If you buy something from the links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Why trust us?

Best Neck Massager: Reviews for Pain Relief in 2023

Best neck massager reviews 2022

Neck pain is one of the most common types of pain experienced by the world’s population, second only to back pain.

So it’s no surprise that the market is bursting with lots of different tools for you to choose from.

In this article:

Neck Massager Reviews

Massage products vary hugely in style and features, so to save you time we’ve put together a list of the best neck massagers out there right now:

1. Best for Deep Tissue: Resteck Shiatsu Neck Massager

4.5

A deep tissue massage you control

Product Highlights

  • Use straps to control intensity
  • 8 different massage modes
  • Ships with a carry case

Potential Weaknesses

  • Requires mains power

Choose a massager that delivers an intense and satisfying deep tissue massage by investing in the Resteck Shiatsu Massager.

Position it around your neck and the kneading pillow will deliver a powerful massage right to the source of your pain.

Select from the eight different massage modes, and use the handles and speed settings to get the intensity you need.

Directional options and a heat function help you further tailor your massage.

Resteck have created this device for use on the go, as it ships with a handy carry case as well as an in car charger.

Neck pain sufferers couldn’t say enough good things about the Resteck Shiatsu massager, particularly drivers looking for ways to stay healthy when they’re stuck in a vehicle most of the day!

Looking for a massage tool you can also use for back pain? You have the versatility with the Resteck to also wrap it around your lower back.

Our Rating: 4.5 / 5
4.5
Check out reviews

2. Best for Power & Performance: Theragun PRO

4

A powerful device that’s kind to the neck

Product Highlights

  • Powers 16mm into your muscle tissue
  • Adjustable arm
  • Ships with 6 unique massage heads

Potential Weaknesses

  • More expensive than competitors products
  • Could be too powerful for some

Your neck is a super sensitive area of your body, so it’s essential that you’re careful when treating pain with a massager.

One device that offers you the intensity of a satisfying massage, with the softness your neck deserves is the Theragun PRO.

As the top-of-the-range device in Therabody’s new collection, it can power 16mm into your muscle tissue, and handle an incredible 60lbs of applied force without stalling.

You can choose from four adjustable arm positions and three grips, which makes it easy to hold in position.

We recently tested the Theragun PRO and did find it a little heavy to hold in place for long periods of time, but the results were more than worth it.

It ships with six heads, including the Supersoft attachment which Theragun recommend using on your neck.

Watch the video below to see how you can use the Theragun PRO to effectively treat your pain:

YouTube video

When you invest in a Theragun device you get access to the dedicated app which includes a number of massage programs specially created to treat neck pain, including Tech Neck.

If the PRO is out of your budget there are a number of more affordable alternatives, including iReliev’s Percussion Massager featured a little further down this article.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

3. Best for Heat: iReliev Shiatsu Neck Massager

4

Neck pain relief from a trusted brand

Product Highlights

  • Use handles to control intensity
  • Contains 20 massage balls
  • Built-in controls

Potential Weaknesses

  • Requires mains power

You want a name you can trust when it comes to investing in a pain relief tool — iReliev is that name.

For years they’ve created many high quality pain relief products, including their percussion massager and range of TENS units.

The new iReliev Shiatsu Massager is just as good as you’d expect.

Like the Resteck device above you drape it around your shoulders, then use the handles to apply the intensity you need.

However the iReliev offers more nodes than the Resteck device, providing you with 20 balls working to release muscle tension as opposed to eight.

It’s super simple to use, with built-in controls that give you access to three different speed settings and optional heat.

The iReliev Shiatsu Massager is not cordless (it ships with an AC adapter) but it does mean you don’t need to worry about running out of power.

People raved about this product, not just for treating their pain but also for relieving stress (which is one of the top causes of neck pain!).

Our Rating: 4 / 5
4
Check out reviews

4. Best for Trigger Points: LifePro 4-Speed Vibrating Massage Ball – Peanut Massager

3.8

Roll away your neck pain

Product Highlights

  • Uses vibration therapy
  • Four levels of intensity
  • Cordless

Potential Weaknesses

  • Treatment not as intense as a massager with nodes

Switch on this vibrating massage ball from LifePro and get it to work on your sore neck.

It uses the principles of foam rolling and adds vibration therapy to release tightness in your muscles and help you recover faster.

With four levels of intensity, you’re in control.

