According to an NIH study, neck pain is prevalent in all populations across the world.

Likewise, prolonged neck pain can result in numbness of the limbs or even worse.

On the other hand, massage is one of the effective ways to tackle neck pain for better wellness. Besides, it can help you to gain quick pain relief irrespective of the factors responsible for the neck pain. 

However, it is expensive to hire a masseuse and even more challenging to make frequent visits to the massage parlor due to neck pain. Moreover, a wrong massaging technique on the neck can disable the body or further aggravate the pain.

Fortunately, there are several massage pillows on the market you can use for your neck. That way, you only place the pillow on your neck while the device technically massages it.

Benefits Of Using A Massage Pillow On Your Neck 

Listed below are the significant benefits of using a massage pillow for the neck.

Affordable

According to Thervo, A neck massage can cost an average of $75 per hour. On the other hand, massage pillows are affordable when compared with the cost of visiting the massage parlor or hiring a private masseuse. Besides, you can quickly get the best massage pillow for the neck within a $50 to $100 budget.

Convenience

A neck massage pillow offers you comfort due to their lightweight structure, which makes them portable. Therefore, you can easily carry your massage pillow around without hassles.

Flexibility

You don’t have to book a massage appointment when you make use of a massage pillow. This provides you with the flexibility of choice to determine your massage time. In essence, you can plug in a massage pillow at your home, car, or office. 

Improves blood circulation

According to a study, massage improves blood circulation and relieves sore muscles. Additionally, massage therapy can increase the production of endorphins, which are otherwise known as happy hormones. Apart from getting instant liberation from neck pain, you can also get relief from stress and feel good after the massage process.

Not to mention, the massage pillow can lessen chronic neck pain caused by a neck injury.

Choosing The Best Massage Pillow For Your Neck

Before you dabble into the market for a neck massage pillow, here are some few considerations that will help you make the right choice.

Budget

An ideal massage pillow for the neck can cost from $50 and upward, which could be a good investment. Besides, it is better to opt for a pricey product instead of knockoffs that may further aggravate your neck pain.

Robust features

Although there are several massage pillows in the market; however, some of them incorporate only basic features. Instead of a massage pillow, which only includes massaging functions alone, you can opt for a massage pillow that comes with advanced features such as a heating system, integrated control, and application. Nevertheless, an essential massage pillow is ideal as well if you can use it without issues.

Weight

The perfect massage pillow for your neck should be lightweight and portable so you can carry it with you for on-the-go usage. Also, you should consider a product that comes with a packing box.

Vibration intensity

Different neck pain requires different massage intensities, so you have to opt for a massage pillow that offers adjustable speed ranges. That way, you are not left with default vibration intensity for your neck, which may further aggravate the pain or cause severe neck injuries.

Reliability

To avoid purchasing an unreliable neck massage pillow, you need to check the customer reviews by previous customers. Also, you can rely on recommendations before making a buying decision. 

To save you the time and stress of looking for the perfect product here’s a roundup of the 10 best massage pillows for the neck.

10 Best Massage Pillows For the Neck

1. Papillon 3D Shiatsu Massage Pillow

 

 

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Here is a massage pillow for the neck, which is known for its skin-friendly fabric.

It is made with durable materials that facilitate long-term use.

For automatic direction change, it features four powerful three-dimensional massage nodes, which are human massage, positive massage, negative massage, and heated massage. Also, it features a bi-directional massage controls so you can control how the massage head sweeps around your neck.

Thankfully, it comes with a selectable heating function you can use during the massage process. However, its maximal temperature is at 45℃ to eliminate temperature burns.

For safety, the Papillon Neck Massager comes with a built-in overheat protection system, which automatically shuts off the device after 15 minutes of use.

It comes with both an AC adapter (110-220V) and a car adapter (12V DC); therefore, you can use this neck pillow massager in your home, car, or anywhere with an electrical outlet. Also, you can easily set it up in your vehicle by using its elastic strap on both ends, which has a velcro closure.

To affirm its high quality, the manufacturer offers a 3-year full replacement warranty. Also, you can make use of its owner’s instruction manual for a quick walkthrough before usage.

2. Zyllion Neck Shiatsu Massage Pillow

 

 

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Zyllion is one of the top brands in the health product market, and this Shiatsu Massage Pillow is one of their leading products.

It has an ergonomic design which makes it perfect for use on the neck as well as other body areas such as the back, thigh, and calf regions.

Unlike other neck massage pillows on our list, it comes with eight shiatsu massage modes while 4 of the nodes rotate circularly, the other four nodes move vertically up and down. This provides you with a wide range of massage sensations for the instant relief of your neck pain.

Additionally, it comes with a heating function that allows you to relax during your massage sessions.

In the same vein, this massage pillow incorporates an overheat protection feature, which ensures it does not exceed 20 minutes or its working temperature. Also, it is certified by the FDA for safety.

