Best Neck and Shoulder Massager: Top Models & Reviews [2023]

If you want to uncover which neck massager is the best, then you’ll LOVE this (recently updated) guide.

Let's be honest...

Many products and brands recommend online are a total waste of money and can even do more harm than good.

I have a "pleasure" 🙂 to own this highest rated my many reviewer's garbage product here.

It ends up being a total waste of money and in addition, I receive a BONUS - unpleasant marks on my skin. Yea, I know...

That is why it is vital to invest in the right product from the get-go.

Below, you can see products that I recommend but  let's see this fact first:

I personally spent over 70 hours (combined over 1 year period) compiling, test,ing and updating the models listed below. 

All models listed are decent quality options, depending on your specific need. My choice is the model by Brookstone listed below. A cordless model from Brookstone is also available, but I can't say that it is better than a traditional option.

There are a few high-quality home massagers available that deliver professional-grade massage relaxation at home or on the go. Here are a few of the most highly rated and recommended models.

Top-Rated Neck and Shoulder Massager

1. Nekteck Shiatsu Deep Kneading Massager with Heat

Great Model but I prefer Naturalico (listed below)

Same as the Brookstone, this Nekteck Shiatsu Deep Kneading Massage Pillow is also easy to use. It's fairly easy to throw on, whether you're sitting or standing, and it's highly versatile. It's great for home as well as the office, and it can travel wherever you go.

You can even use it in your car, which, if you have a long commute, is a bonus. It utilizes eight massage heads that deliver a deep Shiatsu massage.

It has built-in heat, which you can turn on or off, which aids significantly in reducing muscle tension in tight and sore muscles and improving circulation. A standout feature for this class of massager is the direction and speed controls.

Many massagers in this category allow you to select the speed or intensity level you desire, but the added ability to adjust the direction is something that more often comes with a chair.

I also like the flexibility. You can wear the massager not only around your neck and shoulders, but anywhere you have muscle soreness or tension—such as your calves, legs, or back. It's hard to find a back massage pillow that you can use so easily and effectively in so many different parts of your body.

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2. Trumedic Instashiatsu Plus Massager with Heat

Not recommended anymore as of [Sep 2023] (due to fewer features compared to other models)

We also like the design of the straps because at the bottom of each side there are loops for your wrists, so your arms can fully relax in a hanging position, taking the weight off your shoulder joints and tendons.

The massager targets your shoulder and neck, delivering deep-tissue Shiatsu massage via layers of rotating heads. You can also change the direction of the rotation.

A big plus is that you can use the massager on other parts of your body, so it makes for an excellent back massager if you have muscle pain, tightness, or stress in your lower back.

Yet another reason the heating function feature comes in handy on this model. It comes with a rechargeable battery, so it's easy to take with you, and you never have to wait long for your next massage.

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Naturalico Shiatsu Neck Massager

3. #1 Rated Budget Model [Updated: Sep 2023]

It's hard to beat the benefits a foot massager delivers when it comes to overall health and wellness.

There are more than 7,000 nerve endings in our feet, and the benefits of foot massage, or reflexology, are many.

You can adjust the intensity and add heat as needed or preferred to the deep tissue Shiatsu massage delivered via four rotating heads.

The Naturalico is preferred for relieving tension and pain in tight muscles and improving blood circulation. The massage is applied in two different directions, which most closely resembles a massage experience from a massage therapist.

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4. New Five Star FS8801 Shiatsu Neck And Back Massager

If you're on a budget, and you want the best of both worlds between the Naturalico and the Trumedic, you're going to want to take a long hard look at the New Five Star Shiatsu Neck & Back Massager.

You can also use one of those neck massagers on your feet (as well as neck, shoulders, arms, and back), and you also get the convenient wrist loops to take pressure off your shoulder joints. Also, it includes 8 massage nods.

The massage is delivered through eight massage rollers, and the style is kneading. It too is multi-directional, which you can quickly change in the click of a button, and there's an optional heat component you can turn on or off.

It's a good choice for your work or home office and also it travels well, you can use it in your car, and it shuts itself off after 15 minutes. This Five Star packs a lot of punch for a low price. You can purchase one on Amazon for just under 50 dollars.