Plus when fully charged this vibrating massage ball can last for up to four hours, so you have a pain management tool you can take with you on the go.

Unlike the belt massagers featured above it doesn’t have nodes, so won’t offer a classic massage technique.

Though the deep vibrations will penetrate into your neck to break up knots and provide much-needed relief.

The power of the vibration impressed many customers, loving the sensation on their neck and lower back.

Our Rating: 3.8 / 5
3.8
Check out reviews

5. Best for Tension Headaches: Jade Tension Melting Face & Neck Massager

3.7

Neck pain relief from a trusted brand

Product Highlights

  • Made from genuine jade
  • Dual rollers
  • You control the intensity

Potential Weaknesses

  • Not as intense as electric tools

If you’re looking for something a little bit different, then take a look at the Jade Tension Melting Massager.

This beautiful massage tool is made from genuine jade and has dual rollers that glide across your neck to help reduce tension.

You can use it at room temperature, or keep it in the fridge for a soothing treatment.

Make the Jade Tension Melting Massager part of your nightly skincare routine and it can help boost your circulation and reduce puffiness.

As you’re controlling the pressure, you won’t get a deep tissue massage like you would with the Theragun PRO for example.

If want a natural pain management solution that looks good, this could be the one for you.

Its beauty also makes it a wonderful gift for someone in need of a massage.

Our Rating: 3.7 / 5
3.7
Check out reviews

6. Best for Office Chair: Comfier Shiatsu Seat Pad with Neck Massage

4.3

Turn your favorite chair into a massage chair!

Product Highlights

  • Fit to any chair
  • Four massage nodes in the neck area
  • Features 3D Finger Pressure Shiatsu (for the back)

Potential Weaknesses

  • Not portable
  • No heat function in the neck area

Why settle for just a neck massage when you could have a back massage too?

We recently shortlisted the best massage cushions on the market, and this Comfier seat pad got the number one spot.

In the neck area, four shiatsu massage nodes that you can adjust easily to suit your height, provide a deep tissue massage.

For your back, you get a whole host of different settings, including 2D and 3D finger pressure shiatsu, air compression and a range of vibration functions.

You also get a heat option, but this is only for your back. So if you’re looking for heat to soothe your neck pain you’d be better opting for a belt massager like the iReliev device.

Those suffering with discomfort appreciated how you could change the direction of the nodes in the neck area, mimicking the hands of a real massage therapist.

Our Rating: 4.3 / 5
4.3
Check out reviews

7. Best for Laying Down: HighBaller Twin-Ball Massager for Neck Pain

3.9

Lie back on this satisfying massager

Product Highlights

  • 2 large massage balls
  • Includes adjustable pins
  • Position it on the floor or wall

Potential Weaknesses

  • Not as powerful as an electric tool
Requires effort from the u

Why sit up and suffer with your neck pain when you could be lying down and enjoying your treatment?

Choose this HighBaller Massager and you can do exactly that!

Two massage balls are positioned in just the right place to allow you to work on relieving tight spots, improving your mobility.

If they’re not positioned just right, adjustable pins allow you to move them to the perfect spot for you.

The HighBaller Massager is versatile too, use it on your arms and legs or position it on the wall to treat your back pain.

You don’t get as much power as an electric tool, but you can still enjoy a deep and satisfying massage that you control.

Our Rating: 3.9 / 5
3.9
Check out reviews

8. Best for Value: iReliev Percussion Massager

3.8

A simple and effective percussive massage tool

Product Highlights

  • Powers 10mm into the muscles
  • Includes 4 massage heads
  • Lightweight

Potential Weaknesses

  • Could be too powerful for some

If you’re interested in the Theragun PRO but want a more affordable alternative, then take a look at the iReliev Percussion Massager.

As you’d expect for a lower cost you won’t get all the features, but you still get a powerful tool for treating your pain.

Delivering 10mm strokes, iReliev’s percussive massager has been designed to relieve tension in your muscles and help improve your range motion — perfect for a stiff neck.

It ships with four different attachments, including a Fork Head specially designed for use on the neck.

You also get the option of three speed settings, so you can apply gentle pressure or more intense percussions depending where you’re treating.

Weighing just 1lb, you’ll find it easy to maneuver it to where you need relief and hold it in place.

Those who’d only known iReliev for producing some of the top-rated TENS units around, found the gun both powerful and quiet.

Our Rating: 3.8 / 5
3.8
Check out reviews

9. Best for Wearability: Mighty Rock Neck Massager with Heat

4.1

A wearable massager just for your neck!

