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7 Best Shiatsu Massage Pillows for Neck, Shoulder and Back - Tailored Pain Relief in 2020

Shiatsu massage pillows provide a passive massage while you sit in a chair, sit on a couch, lying in bed or driving a car. Also, they are compact and easy to carry around. Most of all, these massagers use heat and kneading to provide relief.

Quick Answer: Best Shiatsu Pillows for Neck, Shoulder and Back in 2020


1. Zyllion
2. VIKTOR JURGEN
3. Papillon
4. LiBa
5. MagicMakers
6. Arealer
7. MaxKare

Table of Contents


Quick Answer: Best Shiatsu Pillows for Neck, Shoulder and Back in 2020
7 Best Shiatsu Massage Pillows Reviews
Buyer's Guide for Massage Pillows
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

7 Best Shiatsu Massage Pillows Reviews

Editor’s Choice

1. Zyllion

Comparison of 7 Best Shiatsu Massage Pillows

Massager

Nodes

2-way Rotation

Speeds

Tie to Chair

Hand Controller

Warranty

A/A+ Feedback

1-5 Rating

1. Zyllion

4

Auto

1

Yes

None

1-year

86%

5.0

2. Viktor Jurgen

4

Manual

1

Yes

Yes

3-year

87%

4.7

3. Papillon

4

Auto

3

No

None

3-year

84%

4.6

4. LiBa

4

Auto

1

Yes

None

None

92%

4.4

5. MagicMakers

8

Auto

1

Yes

None

3-year

85%

4.8

6. Arealer

4 big; 4 small

Manual

3

No

None

2-year

94%

4.5

7. MaxKare

4

Auto

1

Yes

None

None

82%

4.3

1. Zyllion

Zyllion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager - Kneading Massage Pillow with Heat for Shoulders, Lower Back, Calf

massage pillows

Key Features

  1. 1
    First, the pillow comes with four powerful 3-dimensional deep-kneading shiatsu massage nodes.
  2. 2
    Second, the nodes automatically switch, every minute, between clockwise and counterclockwise rotations.
  3. 3
    Also, the heat can be easily turned on or off.
  4. 4
    Next, the pillow conforms to the body contours of the neck, lower and upper back, abdomen, calf, and thigh.
  5. 5
    Meanwhile, for anyone who is too sensitive, the sleeve reduces the heat or intensity of the massage.
  6. 6
    Incidentally, 20-minute sessions are recommended.
  7. 7
    Furthermore, this pillow can be used for massaging the neck, arms, shoulder, back, calf, thighs, and feet.
  8. 8
    Next, the plush textured leatherette is durable, soft, and easy to clean.
  9. 9
    Also, the massager has a breathable mesh area.Finally, the adjustable straps help to tie the massager around a chair or the car headrest/seat.

Other Features

  1. 1
    Dimensions: 13 inches wide, 9.5 inches high and 3.5 inches deep.
  2. 2
    Weight: Four pounds.
  3. 3
    FDA approved.
  4. 4
    Plugs into a car’s cigarette lighter.
  5. 5
    Plugs into a 110-120 volts or 220-240 volts electrical outlets.
  6. 6
    90-day money back guarantee. Company pays the cost of shipping.
  7. 7
    Finally, if pillow stops working within one year, the company will replace it at no cost.

Benefits

  1. 1
    First, the shiatsu massage nodes, relieve aches, and knots.
  2. 2
    Second, the massager relieves sore muscles.
  3. 3
    Third, the heat improves blood circulation to soothe aching muscles.
  4. 4
    Fourth, by improving blood circulation, the massager relaxes overused or tight muscles.
  5. 5
    Also, it relieves tense muscles.
  6. 6
    Finally, the massager can be used at home, in the office, or in a car.

PROS

  • First, four massage nodes alternately rotate clockwise and counter clockwise.
  • Second, a 90-day money back guarantee with company paying shipping cost.
  • Finally, a one-year replacement of failed massager.
Check price @Amazon