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5. Brookstone

#1 Rated Massager [Updated:2021]

We like the design a lot, as you place it around your neck—it's like an airplane pillow, but longer, so it extends down the front of your shoulders—and turn it on. It includes 8 massage nodes.

It's easy to use whether you're sitting or standing, so it's an excellent way to get a penetrating Shiatsu massage while you're at home watching television or working at your desk.

It's small enough to pack in your suitcase, so it travels well too. It has a built-in speed and intensity control, so you set your desired levels.

It shuts itself off automatically after twenty minutes, so there's no safety risk if you fall asleep.

It is the best neck massager machine that provides almost instant pain relief from sore or tight muscles in your neck & shoulders and improves blood circulation. If relaxation tops your list of must-haves, you should check this one out.

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6. Naipo Shiatsu Shoulder Kneading Massager Machine Device

I recently decided to add this Naipo to the mix, because it becomes a popular option and one of the best-selling models in the Amazon marketplace. One of the reasons I have not listed this model before is because of its weak battery.

Now, the company provides a decent warranty and will probably replace it if something will go wrong, but it would be annoying to do so. Also, it gives a pretty rough massage especially if you are accustomed to the percussive massage or used a percussive massager before, so I would advise using some material or an additional shirt.

Naipo is an excellent massager for the neck area & shoulder area, but Brookstone or Naturalico brands are best when it comes to a massage and value in general. Most of these types of massagers can also provide relief from some lower back pains.

Some features are:

• 20-minute auto shutoff option (keep in mind that most of the massagers in this category have similar designs)
• Ergonomic design
• Shiatsu massage with heat function
• Breathable mesh fabric
• Can be used to massage legs (you can wrap it around your legs with attached adjustable straps)
• Comes with car charger (car adapter) and a dust-proof cloth.

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There are few more models available, but we decided to include it in our review, due to low feedback and lack of options:

• Zyllion zma13bk shiatsu pillow massager
• Brookstone Neck Massager Cordless model
• Resteck neck massager
• Bruntmor cordless rechargeable model (no power cord)
• Best Massage pillows from Liba Shiatsu
• 1byone Pillow with infrared heating feature
• Pure Pulse Electric massager (Electronic)

7. Thera Cane Massager - Best Manual Shoulder & Neck Device

If you want a manual option to massage your neck & shoulders and also your back and that delivers a highly effective therapeutic massage, you should include the Thera Cane body massager on your list.

Nothing to plug in and no batteries to contend with, this device enables you to massage your entire body as deeply as you want.

The design is ergonomic, and the placement of the massage balls makes it easy to target back and neck muscles and relieve tension and knots via trigger point massage, quickly and easily.

Check out this physical therapist's explanation and demonstration of the benefits of myofascial release and self-massage that you can get on your own with the Thera Cane.

Whether you want to go high or low tech, spend a fair bit of money or stick to a budget, there are neck massagers that's right for you.

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Other brands to consider: Homedics Neck Massager.

You also might want to look for various hand-held massager options. It is a different device that you can use to relieve pains in your neck and back area. If you are looking for a whole-body massage, you may want to look for a good massage chair. Some brands now offer full-body models, and you can have a useful zero-gravity device for just under 2000 dollars.

What Does a Neck Massager Do?

So you're a man who wants a regular massage, without going to a masseuse for an hour and a half. You're also a man who doesn't want the aching in your arms and legs to be solved by a traditional massage table or expensive gel, or an extremely long power cord. (If your neck gets really sore or tight, you'll probably want a neck pillow, which is available in many massage stores.) A neck massager speed settings are basically the ultimate in a product category of devices that massage your body all over, from the shoulders to the elbows, the calves, and even your feet.

But instead of using movements to push on your muscles or rub them, they stimulate nerves and massage your skin to alleviate tightness. They can be worn for hours, and often involve wearing just one or two earbuds so you can enjoy your favorite music while you're getting a massage. What Are the Different Types of Neck Massagers? Like the rest of the massagers we have on our list, the different kinds of neck massagers vary in how they massage. There are two types of massagers we cover in this article: earphones-only massagers, and neck massagers that work in conjunction with a neck pillow.

Is a Vibrating Massager Good for Neck?

