Wasn't quite sure where to ask as this is not computer related, but I wondered if anyone has ever bought or used any particular types of neck massagers that are on the market?

There are so many it's confusing and a lot of them seem to look as if they do the same things but have very widely differing prices. I'm looking for one that has heat and massage but it needs to be safe as well. I wouldn't want it overheating or to hurt.

I also wonder if paying more $ actually gives you a better product or not.

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

So many options it is hard to know what would work well
I had a Panasonic shiatsu massage recliner that was very helpful for my whole back and neck. I got a nice used one.
I used a far infrared heating pad , these heat deeper than standard heating pads, as well as other benefits.
I found IFC stimulator to be helpful. Much better than a TENS.
Interferential current machine - Google Search

The percussion massagers seemed too hard or too hard to hold and use on my own neck. Shoulders.
The heated shoulder, neck things seemed more of a comfort vs a healing thing .

This was back when I had the severe RSI/ TOS symptoms so I was wanting healing products. I still have and use those same products when needed.
After all these years there could be some new gadgets too.

I'll have another look tomorrow morning as I'm weary now.
I found one called a "3 in 1 shiatsu neck and back massage pillow with heat". The site I looked at didn't seem to have a brand name, but I saw the same item on many different sites.

It's a little like my old lumbar support pillow in shape so you can sit with it behind the neck and back. It might be good because I can use it on lumbar area and even on my calves as well. Has the infrared heating. It comes in 2 sizes so I need to look into that. It has pretty good reviews. I just don't know what powers it. Can't see a lead in the photos. The other little wrap around neck ones don't seem so great after seeing that.

I found great IFC unit site thanks. I'll explore that. All probably too expensive though. TENS would be problematic for me I think but those IFC/IFT ones are different. My nerves and muscles are feeling so overstimulated, I think I need something calming. I found a great physio site with lots of info too. Need a money tree.

Thanks very much for the ideas.

I bought the 3 in 1 neck and back shiatsu massager. It'll be here on Monday perhaps. Can't wait.

I hadn't heard of these. I'd be interested to know how you like it. I looked for it on Amazon and it looks as if it might be really useful.

I'll let you know how it goes. Delays in deliveries here at the moment. Hoping it comes early this week though.

Agate, it came yesterday.
I only tried it once. It seems better if it's used sitting up with your neck and back leaning onto it. I first used it lying down but the little balls that do the massaging didn't feel so comfortable. It may just take time to get exactly the right position.

Great on the calves and thigh. Didn't like the lower back but I used it lying down. I'll try sitting up for lower back and see how that goes. I didn't want it to hurt, but I did want pressure. The massage balls could have been made with a different type of material I think. Something with a bit more "give".

The heat going at the same time is great though.

The massage balls go in two directions. On the neck it feels great if the balls go in a downwards motion. I didn't feel comfortable when they switched and went into the upwards motion. Hard to explain.

Now, if I was the designer, I would have done it a bit differently. . I'd also be rich I guess.

Wonder what the rollers are made of?

For the one I was looking at on the Amazon, the manufacturer has this comment:

I don't know if this will help with the device you have but it sounds like a way of easing into it gradually.

Dear Agate,
Thanks for that tip.
I think that will make it more comfortable.
I felt a little bruised (not visibly) after the first time but my muscles are very sensitive and in pain to begin with so I'll try the buffer with the towel. Makes sense it would feel better.

p.s. the heat was wonderful. Much better than an hot water bottle.


I'll show photo from site