The 10 Best Neck and Shoulder Massagers of 2024

The number of people who work on a computer throughout the day is always increasing in all sectors of life. Unfortunately, using a computer has come with its own share of occupational hazards; one of them being muscle tension, especially in the shoulders and neck. Studies have proved that typing or working at a computer causes the neck and shoulders to rise up and tighten. That can cause various back and neck problems.

You can combat the problem in various ways, but experts recommend regular shoulder and neck massages. Shoulder and neck massages will release tension and allow your muscles to relax. Apart from relaxation, shoulder and neck massage will increase the range of motion in the two areas.

We have listed the top ten neck and shoulder massagers of 2020 and the benefits they offer. Even more, we have included a buying guide to help you select the best massager.

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Best Overall: RESTECK Neck and Back Massagers with Heat

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To alleviate acute pain, muscle soreness and any backer tension, you just need the RESTECK Neck and Back Massagers with Heat. The unit relieves neck stiffness, eliminates constant tiredness, soothes aching muscles, and increases blood flow. You will also have a massage pillow, which is available separately for more soothing massages. The portable nature of the product means that you can enjoy neck and shoulder massagers when camping, traveling and when resting at home after work.

The shoulder and back-massaging product also provides a special device for heat therapy and allows regulation of heat. The four buttons facilitate easier usage. Regulate its heat to get relaxing massages and choose the correct stimulation mode. After you have selected the right settings, you just need to sit and relax. Wait for the pain and soreness to disappear.

Related:The 10 Best Back Massagers

MoCuishle Shiatsu Neck and Shoulder Back Massager

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The MoCuishle Shiatsu Neck and Shoulder Back Massager are among the best gifts you can buy for yourself or a loved one in 2020. For one, it is easy to carry around and wear. You can use it in any place and at any time. It features a microcomputer control system that offers a speed that matches that of the professional massager. The kneading massage will improve your blood circulation in addition to relaxing your tight muscles, eliminating fatigue and relieving pain.

Regular use of this unit will improve your nervous system, circulatory system, and your immune system. Kneading and heating massage for the shoulders, neck, legs, and waist will give a comfortable relaxing experience. Better still, you will have an AC adapter and a car charger to allow usage in any place.

Related:The 10 Best Handheld Massagers

Best Value: InvoSpa Back Shoulder & Neck Massager with Kneading Pillow

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The InvoSpa Back Shoulder & Neck Massager with Kneading Pillow is a good choice for people who need an inexpensive neck and back massager. It offers great shoulder massage with its 4 big nodes and 4 small nodes that massage the shoulders, neck, low back, foot, waist, calves, legs, arms, and feet. It relieves muscle soreness, release stress, and aid you relax.

Its neck pad offers three-speed levels that allow the user to get the exact pressure he/she needs to relieve muscle pain. The 3D shiatsu massager auto-reverses after every minute for proper distribution of massage effects. Moreover, the heat function eases muscle tension, promote blood circulation and relieve stress.

On the downside, if you are sensitive to odours, you will not love the odours this neck and shoulder massager produces. Even more, the short adapter cord might give you problems. But whether you love less pressure or more pressure during massage, the speed setting will provide you with the options. Use the portable neck and shoulder massager to soothe your body.

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MaxKare Shiatsu Neck Shoulder Massager

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This is a family-friendly Shiatsu massager that you can use for 15 minutes each day. Each member of your family will love the relaxing options it provides. The MaxKare Shiatsu Neck Shoulder Massager provides excellent deep kneading that comes with 8-bi-directional rotating knots to imitate real spa massage. Moreover, you will have heating therapy modes to help soothe and warm your muscles.

The three adjustable massage intensities allow customization of the massager to match the user needs. Overall, the massager will offer full-body relaxation to help relieve muscle pains. In addition to the adjustable massage intensities, the electric massager boasts an optional soothing heat feature that works to relieve the accumulated fatigue and stress. It personalizes relaxation for your whole body including the back, legs, cervical, shoulder and waist. Use the product to relieve your muscles.

The AC and DC adapters allow easier use at home, in the car and office. If you are not happy with the features it provides, you can return it within 30 days and get your money back. That means that there is nothing to worry about during the purchase.it is covered with quality FDA approved leather, which is easier to clean and soft to touch. All you need to clean is a small moist cloth. After that, you will enjoy enhanced massage sessions.