For convenience, it comes with an elastic strap for easy mounting onto your favorite chair, whether at the home, office, or in your car. You also get an AC and car adapter with this package.

However, Zyllion does not recommend its usage on the bare skin. Before use, you should consult your doctor if you have medical implants, are pregnant, or are suffering from severe medical conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease.

3. Papillon 16 Shiatsu Nodes Massage Pillow

 

 

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Here is another neck massage pillow from the Papillon brand.

It comes with a detachable dust cover design, which makes it dust-proof. Also, it has a black and white plaid design that gives it an appealing look. Likewise, its curved design can provide you with traction to easily stretch your neck.

Unlike other neck massage pillows, it comes with 16 dynamic Shiatsu massage nodes. In the same vein, each massage node can provide you with a 360-degree massage for instant neck pain relief.

It comes with three adjustable speeds as well as bi-directional massage modes. That way, you can determine the speed and the massage technique for each massage session.

Also, it comes with an optional heating feature that enables you to determine whether you want soothing heat for your massage or not. For safety use, it comes with an overheat protection system that is programmed to a shut off automatically after 15 minutes of use.

Additionally, you can enjoy this neck massage pillow at the home, office, in your car. Moreover, it comes with both an AC adapter (110-220V) and a car adapter (12V DC). Also, it comes with an owner’s instruction manual for quick and easy reference.

4. Snailax Shiatsu Massage Pillow

 

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Snailax is a well-known brand in the massage pillow market, and this Shiatsu Massage Pillow is one of their top-notch products.

It is a lightweight and portable massage pillow that you can carry conveniently to go anywhere. Also, it has an ultra-optic plush design that offers a smooth feel for your body.

As a multipurpose product, you can use it for pain relief for your neck as well as other body areas such as your back, legs, lumbar region, and shoulders.

In the same vein, it incorporates an adjustable flap that allows you to fasten it onto your favorite chair. Also, you can use the flap as protective padding during an intense massage session.

This neck massage pillow comes with a four rotation Shiatsu node that allows you to experience a deep tissue kneading neck massage.

The heat function allows you to calm your muscles with gentle warmth, thereby improving blood circulation around your neck region. Plus, the overheat protection system automatically shuts off the massage pillow after 15 minutes of use.

Nevertheless, you can enjoy your spa-like sessions at home or in the car. Moreover, you also get a home power adapter and car adapter for flexible use.

5. Viktor Jurgen Neck Massage Pillow

 

 

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This is a durable massage pillow created by Viktor Jurgen, a brand that specializes in the production of electric massagers.

This neck massage pillow is designed for ergonomic use and can fit perfectly behind the neck and other body areas such as the lower & upper back, shoulder, thigh, and calf areas.

Additionally, it comes with a removable dust cloth, which prevents body contact with the massager part, thereby protecting the skin.

It comes with three-dimensional (3D) rotating massage nodes that imitate a masseuse’s touch on your pressure points. In the same vein, it comes with an optional heating function that releases warmth to your stressed muscles during your spa moment.

Therefore, you can determine the kneading direction and whether you want a massage session with heat or not.

For flexibility, it comes with an AC power adapter, adjustable straps, and car adapter; hence, you can use the device at home or in your car. With the adjustable straps, you can conveniently place the massage pillow on your seat.

Thankfully, it is FDA-approved for quality assurance. Also, its manufacturer offers a 3-year replacement warranty for quality defects.

6. Deep Kneading Neck Massager

It comes with an ergonomic hand loop feature, which allows you to place it around your neck for the massage action.

Also, it incorporates an ultra-soft fabric cover, which provides a soothing surface similar to the smooth hands of a masseuse.

Interestingly, it features eight deep-kneading Shiatsu massagers – a Japanese finger pressure massage type. With its kneading modes, all pressure points around your neck are soothed, which results in increased blood circulation across the neck muscles.

Apart from this, you can also incorporate heat with your massage sessions from the comfort of your home. Besides, it comes with optimal heat function, which allows you to decide whether to apply gentle, soothing heat to your neck or other areas during massage.

Thankfully, it allows you to opt for either auto-reversing or single direction massage modes. Therefore, you can control your massage direction based on your relief preference.

Also, it offers you adjustable massage intensity through its three speeds modes. That way, you can decide whether you prefer high, medium, or low speed.

It also comes with an AC and car adapter; hence, you can use it at home, in your office, or car.

7. Sunlite Travel Neck Massage Pillow Inflatable

This is a neck massage pillow that you can carry everywhere you go.

It is an inflatable massage pillow that incorporates smart air valve design. You don’t need to blow air with your mouth to inflate this pillow; instead, you can pump it up manually. Likewise, you can deflate it as well for convenient storage.

It comes with eight built-in massage nodes, which enable you to stimulate a Shiatsu massage experience for neck pain relief.

Thankfully, you can adjust the vibration intensity based on your relief preference by using any of its massage modes i.e., ÒMildÓ and ÒModerateÓ.

