has a node and spike design, which is useable across the entire body. The company states that the massager alleviates muscle knots and trigger points by applying pressure.

It has a lightweight and ergonomic design, which may make it suitable for people who find it difficult to hold heavier products for long periods. It contains BPA-free plastic and is suitable for use in the shower.

Pros and cons

Some advantages of this product include:

• portable design
• does not require electricity
• people can control the amount of pressure of the massage

However, some reviewers state that using this tool on bare skin is painful. Others report that the massager is too large for shorter people to use easily.

Best travel massager: CONQUECO Shiatsu Neck Massager

• Price: around $70

This heated cushion massager features a C-shape design. The company states that this makes it suitable for the neck, arms, and legs.

This massager has 24 bi-directional deep kneading beads and two speed settings. There is a single temperature setting. CONQUECO says these help soothe trigger points, muscle soreness, and neck stiffness.

Pros and cons

The cordless massager comes with a magnetic buckle fastening and USB charging cable. It’s also portable, making it practical for travel.

However, some reviewers state that the massage nodules are too hard and the fabric too thin, leading to pain and discomfort.

This product comes with a 1-year warranty and a 30-day return policy.

The following table compares the different neck and shoulder massagers in this article.

There are several causes of neck and shoulder pain, such as posture while working at the computer. Other causes include certain health conditions, such as arthritis and injuries.

Learn how to improve sitting posture here.

Neck pain

Some causes of neck pain include:

• improper sleeping positions
• stress
• sprain or strain
• cervical spondylosis

Shoulder pain

Some causes of shoulder pain include:

• osteoarthritis (OA)
• polymyalgia rheumatica
• rheumatoid arthritis
• inflammation

Neck and shoulder pain in children

A 2019 study found that children can develop neck and shoulder pain at school. Some factors that can increase the risk of pain include:

• improper sitting posture
• working on many assignments
• having difficulty viewing the classroom board

The Arthritis Foundation states that massage therapy is effective in alleviating anxiety and reducing stress levels.

Long-term stress can cause muscle tension, leading to stress-related disorders such as tension headaches and migraine.

Massage treatment can also help:

• increase joint mobility and flexibility
• reduce symptoms of depression
• improve blood circulation
• decrease levels of stress hormones

According to a 2016 literature review, massages can help improve the quality of life and well-being of older adults who live in residential homes. The study participants reported less pain and improved sleep and emotional state.

Additionally, an older study found that massage therapy may benefit people who have undergone cardiovascular surgery. The participants reported less anxiety, pain, and tension after a massage compared with participants who had a quiet relaxation time.

People may consider the following when purchasing a massager:

• Heating option: Some devices come with a heating option. According to the Arthritis Foundation, heat therapy can help relax stiff joints.
• Adjustability: Some massagers allow the user to adjust massage intensity.
• Design: Some massagers are suitable only for certain body areas, while others can target several areas. People should carefully read product descriptions to ensure they purchase a massager that meets their requirements.
• Massage nodes: Massagers may have a different number of massage nodes. More massage nodes may be better for smaller muscles, whereas fewer massage nodes may be more suitable for targeting larger muscles.

Massage may help ease neck and shoulder pain, but there are alternative remedies a person may use.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a type of treatment that involves inserting needles into specific pressure points in the body.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes there is some evidence that acupuncture is effective at easing pain in the lower back, neck, and knees.

There is also evidence that acupuncture may help symptoms of OA and migraine.

Chiropractic treatment

Chiropractic treatment involves manipulating the spine to encourage the body to heal itself.

Chiropractors often treat people who are experiencing pain that may be musculoskeletal. Some people with neck and shoulder pain may find this remedy beneficial.

Here we answer some common questions about these devices.

How often should you use a neck massager?

There are no official guidelines on how often an individual should use a neck massager. People may wish to start using the massager once or twice a week to see if there are any benefits.

Are neck massagers good for arthritis?

There is currently no research on whether neck massaging devices can help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis.

People may wish to discuss the benefits of massagers with a healthcare professional before purchasing.

Are electric neck massagers safe?

Electric massagers are generally safe if a person follows the manufacturer’s instructions.

People may wish to purchase massagers that have built-in automatic shut-offs to increase safety.

Are neck massagers worth it?

There are no studies that prove neck massager effectiveness.

However, anecdotal evidence suggests that some people may find neck massagers help relax the muscles and reduce tension.

Neck and shoulder massagers can benefit people who are experiencing muscle pain.

Before making a purchase, it is advisable to check the features of a massage product, such as design, muscle intensity adjustability, and heating option.

Alternative remedies, including acupuncture and chiropractic treatment, can also help individuals with neck and shoulder pain.