Nekteck Electric Shiatsu Neck and Shoulder Massager

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The product offers 8 deep-kneading massage pillow, which is a perfect choice for Shiatsu massage therapy. Its heating function reduces stress and the changeable design follows the body shape of the user in the targeted areas. The three-speed modes allow the user to enjoy the best deep tissue massage experience. In addition to that, the control system offers anti-clockwise and clockwise motion. Its heating function increases the benefits of massage, particularly when reducing stress. Use the switch to turn on/off the heating function.

To use the product, activate its handy warm/heat feature, which will ease pain and boost the flow of oxygen to body muscles. That means this product is good for people suffering from arthritis, chronic pain, migraines, muscle spasms and other disturbing muscle tensions. Due to the contemporary design, the neck massager will focus on and target the hard to reach areas like the back and shoulders.

The package includes the accessories you need such as a car adapter, AC power adapter and a user manual. Its handy remote control will have a stress-free massaging tool operation. The offered car adapter is more versatile and allows you to use your vehicle’s cigarette lighter as the power source. So, if you sit in your vehicle for extended periods, you will love the feature.

Best Design：Medcursor Neck and Back Massager for Shoulder

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You can use this amazing shoulder and neck massager in any place – whether it is in your office, home or in your car because of its portability. Shiatsu-neck massagers are known to give relief from muscle pain, improve blood circulation and reduce stress. It is a good choice for people who want to enjoy both mental and physical benefits. Apart from the lightweight and portable design, it is easy to operate. The heat function induces quality sleep and the strong rotators take responsibility for the deep kneading massage to the body part.

The massager rollers work both clockwise and anticlockwise to offer needed results. The speed is adjustable from light, medium to fast. When using the product, you do not need to bend or even turn the areas you want to massage. The handles will hold the device securely to control the pressure. You will love the auto-shutoff feature that prevents overheating. Use it to relax your tired and sore muscles.

Best Feature: MagicMakers Back Neck Shoulder Massager with Heat

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This quality neck and shoulder massager features copper motor for more efficient massage. If you have been suffering from back, neck or shoulder pains, MagicMakers Back Neck Shoulder Massager with Heat is the right product for you. Its specs adhere to RoHS, FDA and CE standards to ensure that the user gets a quality massage. You will appreciate the compact and lightweight design when traveling.

The massages are able to make you feel good both mentally and physically. In addition to that, the massages will reduce your cortisol level by around 53 percent. Possibly, it is the best gift you will buy for a loved one in 2020. The best thing is that anyone can use it. Its overheat protection feature ensures that the user is safe during massages.

NURSAL Neck and Shoulder Massager

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NURSAL Neck and Shoulder Massager has heat-function and 3-dimensional kneading features to massage muscles and eliminates pain within 15 minutes. The device targets the lower back, upper back, shoulders, backside and legs. It is, therefore, a good choice for use in your workplace, home and when camping.

The product has 4-nodes that allow the user to control the direction of the massage. Its kneading balls match human skeletal design for deeper massaging. It auto-reverses each minute to provide the user with the best results. It will eliminate pain within 15 minutes. UL institution has approved the massager’s power adapter so you have nothing to worry about. The overheat device ensures that you are safe during your massage sessions to be eliminating the chances of burns.

The Japanese have relied on Shiatsu massage for centuries. Shiatsu massage translates to finger pressure and the NURSAL Neck and Shoulder Massager mimics the feeling. It does that with its four rotating balls that knead like real human hands. You can adjust the kneading depth by selecting one of the three levels, which are low, medium and high. The heating function allows the user to warm everything up to enjoy more tension relief. After running for 15 minutes, the device will shut off automatically. It will wrap around your neck and the straps threads your hands to allow faster adjustment of pressure. The hand straps are also equipped with vibrating hands to massage your hands.

Naipo Neck and Shoulder Shiatsu Kneading Massager

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The Naipo Neck and Shoulder Shiatsu Kneading Massager offer 8 shiatsu nodes but half of them are very small, while the others are big. That makes the massager an excellent choice for people who want deep tissue massage. You can use the product to massage your entire body if there is any need. Its arm-pressure design demands mobility and moderate arm strength, but it is a great device for tight muscles and stress relief.