2. VIKTOR JURGEN

VIKTOR JURGEN Neck Massage Pillow - Shiatsu Deep Kneading Shoulder Back and Foot Massager with Heat

massage pillows

Key Features

  1. 1
    First, the pillow comes with four powerful 3-dimensional deep-kneading rotating shiatsu massage balls that deeply penetrate tissues and muscles. Moreover, these balls imitate a real hand massage.
  2. 2
    Second, the heat can be turned on or off using the hand controller. Moreover, the heat provides gentle warmth.
  3. 3
    Next, the pillow conforms to the body contours of the neck, shoulders, lower and upper back, abdomen, calf, and thigh.
  4. 4
    Meanwhile, a soft dust cloth covers the massager to protect the skin from getting in contact with the mesh like cover. Also, the cloth prevents the heated area from getting too warm. In addition, the dust cloth can be easily removed for cleaning.
  5. 5
    Furthermore, this pillow can be used for neck, shoulder, back, and feet.
  6. 6
    Also, the adjustable straps help to tie the massager around a chair, or the car headrest/seat.
  7. 7
    Finally, it comes with a tethered hand controller to turn power on or off, change direction of kneading, and turn heat on or off.

Other Features

  1. 1
    Dimensions: 17 inches wide, 14 inches high and 5 inches deep.
  2. 2
    Weight: 3.25 pounds.
  3. 3
    FDA approved.
  4. 4
    Also, it is equipped to avoid overheating. In fact, the heat turns off automatically at 80 degrees Celsius or 176 degrees Fahrenheit.
  5. 5
    Plugs into a car’s cigarette lighter.
  6. 6
    Plugs into a 110-120 volts or 220-240 volts electrical outlets.
  7. 7
    3-year replacement for massage failure due to quality-related issues.

Benefits

  1. 1
    First, the shiatsu massage nodes, relieve pain, aches, and knots.
  2. 2
    Second, the massager relaxes and massages neck and shoulders.
  3. 3
    Third, the heat improves blood circulation to soothe tired muscles and relieves aching muscles.
  4. 4
    Next, it relaxes overused or tight muscles.
  5. 5
    Also, it relieves tense muscles.
  6. 6
    Finally, the massager can be used at home, in the office, or in a car.

PROS

  • First, four massage nodes alternately rotate clockwise and counter clockwise.
  • Second, hand controller makes it easy to operate the pillow when you are driving a car.
  • ​Also, a massager that failed due to quality issues, in the first 3 years, will be replaced.
Check price @Amazon

3. Papillon

Papillon Back Massager with Heat, Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager with Deep Tissue Kneading, Electric Back Massage Pillow for Back, Neck,Shoulders,Legs, Foot

heating and kneading

Key Features

  1. 1
    First, the pillow comes with four powerful 3-dimensional massage nodes that give a comfortable deep tissue-kneading massage. In fact, the four nodes provide a powerful circular kneading massage that imitates the hands of a human massager.
  2. 2
    Second, the nodes automatically switch, every minute, between clockwise and counterclockwise rotations.
  3. 3
    Third, the Papillon massager’s three speed settings lets you control intensity for pain relief.
  4. 4
    Fourth, pressing a button turns the massager on or off, turns heat on or off, and turns on bi-directional rotations.
  5. 5
    Next, the optional infrared heating temperature of 113 degrees Fahrenheit is suitable for the human body. Consequently, it prevents low temperature burns.
  6. 6
    Also, the pillow conforms to the contours in various areas of the body.
  7. 7
    Incidentally, the massager automatically shuts off after 15 minutes of use.
  8. 8
    In addition, the massager uses a high-quality comfortable soft fabric that has a nice smell, and easier on the skin. Also, the high-grade durable material was selected for long term use.
  9. 9
    Finally, the massager can be used for the neck, shoulder, back, legs, and feet.

Other Features

  1. 1
    Dimensions: 12.4 inches wide, 7.5 inches high and 4.3 inches deep.
  2. 2
    Weight: 3.2 pounds.
  3. 3
    FDA and ROHS approved.
  4. 4
    Also, the massager designed to prevent overheating.
  5. 5
    Plugs into a car’s cigarette lighter.
  6. 6
    Plugs into a 110-120 volts or 220-240 volts electrical outlets.
  7. 7
    30-day money back service for any reason.
  8. 8
    3-year service for quality-related issues.

Benefits

  1. 1
    First, the heat massage relieves stress, pain, aches, and knots.
  2. 2
    Second, it relaxes the neck, back, shoulders, legs and foot muscles to relieve pain.
  3. 3
    Also, it relieves sore muscles.
  4. 4
    In addition, it relieves tense muscles.
  5. 5
    Furthermore, it relaxes tight muscles.
  6. 6
    Finally, the massager can be used at home, office, or in a car.

PROS

  • ​First, the nodes rotate at three speeds that you select. Meanwhile, these speeds effect massage intensity.
  • Second, infrared heating is an option. By the way, infrared heating prevents you from coming in contact with the source of heat.
  • Lastly, a free 3-year service for defects due to poor manufacturing quality.