Product Highlights

  • Wearable device
  • Pulsating massage style
  • Compact and lightweight

Potential Weaknesses

  • Not as powerful as a massager with node

Many massagers on this list offer you the versatility to use them on different areas of your body.

Yet if you’re struggling with neck pain you might want a tool that’s just all about your neck!

Slip on the Mighty Rock Massager and the two metal pads start pulsing to soothe your discomfort.

Six different massage modes and nine intensity levels allow you to tailor the perfect massage you desire.

Made from a soft, silicone material and weighing less than half a pound, it’s light and comfortable to wear.

Though you also get heat functions with the device, users felt it didn’t really deliver. Yet the massage was so fulfilling that they were willing to overlook it.

If heat is a dealbreaker for you, then a better option might be the Resteck Shiatsu Massager.

It’s worth noting on the whole that tools like this one tend to divide people. Some people swear by them with others finding them not powerful enough, so be sure to read the reviews before purchasing.

Our Rating: 4.1 / 5
4.1
Check out reviews

10. Best for Car: Zyllion Shiatsu Neck Massager Pillow

4.3

A small but powerful pain relief tool!

Product Highlights

  • Affordable
  • Compact and portable
  • Ships with a car adapter

Potential Weaknesses

  • Requires mains power

The shape of the Zyllion Shiatsu Pillow Massager makes it perfect for treating neck pain.

Simply position it on your neck and the shiatsu nodes will deliver a deep massage, changing direction every minute to create the sensation of a professional treatment.

Soothing heat adds to the relaxing experience.

Zyllion’s massage cushion is also perfectly portable thanks to its compact and slim design. Plus it ships with an AC and DC adapter so you can use it in the car.

Made from 100% vegan leather, owners of the pillow loved the quality.

They also couldn’t believe the power of such a small device, appreciating how they could sit back as it got to work on their tense areas.

Our Rating: 4.3 / 5
4.3
Check out reviews

11. Best for Manual Use: AccuMassage - Deep Tissue Neck Massager

3.9

A simple and effective manual massage tool

Product Highlights

  • 2 soft rubber massage balls
  • Removable arm for more convenient treatment
  • You control the intensity

Potential Weaknesses

  • Requires effort from the user
  • Less powerful than an electric tool

If you’d prefer to invest in a manual massage tool then take a look at the AccuMassage.

With two soft rubber massage balls in the center, you place it around your neck and then massage the pain and discomfort away.

The balls can be placed in three different positions depending on where you’re targeting, or remove one arm and use the device more like a percussive massager.

One of the major benefits of this device is that you’re in control. You decide the pressure and position of your treatment.

However if you struggle with your range of motion, or you think your pain might be a result of stress, then an electrical massager may provide more advantages.

Those looking for a simple device enjoyed how they could easily pick up and use the device, without the hassle of plugging it in or unpacking a complex piece of kit.

They also felt it was so effective for releasing tight muscles and helping them stay loose.

Our Rating: 3.9 / 5
3.9
Check out reviews

12. Best for Whole Body: Real Relax Massage Chair

4.4

A massage chair that will take care of your neck

Product Highlights

  • 8 massage rollers and 50 airbags
  • Zero gravity settings
  • Enjoy a whole body massage

Potential Weaknesses

  • More expensive
  • Requires space in your home

If you’re going to invest in a massage tool for your neck pain, then why not go the whole nine yards and choose a massage chair!

After taking a look at the top chairs out there, and considering many different factors, we found the Real Relax Massage Chair topped the list.

Many chairs concentrate on the back, but the Real Relax also has great features for painful necks.

Within the chair are eight massage rollers and 50 airbags for the back and neck.

Various modes and settings, and the option of zero gravity means you have so many options to play around with.

Heat therapy adds to the relaxation and a simple-to-use remote means you’re always in control.

Of course you’re going to spend a lot more compared to the other massage tools on the list, but this is pain relief taken to the next level!

Our Rating: 4.4 / 5
4.4
Check out reviews

How We Review & Rate

Here at The Good Body we’ve spent years rating and reviewing health products, including neck massagers.

In this article we’ve shortlisted 12 of the best products on the market, highlighting key functions and features so you can make the right decision for you.

To come up with a rating we consider a number of different factors, including power, battery life, intensity control, massage styles and affordability. We also take into account consumer feedback collected from various websites.