Its infrared heating option relies on Shiatsu nodes to help improve blood circulation in your body and relieve any pain. You will love the fact that the massager allows you to adjust the node speed. If you need more relaxation or to relieve any stress, you just need to select the low-intensity setting. The average intensity is ideal for people with cramped muscles while the high-intensity setting is a good choice for people with acupuncture points and tight knots. The PU leather and the breathable mesh cover make the product sturdy.

The neck massager features a dust-guard wrapper. Even though it will get into contact with your body, the rollers will never touch your skin. The dust-guard wrapper is removable and washable. In addition to that, the pocket handles allow the user to implement pressure. It does not have any option for rechargeable battery and that limits the usability. Use a washing machine to clean it.

Belmint Deep Kneading Neck and Shoulder Massager

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This product allows you to enjoy all the benefits that come with neck and shoulder massagers. Scientists have proved that neck and shoulder massagers eliminate shoulder and neck pain effectively. That might be the reason you will find many types of massagers in the market.

Belmint Shiatsu massager for shoulder and neck comes with a heating feature to warm up your muscles and relax you calmly. You can trust it to eliminate any muscle soreness or chronic pain.

It uses heat therapy and its deep kneading nodes will soothe your aching, sore and tired muscles. The ergonomic and easier to use design will penetrate to reach you back and the areas between your shoulders properly. The auto-reversing massage modes and the switchable one direction system is customizable to match your desired effects and type of body. The lightweight and portable design make it more comfortable for men and women who want to repair their muscles. Even more, you can use it at your workplace, car, and when camping.

What is a neck and shoulder massager?

Neck and shoulder massagers are more like pillows with built-in electronic rollers that massage the shoulder and neck area to relieve muscle pain and soreness. The products also come with handles that allow the user to keep them in place during a massage, including when a need to move arises. The massage units use various massage nodes that do not move up or down to produce the massage. Instead, the nodes produce the massage by rotating around their axis. These massage nodes mimic the hand movements of professional masseuses and masseurs.

The things to look for when buying a neck and shoulder massager

Even though neck and shoulder massagers offer many benefits, you have to select the right one if you want to enjoy all or most of the benefits. Each of the models available in the market provides many features, which you have to examine to be sure that you are getting what you pay for. That should take you to several things that distinguish one neck and shoulder massager from the other. Here are things to consider during your purchase.

• The massaging techniques
  Modern shoulder and neck massagers are built with several massaging techniques, including shiatsu massage, vibration and kneading massage. Therefore, it is possible to find a massager offering the three techniques and others only one technique. Shiatsu massage technique is known as the Japanese method. The method involves rolling the thumb, palm or fingers in all acupressure points as masseuse do. Shiatsu massage relieves and relaxes body muscles perfectly. If you are not planning to visit a massage therapist more often, you have to ensure that your neck and shoulder massager offers this technique.

Kneading technique involves pressing all soft tissues in your body or the body muscles against your skin to treat any muscle tension. One benefit of kneading massage is that it promotes blood circulation by increasing the amount of oxygen in your blood vessels. Kneading technique is ideal for people with joint and muscle aches and for relieving any tight muscles.

The vibration technique is mostly available with massage chair pads and massage chairs but due to technological advancements, you will get neck and shoulder massagers that employ the technique. Vibrations that the massagers produce can stimulate body muscles, relieve pain and increase blood circulation. Their ability to loosen muscles facilitates maximum relaxation.

• The power source
  Neck and shoulder massagers come as either electric or battery-powered massagers. The battery models allow you to use them anywhere, including when walking or traveling. Moreover, the battery-powered models can run for over three hours before a recharge. On the other hand, the available electric massagers do not come with any battery and require the user to plug them directly into a power outlet. Some are compatible with car adapters. Electric shoulder and neck massagers restrict the user’s movement. Even though there are some that come with long power chords, they do not offer the convenience you expect with battery-powered options.
• The price
  Your budget will play an important role when it comes to purchasing the shoulder and neck massager. If your budget is tight, you will have to narrow down your options to the most affordable. But if you need a massager with many notable features, you should be ready to spend more money.
• Full-body function
  Even though we have only reviewed products designed to massage your neck and shoulder, having a massager that offers relief to your other body parts is important. You might pay more on the neck massager but the extra amount is worth it.
• Weight
  Lightweight massage pillows are more convenient when traveling or when you need to move before your massage session ends. Generally, a shoulder or neck massage should not exceed 20 minutes, so choose a unit that can run for that time. You will have a hard time when holding the heavy massage pillow in place for 20 minutes.
• Portability
  Depending on the place you want to use your neck and shoulder massager, you have to consider the portability. Not every massager is portable. For example, the massagers that require arm pressure to function are not a good option for office use, unless you are planning to take a break. Pillow neck massagers are a good option for anyone who would want to enjoy a massage when driving or when working in the office. Portable massagers are easy to use.
• Adjustability
  Adjustability is among the excellent features that most massager producers leave out. With an adjustable strap, you can fit your massager onto any body part and furniture. The feature will make your massager more versatile. Moreover, adjustability will allow the sharing of one neck and shoulder massager. So, ensure that the massager offers a heat adjustment feature, intensity change and massage directions change. Some models will allow you to switch between various massage nodes with a single click of a button.
• Remote control
  Some models come with remote controls for smoother operations but others have all the controls integrated into them. Remote control will come in handy if you rarely use the massager on your shoulders or neck.