CONS

  • Regrettably, there are no straps to fasten pillow to a chair or a car headrest/seat.
Check price @Amazon

4. LiBa

LiBa Cordless Shiatsu Neck Shoulder Back Massager with Heat and Rechargeable

massage pillows

Key Features

  1. 1
    First, the therapeutic massager uses four nodes to provide a deep kneading massage for effectively relieving pain and soothe sore muscles.
  2. 2
    Second, to get to all your sore muscles, the nodes automatically switch, every minute between clockwise and counterclockwise rotations.
  3. 3
    Also, the heat can be easily turned on or off.
  4. 4
    In addition, the massager warms up to 105 degrees Fahrenheit in 20 minutes.
  5. 5
    Furthermore, this pillow can be used for massaging the neck, shoulder, back, and leg.
  6. 6
    Meanwhile, adjustable straps help to tie the massager around a chair or the car’s headrest/seat.

Other Features

  1. 1
    First, the motor supports 250 pounds of weight.
  2. 2
    Second, this is a cordless heated massager. Also, it contains a rechargeable battery that lasts for up to 1.5 hours of use without a plug.
  3. 3
    Finally, it comes with a 90-day risk free trial.

Benefits

  1. 1
    First, it soothes sore muscles.
  2. 2
    Second, it soothes aching muscles.
  3. 3
    Third, the heat relaxes muscles and delivers the best therapeutic deep tissue massage that revitalizes you and leaves you free of pain.
  4. 4
    Also, it relieves pain.
  5. 5
    In addition, it relaxes tight muscles.
  6. 6
    Furthermore, it relieves tense muscles.
  7. 7
    Next, it relieves stiff neck, shoulder, lower back, upper back, and legs.
  8. 8
    Finally, it can be used at home, in the office, or in a car.

PROS

  • ​First, it runs on rechargeable batteries. So, there is no need to plug in the massager directly to an electric outlet or the car's cigarette lighter.
  • ​Also, you can try the massager for free in the first 90 days.

CONS

  • By the way, the heat is 105 degrees Fahrenheit, which may be inadequate for some folks.
  • Also, there is no warranty after the first 90 days.
Check price @Amazon

5. MagicMakers

MagicMakers Shiatsu Neck and Back Massager - 8 Heated Rollers Kneading Massage Pillow for Shoulders, Lower Back, Calf, Legs, Foot

3-D view

Key Features

  1. 1
    First, the pillow comes with eight powerful 3-dimensional deep-kneading shiatsu massage nodes to thoroughly massage muscles.
  2. 2
    Second, the nodes automatically switch, every minute, between clockwise and counterclockwise rotations. Consequently, the benefits of the massage are better distributed which, in turn, leads to a more thorough massage. Also, the built-in bi-directional rotations mimics motion of a human massager.
  3. 3
    Third, the on-off switch is also used to turn on and off the warm heat. Moreover, the warm heat helps you feel more relaxed and relieve pain better.
  4. 4
    Next, the pillow conforms perfectly to body contours of the neck, shoulders, upper back, lower back, waist, calves, foot, legs and arms.
  5. 5
    Meanwhile, the multifunctional cover gives a softer massage. Also, the high-quality textured leatherette is durable, soft to the touch and easy to clean.
  6. 6
    Incidentally the massager auto-shuts off after a 15-minute session.
  7. 7
    Furthermore, this pillow can be used for massaging the neck, shoulder, lower back, calf, legs, and feet.
  8. 8
    Finally, the very-elastic Velcro shoulder strap works with most chairs.

Other Features

  1. 1
    Dimensions: 13.7 inches wide, 8.6 inches high and 4.3 inches deep.
  2. 2
    Weight: 3.2 pounds.
  3. 3
    Over-heating protection. If the massager exceeds designed temperature, the safety device will automatically shut off the motor to ensure user's safety and prevent damage to the unit.
  4. 4
    Plugs into a car’s cigarette lighter.
  5. 5
    Plugs into a 110-120 volts or 220-240 volts electrical outlets.
  6. 6
    Extended 90-day money back guarantee.
  7. 7
    3-year replacement if anything happens to the massager.

Benefits

  1. 1
    First, the massager relieves muscle pain.
  2. 2
    Second, the massager relieves sore muscles.
  3. 3
    Third, it relieves stress.
  4. 4
    Also, it relieves fatigue.
  5. 5
    In addition, it helps you fall asleep.
  6. 6
    Next, it helps improve mood.
  7. 7
    Finally, the massager can be used at home, in the office, or in a car.