You can control the massage pressure by wrapping your wrists around its handle straps. Also, it comes with a cordless design, which eliminates the need to plug it into an electrical outlet.

However, you can charge it through a USB cable, although it takes up to 2 hours to be fully charged.

Apart from the massage pillow, you also get one sleep mask, two earplugs, an instruction manual, 1 USB charging cable, and one storage bag.

Therefore, you can utilize this massage pillow on a train, airplane, car, or anywhere. All you have to do is hang it around your neck.

8. Naipo Neck Massage Pillow

It comes with four deep-kneading Shiatsu nodes, which mimic the realistic touch of a masseuse. Also, this massage pillow automatically rotates the direction of the massage every minute. In fact, its kneading nodes allow you to feel penetrating motions during each massage session.

This massage pillow comes with a one-button control system. To use the massage pillow with heat, press it once. To use without heat, press the power button again. To shut off the massage pillow, press the power button for 3 seconds. 

For your neck massage, you can rely on its heat therapy feature, which can heat the massage nodes for up to 112F. It won’t harm your skin, but instead, it will enhance blood circulation around your neck region.

As a safety measure, this massage pillow comes with an overheat protection feature that automatically shuts it off after 20 minutes of use.

Thankfully, it comes with both a car and power adapter, which facilitates use in a car, home, or office.

9. Arealer Massage Pillow

This massage pillow is made with a 3D mesh fabric and premium fashionable leather that makes it’s surface smooth.

With its four kneading nodes, you can count on this massage pillow for quick relief from neck pain. Not to mention, it also comes with a heating function for massage sessions. That way, you can infuse your massage session with the right pressure and temperature.

It has a U-shape ergonomic design that allows you to massage your neck in three dimensions. Apart from the neck, its 3D rotary kneading can also be used for rubbing the shoulders, lower back, and other body areas.

It also comes with both a home power adapter and a car adapter. Hence, it is perfect for home and office use. Also, it has a flexible strip, which enables you to fasten it on any chair quickly. For safety, it was approved by both FDA and UL to affirm quality assurance.

10. MaxKare Neck Massage Pillow

It is well-designed for ergonomic usage, which makes it perfect for use in different areas of the body, most notably the neck.

In the same vein, it incorporates four kneading massage nodes, which allows you to determine your massage experience. Not to mention, it comes with an adjustable heating system that will enable you to combine soothing warmth with your massage sessions.

Additionally, the MaxKare Neck Massage Pillow offers you three dimensional (3D) massaging for reverse rotations and counterclockwise rotations. Therefore, you can create a spa-like experience without the hassle.

For convenient use, there is an adjustable elastic strap at the back of the pillow, which enables you to fasten it onto any seat, whether a chair or car seat. It also comes with both AC and car adapter,s which make it suitable for use at the home, office, or in a car.

For safety, it incorporates an overheating protection system that automatically shuts off after 15 minutes of use. Besides that, it is approved by the FDA and UL for safety assurance.

Thankfully, you can familiarize yourself with this massage pillow by using its instruction manual.

However, the manufacturer does not recommend this product for people who have medical implants or suffering from severe medical conditions such as heart problems, influenza, as well as pregnant women.

What Causes Neck Pain?

Neck pain is one of the common medical issues rampant across the world. You can experience neck pain due to the following several factors, which include:

• Muscle strain
• Degenerative disc disease
• Neck strain
• Osteoarthritis
• Cervical spondylosis
• Spinal stenosis
• Poor posture
• Neck injury
• Arthritis

Nevertheless, it is essential to identify the factors responsible for your neck pain before deciding to use a massage pillow for the neck.

How Does Massage Help Neck Pain? 

Massage therapy can help relieve the entire body from pain, most especially neck pain. During the massage process, the pressure points surrounding the neck are triggered, which increases blood circulation and alleviates the sore muscles.

Additionally, massage can lower blood pressure, relieve stress, and improve neck mobility. Whether chronic neck pain or not, you can get instant relief through massage.

How Often Should I Use A Neck Massager? 

You can make use of the neck massage pillow as long as the pain is prevalent. There are no standard guidelines for massage frequency, most notably for the neck. However, the massage duration and frequency depends entirely on the factors responsible for neck pain.

Alternatively, you can consult your doctor or a medical physiotherapist to determine the duration for each massage session and the frequency, whether daily or weekly.

Final Thoughts

It is ideal to use a massage pillow for neck pain rather than visiting a massage parlor on an intermittent basis.

With a massage pillow, you can experience the professional ‘feel’ of a masseuse from your home, office, or car.

Besides, a massage pillow requires minimal effort to operate so you can get instant neck pain relief without hassle. Also, you can relieve yourself from stress and release those happy hormones.

All you have to do is place the massage pillow at the back of your neck and then relax.

If you want a personalized massage experience for your neck, you can opt for any of the 10 best massage pillows for the neck we mentioned above.