Which are the benefits of using a neck and shoulder massager?

For people without the money or time to see a masseuse regularly, shoulder and neck massagers can provide the same benefits. One of the things that you will get through the use of a massager instead of the masseuse is oxytocin release. Here are the other benefits you will enjoy after buying a massager.

• Natural elimination of aches and pain
  For people who suffer from chronic pain, the best option is to seek out massage services. However, a neck/shoulder massager will offer the same benefits. Studies have shown that massagers lower shoulder pain, low back pain and tension headaches. Moreover, they have proved that they help with fibromyalgia pain although the pain has to be localized to the shoulders or neck. The massagers improve the flow of blood, therefore, increasing the supply of oxygen on the sore body parts. That allows inflammation to reduce and soothes the pain.
• Relief of the less accessible parts of your body
  Massage therapists and masseuse find it hard to reach the sides of your neck and all the areas surrounding your back. The areas are very sensitive because they have many soft tissues so massage therapists might not massage them properly. Neck and shoulder massagers are designed to work out stiffness and knots in the hard-to-reach areas to ease muscular tension and pain.
• Reduced anxiety and stress
  Each day, you will encounter stressful events and people, regardless of where you work. Your body will then feel the stress in the form of pains and aches that affect your concentration, damage your mood and affect your productivity at work. You may also feel some of the anxiety in the form of pain on your shoulders, neck and back.

Massage is proved to reduce anxiety but the effects will be mild in the long term and you should not use it as a substitute for conventional care. It makes a lot of sense as an adjunct, particularly because you will receive all the other benefits of shoulder and neck massage. Massage will boost your mood instantly due to the stimulation of your skin and muscles and the motion, which boosts the production of feel-good hormones like serotonin and dopamine.

• You can get massages at any place
  The other benefit of shoulder and neck massagers is that you can take them to any place and use them in your office, living room, when lying on your bed or when watching your favorite TV program. Their compact small portable design allows easier transportation, storage and usage. They are more beneficial in offering instant relief from stiffness, pain and discomfort without interrupting your daily activities.
• Prevention and reduction of migraine symptoms
  Migraines are life-threatening headaches that result from many triggers such as shoulder and neck tension. Fortunately, massages in the areas reduce migraines and headache symptoms naturally without side effects associated with pain relievers and the other medications. Neck and shoulder massage will relieve any muscle spasms and promote better blood circulation to reduce any pressure in your head. Studies show that patients with migraine attacks experience immediate and dramatic headache and pain reduction after the massage.
• Strong immune system
  Modern studies have proved that the environment, food and overworking affects our immune system and overall health. Body overuse, lack of sleep and some other factors lower immune defenses. So, if you have found yourself catching colds or getting sick, you should start getting massages. Regular and repetitive massages will strengthen and improve your body’s immunity.
• Saves time and money
  Booking and scheduling massage appointments with the local salon or massage parlor can be a hassle and after that, you will pay a lot of money. And to go for the appointment, you will have to set aside several minutes if not hours from your busy and tight schedule. That is where a quality neck and shoulder massager comes in handy. Even though it will cost you a lot of money at first, it will prove a great investment and save you both money and time in the long term. After buying the massager, you will forget the trips to a local massage parlor and enjoy relaxing massages at the comfort, privacy and safety of your home.
• Ideal for everyone
  Unlike the other common types of electric massagers, shoulder and neck massagers are suitable for all people, regardless of age. You can buy one whether you are a student, professional, athlete, office worker or elderly. It is also a good go-for if you suffer from stiff neck, muscle fatigue or poor blood circulation.
• Super convenient
  A shoulder and neck massager is among the convenient relaxation tools the market offers. After buying one, you will never make any appointments for massage and you will never wait for anyone or anything. Furthermore, you will not need any special diets or medications any time you feel discomfort or pain. All you will need to do is switch on the massager and treat yourself. Some of the available models come with batteries to allow use when working or traveling. They are very simple to use and you can customize them for the best experience. Choose a hands-free or a strap option.