Taking all this information, plus our industry knowledge, allows us to come up with a rating that gives you the best overall view of the product and how it can help to ease your neck pain.

Buying Guide

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the products out there, then we’ve put together a Neck Massagers buying guide below.

We’ve explained each of the features you can consider, to help you choose the right product to start easing your pain.

Types of Neck Massagers

There are a number of different types of neck massagers available, whether you’re looking for something handy for a recent ache or you want to make a big investment to deal with chronic daily pain.

Styles of Electric Neck Massagers

Wrap-around

A wrap-around massager drapes around your neck and shoulders to truly target the pain. They’re available with arm straps so you can apply the pressure you need or velcro straps for a hands free option.

Chair

A chair massager is a piece of furniture that you add to your home to sit in each day. It’s a big investment but it’s probably the closest you can get to a hands-on massage.

Chair Pad

The next best thing to a chair massager is a massage pad (also known as a seat topper) that you can attach to your favorite chair. It normally hooks over the back and reaches up to the neck for a deep massage.

Handheld

A handheld massager is normally a wand or pad that you operate and maneuver around your neck to get to the source of the pain.

Belt

A belt massager can be draped around your shoulders so you can get a deep massage in key areas.

Cushion / Pillow

A cushion or pillow massager is handy for use on the neck so you can tuck it exactly where you need the relief.

Pulse Massager

More commonly known as a TENS unit it sends low voltage electrical impulses across the skin that stimulate the nerves.

Styles of Non-Electric Neck Massagers

Cane Massager

A cane massager is a simple device which can be maneuvered to the right part of the body to provide relief.

Wooden Ball Massager

A wooden ball massager has wooden balls that are run up and down the skin to release tension.

S Shaped Massager

An S shaped massager is a stick which normally has carefully placed nodes so it can be maneuvered to the exact right position.

3 Prong Mini Massager

A 3 prong mini massager is a simple handheld device that can be used to work out knots and tension.

Foam Roller

A foam roller has a hard or soft exterior depending on the relief needed. It is rolled up and down the affected area to release tension in the muscles.

Features of Neck Massagers – What to Consider

Shape

The shape of the massager is important as you need to make sure it can really target the source of your pain. Whether it’s an S shaped stick or a chair pad, you need to make sure it can reach where it needs to go.

Size

You also need to consider the size, will it give you good coverage? Is it too large to be portable? All should be considerations to make the right choice.

Weight

As well as size, weight might be a consideration as you may be draping the device around your neck, or trying to maneuver it into place.

Arm Straps

Certain neck massagers come with arm straps, allowing you to control the pressure.

Velcro Straps

Velcro straps are another feature offered with wrap-around massagers, that help you position it in the right spot without having to hold it in place.

Electric / Non-Electric

Consider which option is right for you, whether you want to use your massager on the go, or just ensure you can use it in your favorite chair!

Nodes

The number of massage nodes that the device offers may be important to you if you’re looking for a deep and intense massage.

Percussion

Percussion is a massage technique that users have described as “thundering on your back”, so perfect if you want a deep tissue massage perhaps not ideal if you’re looking for something a little less intense.

Shiatsu

Look for this feature, a Japanese massage technique, if you want to replicate the hands of a masseuse as closely as possible! Some neck massagers include an optional direction mode so the nodes can change direction for a more satisfying massage.

Magnetic Field Therapy

Massagers which offer magnetic field therapy as a function essentially include magnets which, when placed on the body, are believed to improve the natural magnetic energy within us.

Kneading

If you have knots and want a massage that is really going to work them out then you might want to look out for the kneading function.

Wand

If you want hand-held control then you may opt for a wand massager or a unit that includes a wand.

Vibration

Some units offer an additional vibration function which might be something you want to consider for that added extra relief.

Heat

Heat can offer comforting relief from pain as it heats the skin which stimulates the sensors and blocks the pain signals being sent to the brain[1]. Many different massagers include this option so it’s worth looking out for. Infrared heat is also a feature offered by some devices.

Timer

A timer can be handy if it takes you a while to get to the source of your pain, so you can set a period of time and then just sit back and enjoy the relief.

Auto Shut Down

Auto Shut Down protects you and the unit from overheating, however if it takes you a while to get to the source of your pain, a short auto shut down could be frustrating.

