Neck and shoulder massagers are devices that people can use to relieve muscle pain and stiffness. They are available from online providers, and some have a portable design and an adjustable massage intensity.
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There are several causes of neck and shoulder pain, such as improper 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:
Shoulder pain
Some causes of shoulder pain include:
Neck and shoulder pain in children
A 2019 study found that children can develop neck and shoulder pain while at school. Some factors that can increase the risk of pain include:
- assuming improper sitting posture
- working on many assignments
- having difficulty viewing the classroom board
The Arthritis Foundation (AF) states that massage therapy is effective in alleviating anxiety and reducing stress levels.
Long-term stress can cause muscle tension, which can lead to stress-related disorders, such as tension headaches and migraine headaches.
Massage treatment can also help:
According to
Additionally, an older study found that massage therapy may be beneficial for people who have undergone cardiovascular surgery. The participants reported less anxiety, pain, and tension after a massage, compared with the 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 AF, 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 areas of the body, while others can target several different areas. People should carefully read product descriptions to ensure they are purchasing 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.
Below, we list some massagers available on the market, with each product’s pros and cons.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based.
FIVE S FS8801 Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager
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 is suitable for the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen, legs, and feet.
Pros and cons
The pros 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 cons.
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.
Naipo Rechargeable Neck and Shoulder Massager
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 pros of this product include:
- long shoulder straps
- overheating protection
- a breathable mesh fabric
However, reviewers have identified some cons, 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.
JamGym Muscle Massage Gun
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 while in use. It also features a rechargeable battery that holds up to 6 hours of charge.
Pros and cons
Some of the pros 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 the attachments may fall off.
The device comes with a 1-year warranty.
Zongs Manual Massage Ball
This manual massage ball can alleviate pain and soreness that develops 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 it uses in the ball are sturdy, durable, and hypoallergenic.
Pros and cons
Some pros of this product are as follows:
However, some reviewers claim that the device is sharp around the edges.
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.
Kaiming Meiya Massage Pillow
The Kaiming Meiya Massage Pillow has a hot cervical neck traction device. The company states it is suitable for the neck, shoulders, and back.
The pillow has two deep-kneading shiatsu massage heads. It also comes with a heat function, a protection against overheating, and an automatic shut-off feature.
Moreover, the massage pillow contains vegan leather and a skin-friendly mesh material.
Pros and cons
Some pros of the Kaiming Meiya Massage Pillow include:
- wear-resistant mesh material
- adjustable massage intensity
- independent massage functions
However, some reviewers state that the pillow’s rotating massager can be painful.
Additionally, some review authors say this pillow may not be suitable for people who have a smaller body frame, as the device does not line up to the shoulders correctly.
Voyor Ergonomic Dual Trigger Point Shoulder Massager
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 to different body parts.
Pros and cons
The Voyor Ergonomic Dual Trigger Point Shoulder Massager comes with pros and cons.
For instance, 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 be suitable for 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.
HoMedics Cordless Body Wrap
This body wrap is suitable for use for the 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 pros 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 they expected. Other customers say that the massage function is not strong enough for their needs.
HoMedics offers a 30-day return and refund policy for its products.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/neck-and-shoulder-massager