Tips for using the shoulder/neck massager

• If you want to use the heat, ensure that it is at the lowest level and use it in moderation. Heat therapy should not burn you and if it does, you should dispose of the massager or switch off the heat feature. Use the massage technique sparingly because too much of it will harm your body muscles instead of making them better.
• In the event the intensity is very high, you should lower it or place a small towel in between the nodes and your body. Deep tissue massage might be too intense for you to use on your bare skin or with your thin cloth in-between. You will be happier after using a towel.
• Do not use the massager when operating your motor vehicle. Use of anything that might distract you when driving is dangerous. If you must get the massage when driving, buy a massage chair and fit it against your driver’s seat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long should the neck and shoulder massage session take?
A: On average, massage sessions should last between 10 and 20 minutes. That depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the type of massager. Some models come with an auto-shutoff feature that comes into play after the massage time runs out.

Q: Is it safe to use the neck and shoulder massager when driving?
A: Use of a neck and shoulder massager when driving is dangerous. That is because it will have negative impacts on your concentration. If you have to use the massager in your vehicle, start by parking it somewhere.

Q: Should pregnant women use neck and shoulder massagers?
A: Generally, massages involve vibration, deep tissue treatments and heat, which pregnant mothers should avoid – light massage is ok. However, before you try the light massage, contact your doctor to know whether it is safe. Overall, handheld non-electric massagers are the best. They should not involve functions like deep tissue massage, heat treatment or vibration.

Q: Will the neck and shoulder massager hurt?
A: The shoulder massager will not hurt you but if you use it incorrectly, it will cause severe problems. Use it only on the right body parts.

Q: Will the massager work for shoulder stiffness and pain?
A: Yes, shoulder and neck massagers work like real deep tissue massages to provide an amazing feeling. You will be able to place it on the part of your shoulder, leg or neck you want. It will work perfectly.

Q: Is the massager safe for elderly people?
A: Yes, because the user controls the amount of pressure the massager applies. They do that through the arm straps.

Q: Will your height affect the working of the neck and shoulder massager?
A: Some massagers, such as chair pads and chair massagers will only reach a few parts of your shoulder or neck. They will come with advice about the height of the users and the limitations they have. The user’s height does not limit the use of other wrap-around massagers and wands.

Q: Should you sit in a chair or on a solid surface to use the massager?
A: No, unless you feel more comfortable when sitting in a chair or on a solid surface, you do not need to do that. The weight of your arms will keep the massager in place around your neck. Some individuals prefer to stand when using it.

Q: How much is the weight of the neck and shoulder massager?
A: The weight highly varies from one massager to the other, but generally, the weight will be between two and six pounds.

Q: Are neck and shoulder massagers loud when working?
A: Most of the massagers are quiet. You should not expect it to be louder than a fan.

Q: My massager has stopped working, how should I fix it?
A: After the massager has run for some time continuously, it will stop because its electronics must rest. Wait for around ten minutes and restart it again. Unplug it from the power outlet if that is important.

Q: will the neck and shoulder massager massage my whole neck, up to the base of your skull?
A: Yes, all you need to do is place the massager on the point of your neck you want to massage. That means you can place it at the base of your skull and start the massage.

Q: How much will I pay for the shoulder and neck massager?
A: Neck massagers might cost you as much as $100 or as low as $12. That is the key reason you have to select a massager that matches your budget and your needs. The amount of money you are willing to pay for the massager will dictate the features you get.

Conclusion

Massaging your neck and shoulder is important and it is hard to over-emphasize the benefits. However, we can treat the pain in the two body parts in various ways. Some people use ice, medication and others engage their neck region in exercise. The pain solutions are result-oriented but the neck and shoulder massagers have proved to be more efficient. For that reason, we have created a list of the top shoulder and neck massagers of 2020 in addition to a helpful buying guide. The FAQ section will be helpful when buying the massager and when using it.