Intensity / Speed Settings

If you have good days and bad days and want a massage that can flex with you then you want to look for a massager with a selection of intensity settings (also referred to as speed settings). Some devices only come with one setting so make sure you choose what is right for you.

Rechargeable

Some massagers are rechargeable making them handy to be used in the office or on the go, look closely at the length of time advertised when the product is fully charged.

Speed of Charge

You may also want to consider the speed at which the product goes from flat to fully charged, as that may be something that’s important to you.

Portable

If you’re wanting to take your massager on vacation or use it at work then look for one that is an appropriate size and weight. You can also choose a massager for in the car, however this can only be used when stationary or as a passenger.

Car Charger

Using your device in your car, between meetings for example, might be important to you, so look for a device that comes complete with an in car charger.

Power Cord Length

It may seem an unimportant feature but if you want to enjoy your treatment in your favorite chair then the length of the power cord is certainly worth checking out.

Attachments

Some massagers come with attachments to target different areas, such as the face, or with oil stick attachments to allow you to apply creams or essential oils which may be an important feature for you.

Memory / Recall

If your pain is hard to reach and you get the intensity just right it can be frustrating to have to go through the various settings each time. Memory / recall functions remember the intensity and style of massage you enjoy which can be helpful day to day.

Instructional Video

Another extra that may be offered is an instructional video. It may sound like just a nice-to-have but if you want to get the most from your product then it can be a handy extra.

Benefits

Neck Pain

Of course those who suffer from neck pain will benefit from a massage. Massage tools mimic the hands of a masseuse stimulating the muscles and nerve endings.

Research has shown that massage therapy is an effective treatment for chronic neck pain, and the devices on this list are essentially simulating this technique.

Did You Know?

Women are more likely to experience neck pain than men.[2]

Shoulder Pain

As well as providing relief from neck pain, a massage tool can also work well for shoulder pain. Shoulder pain is one of the most common pain complaints reported in the U.S.[3], and by stimulating the muscles with a massager it is believed that this provides relief.

Stiff Neck

Whether you get a stiff neck occasionally or you suffer from chronic daily pain you’ll understand how uncomfortable it can be. It is believed that around 10% of the adult population are suffering from a stiff neck at any one time[4], with massagers being suggested as a natural way to treat the pain.

Muscle Tension

Tension in the muscles can also be relieved by a massage whether in your neck, shoulders or back.

Migraine / Headache

Massage as a therapy is used both as a treatment and a preventative method. Tension headaches are the most common type of headache in the world[5], and often cause both neck and shoulder pain along with pain in the head.

Cervical Spondylitis

Massage therapy as a concept is believed to be an effective treatment, however as the neck is incredibly sensitive when you suffer from this condition it’s important that you speak to your doctor before beginning treatment.

Arthritis

Massage therapy can be an effective treatment for arthritis, yet for certain forms of severe arthritis it can have a negative effective so it’s important to consult with your doctor.

FAQs

What is a neck massager?

What does a neck massager do?

How do I choose a neck massager?

How long can you use a neck massager for?

Can I use a neck massager while pregnant?

Do you have to be a certain height to use a neck massager?

Can you use a neck massager on other areas of your body?

Can you drive while using a neck massager?

How much does a neck massager cost?

Where can I buy a neck massager?

We hope our handy guide has made your buying decision a little easier, but more importantly, that you find that perfect product to give you relief from your pain. Good luck!

Laura Smith

Author

Laura Smith

Associate Editorial Manager

Specialist health & wellbeing writer, passionate about discovering new technologies & sharing the latest research.

References

  1. Physio Works (2021). Heat Packs [Online]. Available from: https://physioworks.com.au/faq/heat-packs-why-does-heat-feel-so-good/ [Accessed 4 Nov 2021].
  2. ScienceDaily (2016). Women suffer more neck pain than men [Online]. Available from: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/03/160308133051.htm [Accessed 4 Nov 2021].
  3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2008). QuickStats: Percentage of Adults Reporting Joint Pain or Stiffness, National Health Interview Survey,§ United States, 2006 [Online]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5717a9.htm [Accessed 4 Nov 2021].
  4. HealthEngine (2005). Neck pain [Online]. Available from: https://healthengine.com.au/info/neck-pain [Accessed 4 Nov 2021].
  5. The Migraine Trust (2021). Tension-type headache [Online]. Available from: https://migrainetrust.org/understand-migraine/types-of-migraine/other-headache-disorders/tension-type-headache/ [Accessed 4 Nov 2021].