PROS

  • ​First, eight powerful 3-dimensional deep-kneading shiatsu massage nodes cover more of your body. So, you get a more thorough massage.
  • ​Next, the pillow has an extended 90-day money back guarantee. Moreover, if the massager becomes defective in the first three years, it will be replaced.
  • Lastly, a 3-year replacement if anything happens to the massager.
Check price @Amazon

6. Arealer

Arealer Neck and Back Massager Massage Pillow with Heat, Shiatsu and Deep Tissue Kneading for Shoulder, Neck, Back and Muscle Pain Relief

compact heat and kneading relief

Key Features

  1. 1
    First, the pillow comes with four big and 4 small nodes. Also, the massage roller uses U-shaped ergonomic design for a 3-dimensional rotary kneading.
  2. 2
    Second, it has four buttons. One to turn on and off the massager. Second to change direction of node rotations. Third to turn on and off heat. Lastly, to select one of three speeds for massage intensity.
  3. 3
    Third, it shuts off automatically after 15-minutes.
  4. 4
    Furthermore, it can be used for massaging the neck, shoulder, back, waist, arm, thigh, and calf.
  5. 5
    Next, the massager shawl uses a cushioned massage control shaft, which fit body contours during a massage. At the same time, the use of breathable materials on the inside and the choice of fashionable polyurethane leather for the surface provides a better experience.
  6. 6
    Finally, the back of the massager has fixed strap that can be used by your free hands to manage the massager.

Other Features

  1. 1
    Dimensions: 15.8 inches wide, 6.9 inches high and 6.7 inches deep.
  2. 2
    Weight: 3.1 pounds.
  3. 3
    Overheat protection.
  4. 4
    FDA and UL approved.
  5. 5
    Plugs into a car’s cigarette lighter.
  6. 6
    Plugs into a 110-120 volts or 220-240 volts electrical outlets.
  7. 7
    30-day full refund after returning undamaged product.
  8. 8
    Finally, a 2-year guarantee for quality-related issues with the massager.

Benefits

  1. 1
    First, the massager relieves sore muscles. Indeed, the heat soothes muscles and improves blood circulation.
  2. 2
    Next, it releases stress.
  3. 3
    Finally, it can be used at home, in the office, or in a car.

PROS

  • First, it has four big nodes and 4 small nodes. Consequently, you will get a better massage.
  • Second, the nodes rotate at three speeds that you select. Meanwhile, these speeds effect massage intensity.
  • ​Third, the strap located at the back of the massager allows you to hold the massager while you massage your body.
  • ​Lastly, the massager has a 2-year guarantee for quality-related issues.

CONS

  • However, there are no straps for fastening pillow to a chair or car seat/headrest.
Check price @Amazon

7. MaxKare

MaxKare Back Massager Neck Massager Massage Pillow with Heat, Shiatsu and Deep Tissue Kneading Massager for Cervical, Shoulder, Waist, Muscle Pain Relief

kneading & heating

Key Features

  1. 1
    First, the pillow comes with four 3-dimensional deep tissue kneading shiatsu rotating massage nodes.
  2. 2
    Second, the nodes automatically switch, every minute, between clockwise and counterclockwise rotations.
  3. 3
    Third, the ergonomic construction allows the pillow to perfectly fit body contours of the neck, shoulders, arms, waist, lower and upper back, abdomen, calf, and thigh.
  4. 4
    Also, the massager has a breathable mesh fabric with soft good quality polyurethane leather to provide a comfortable massage. Also, the polyurethane leather is easy to clean. By the way, the breathable mesh helps the heat penetrate your body. In addition, if the massager is too rough, you can place a towel between you and the massager.
  5. 5
    Furthermore, a single button used to turn on the massager, turn on the heat, and turn off the massager.
  6. 6
    Next, it shuts off automatically after 15-minutes.
  7. 7
    Furthermore, this pillow can be used for massaging the neck, shoulder, upper and lower back, lumbar, abdomen, waist, calf, and thighs.
  8. 8
    Finally, the adjustable elastic on the back of the massage pillow allows it to be fastened on a chair or a car seat.

Other Features

  1. 1
    Dimensions: 12.8 inches wide, 4.33 inches high and 7.09 inches deep.
  2. 2
    Weight: 2.8 pounds.
  3. 3
    FDA and UL approved.
  4. 4
    Equipped to avoid overheating.
  5. 5
    Plugs into a car’s cigarette lighter.
  6. 6
    Plugs into a 110-120 volts or 220-240 volts electrical outlets.