Picture this: You're stretched out, comfortably seated in a massaging chair. It's late at night, and the outlet at your desk just keeps going off, turning on the little vibration wand attached to a vibrating massager and lighting up those muscles in your neck and shoulder. While you're more than a little content with that, you think, "Hmm, this would be nice on my neck too." Turns out you're in luck because those types of massage chairs are all over the place. It seems like almost all of them vibrate to some degree and may even offer some light massage gun. (Some even have mini massagers attached to them, so you don't have to use your own hands.)

Frequently Asked Questions

What Pressure Point Relieves Shoulder Pain?

One effective pressure point for relieving shoulder pain is the "GB21" or "Gallbladder 21" point. GB21 is an acupressure point located on the upper trapezius muscle, which is often associated with tension and discomfort in the shoulder and neck area. Here's a detailed explanation of this pressure point and how it can help alleviate shoulder pain:

Location: GB21 is situated on the top of the shoulder, approximately halfway between the base of the neck and the tip of the shoulder. It is typically found in the midpoint of the muscle when you raise your arm.

Technique: To apply pressure to GB21, use your thumb or fingers. Gently press downward and inward toward the center of your body with steady pressure. You can use a circular motion or hold the point for about 1-2 minutes while taking slow, deep breaths.

Benefits: Stimulating GB21 can have several positive effects on shoulder pain relief:

1. Muscle Relaxation: Applying pressure to this point helps relax the tense muscles in the shoulder and neck region, reducing muscle tightness and discomfort.
2. Pain Reduction: GB21 activation triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, which can alleviate shoulder pain and provide a sense of relief.
3. Improved Blood Circulation: Massaging or applying pressure to this point can enhance blood circulation to the shoulder area, promoting the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the affected muscles.
4. Stress Reduction: GB21 is also associated with reducing stress and tension, which can contribute to shoulder pain relief.

It's important to note that while acupressure techniques like stimulating GB21 can provide relief for some individuals, the effectiveness may vary from person to person. If you have chronic or severe shoulder pain, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a licensed acupuncturist who can provide personalized guidance and treatment options tailored to your specific condition.

What is the Trigger Point Between the Neck and Shoulder?

The trigger point located between the neck and shoulder is commonly referred to as the "Upper Trapezius Trigger Point." It is situated in the trapezius muscle, specifically in the upper portion of this muscle, where it meets the neck and the top of the shoulder. This trigger point is frequently associated with tension and discomfort in the neck, shoulder, and upper back regions. Here's a detailed explanation of the upper trapezius trigger point:

Location: The upper trapezius trigger point is typically located midway between the base of the neck (cervical spine) and the outer edge of the shoulder (acromion process). It can be found within the upper trapezius muscle's muscle fibers.

Characteristics: When palpated, this trigger point often feels like a knot or a tight band of muscle tissue. Pressure or stimulation of this point can elicit referred pain or discomfort, which may radiate into the neck, down the arm, or even into the head, causing tension headaches.

Common Symptoms: Activation of the upper trapezius trigger point can lead to various symptoms, including:

1. Neck Pain: Dull or aching pain in the neck.
2. Shoulder Pain: Discomfort in the top and outer part of the shoulder.
3. Headaches: Tension headaches, often felt at the base of the skull and along the sides of the head.
4. Limited Range of Motion: Stiffness and reduced mobility in the neck and shoulder area.

Causes: The upper trapezius trigger point is often associated with factors such as poor posture, overuse of the shoulder and neck muscles, stress, or trauma. Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk or hunching over a computer can contribute to the development of this trigger point.

Treatment: To alleviate pain and discomfort associated with the upper trapezius trigger point, various techniques such as massage, trigger point therapy, stretching, and postural correction may be employed. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a qualified massage therapist can help determine the most suitable treatment approach for addressing this trigger point and its associated symptoms.

Final Words on Which Best Neck Massager to Buy

The beauty of the technology and advancements in massage delivery and design available today make it easy to pick one that will provide you the precise characteristics you require to relieve stress, neck pains, and shoulder pain.

If you don't have the time or money to spend on a trip to a masseuse every single week, or you just want the benefits of a massage while you're sitting and waiting in traffic or if you are working late at the office, best neck massager or a portable massage head should be just what the doctor ordered.

Click below to check #1 rated product:

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