Benefits

  1. 1
    First, the massage nodes effectively relieve body pain and improve blood circulation.
  2. 2
    Second, the massager relaxes overused and tight muscles.
  3. 3
    Next, it relieves stress.
  4. 4
    Finally, it can be used at home, in the office, or in a car.

PROS

  • First, four massage nodes alternately rotate clockwise and counter clockwise.

CONS

  • However, there is no warranty.
Check price @Amazon

Buyer's Guide for Massage Pillows

Hand Controller

First, the hand controller is very helpful to manage the pillow, if you use this pillow in a car. For example, you can turn it off or on while you are driving.

Heat

Next, when heat is applied, it causes the soft tissue, near the skin, to relax and become more supple. Also, the heat results in an increase of blood flow to the area. In addition, the heated skin stimulates sensors and blocks pain signals from being sent to the brain. By the way, infrared heat goes deeper into the tissue.

Intensity

By the way, the intensity of the massage is driven by the speed of rotation of the balls.

Kneading with Massage Nodes or Balls

Furthermore, this massager uses nodes or balls to create a deep tissue kneading massage. Also, balls of different sizes help create a better kneading massage than if the balls were of different size. By the way, kneading is used to remove knots in muscles.

Rotations

Moreover, nodes or balls that can rotate both clockwise and counterclockwise provide a better massage than those rotating in only one direction.

Shiatsu

Finally, shiatsu is a Japanese massage technique somewhat done by the changing rotating direction of the balls, as they try to replicate the hand movement of a masseuse.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Shiatsu Massage Pillows Safe?

For the most part they are very safe. However, do not use these massagers in the following situations.

  1. 1
    First, if you have a pacemaker or other medical implants in your body.
  2. 2
    Second, do not use longer than 30 minutes without a break.Third, if you have influenza, heart problem, fatal disease, abnormally bending spine, and serious foot blood circulation disorder.
  3. 3
    Finally, if you are pregnant, menstruating or in poor physical condition.

And, if in doubt, always discuss with your medical provider before using these massagers.

Are There Precautions to Take when Using These Massage Pillows?

While these massage pillows are safe, there are precautions to consider. For example, to reduce risk of burns, fire, electric shock, or injury, follow the precautions listed below.

Electrical
  1. 1
    First, always unplug the pillow from the electrical outlet immediately after using and before cleaning.
  2. 2
    Second, the pillow should never be left unattended when plugged in. In fact, unplug the massage pillow from the electric outlet when it is not used and before putting on or taking off parts.
  3. 3
    Third, do not carry the pillow by its power cord or use the power cord as a handle.
  4. 4
    Also, to disconnect, switch off the massage pillow and remove the plug from outlet.
  5. 5
    In addition, keep the cord away from heated surface, otherwise it may cause serious burns. Do not use over sensitive skin areas or in the presence of poor circulation.
  6. 6
    Next, the pillow must only be used with voltage specified on the marked label.
  7. 7
    Furthermore, the pillow is only to be used with the power supply unit that came with it.
  8. 8
    Finally, never operate the pillow if it has a damaged cord or plug, if it is not working properly, if it has been dropped or damaged, or if it has dropped into water. In fact, return the pillow to a service center for examination and repair.
Other
  1. 1
    First, do not use the massage pillow under a blanket, otherwise excessive heat can occur, which might cause fire, electric shock, or injury.
  2. 2
    Second, never use the pillow with the air openings blocked. Furthermore, keep the air openings free of lint, hair, or anything else.
  3. 3
    Third, do not drop or insert any object into any opening of the pillow.
  4. 4
    Also, do not use the pillow where aerosol (spray) products are being used or where oxygen is administered.
  5. 5
    In addition, close supervision is necessary when the pillow is used by children, invalids and the disabled or used near them to ensure that they do not misuse the pillow.
  6. 6
    Furthermore, the pillow has a heated surface. Consequently, persons insensitive to heat must be careful when using it.
  7. 7
    Next, these pillows are not intended for persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or persons lacking experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of it by a person responsible for their safety.
  8. 8
    Also, special attention should be given to components that wear easily and it's advised to replace defective components immediately and/or keep the pillow out of use until repair.
  9. 9
    Finally, use these massage pillows only for their intended use as described in their manual.

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About the Author Lisa