Best Massage Pillow – Shiatsu Neck, Back, Legs and Body Massaging Pillows to Relieve Pain, Stress and Sore Muscles

A massaging pillow is ideal to relieve pain, pressure, and discomfort in various parts of the body, particularly the neck and shoulder area. The muscles in these areas are usually the most problematic ones, especially if you spend a lot of time in front of a computer – either at work or home. For this review, we selected 5 excellent massaging pillows from some of the best brands out there. Keep in mind, we also have reviews on massage cushions, massage chairs and even massage tables (if you are a professional) available on our site.

For our featured products we chose a variety of neck massage pillows and back massage pillow that offer Shiatsu-like movements. Depending upon the model, this can be either vibration, rolling, pulsating, or kneading motions. And some models offer multiple options, as well as heat. However, we also understand that for some people, what you want is a pillow that provides therapeutic support — either instead of a “massaging” pillow, or for when relaxing and sleeping. So, we went ahead and showcased some of our favorites below. Enjoy!


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Overview
PROS
CONS
SPECS
Good for
Heat function
Color
Material
Size
Our Top Choice
Full Body Heated Shiatsu Massage Pillow
1byone makes a plethora of products, from massaging devices to Bluetooth turntables and similar electronics. Its products are always reasonably priced.
Easy to use. Heat function. Can be used for neck, legs, arms, back and shoulder. Comes with 12-month warranty.
The rotating nodes might be a bit uncomfortable at first, but this is normal when using a Shiatsu massager.
Neck, shoulder, back, arms, legs
Yes
Black
PU leather cover, mesh cloth
15.8 x 6.7 x 6.9 inches
Best Value
HealthmateForever Vibrating Massage Pillow
HealthmateForever focuses on massaging devices and pain-relief systems. Its products can be used to alleviate pains from neck, back, legs and arms.
Available in multiple colors. Acts as a decorative pillow. No cords or controllers required. Good for massaging the neck, back, arms and legs.
The batteries are not included.
Neck, lumbar support
No
11 colors available
Foam
14 x 14 inches
Zyllion Neck & Back Shiatsu Massage Pillow
Zyllion manufactures massaging pillows and cushions in various sizes and colors. Its products are safe and usually incorporate heating functions
Available in multiple colors. Easy to use. Gives a deep Shiatsu massage. Comes with straps and car adapter.
Some questions over reliability, but warranty covers this.
Neck, shoulder, back, arms, legs
Yes
5 colors available
PU leather
13 x 2.4 x 9.5 inches
Homedics 3D Vibrating Shiatsu Massage Pillow
Homedics specializes in massaging devices and relaxation machines. Its products can be used at home, in the office, in your car or in a professional spa.
Easy to use. Comfortable. Soothing heat function. Integrated controls. Delivers a deep, rejuvenating massage.
Some pillows arrived defective, but they were replaced quickly.
Neck, shoulder, back, arms, legs
Yes
Yellow
Plush fabric, quilted pillow
10 x 16.5 x 4.3 inches
Naipo Shiatsu Neck & Back Massage Pillow
Naipo strives to provides its customers with affordable and sophisticated massaging options. Its products target specific muscle groups to alleviate pain and discomfort.
Compact and lightweight. Can be used at home, in office or car. Heating function. Delivers a deep, invigorating massage.
Some consider the massage a bit rough, but Naipo has other devices which deliver a more comfortable massage experience.
Neck, shoulder, back, arms, legs
Yes
Black
PU leather
12.8 x 3.9 x 7.9 inches

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What Is the Best Shiatsu Massage Pillow? Read Our Massage Pillow Reviews!

Choosing an ideal massage pillow is not hard. You just have to assess your needs and come up with the correct budget. Now you know the basics, let's look at the 5 pillows we chose for this review.

Related: Get a Massage Chair and Relax in the Comfort of Your Own Home!
Our Top Choice
The Shiatsu Deep-Kneading Massager from 1byone features an infrared heating setting which helps your muscles relax and relieves pains. This massage pillow is ideal for neck, back or leg use. Shopping for a massage pillow that will do your entire back, neck, hips and buttocks at the same time? The Comfier Shiatsu Massage Chair Pad offers heat, rolling and kneading options and is perfect for your desk chair or car – or anywhere you want to sit for a home massage!

Shiatsu Pillow Massager - Neck Back Shoulder Massage with Heat Deep Tissue Kneading for Full Body Muscle Pain Relief Portable Relaxation in Car Home and Office


Features

1byone is a prestigious manufacturer which makes a wide variety of products such as massaging devices, antennas and even Bluetooth turntables. This is not the first time we are reviewing a product from 1byone as we featured its other massaging systems in other reviews on our site. 1byone goes the extra mile to provide its customers with easy-to-use and practical massaging options and that’s why we appreciate this company.

For example, the Shiatsu Deep-Kneading Massager is a reliable product which features 8 massaging nodes that give you a deep, relaxing Shiatsu-style massage. On top of that, you could also benefit from the heating function which alleviates pain and relaxes your muscles even more.

This pillow can be used for relieving neck pressure as well as giving your back and arms a deep, thorough and invigorating massage. You can even use it in your car while going to work. The pillow is equipped with an auto-off feature to preserve energy and it comes with a 12-month warranty period.

Best Value
The Pressure Activated Massage Pillow from HealthmateForever is available in multiple colors and makes use of gentle vibrations to relax different body parts such as your neck or lower back. If you need a similar pillow for massaging your legs, we recommend the Pressure Activated Pulsating Pillow from the same brand.

HealthmateForever Pressure Activated Massage Pillow - High Quality Vibrating Massage Pillow for Stiff Neck Relief, Lumbar Support and Back Support


Features

HealthmateForever is a company making different types of massaging devices such as pillows, as well as electronic handheld gadgets designed for pain relief. If you have certain pains in your neck or back area, you can use the products from HealthmateForever to improve your condition and alleviate discomfort. On top of that, this brand also makes high-quality insoles for both men and women, designed to improve circulation and reduce feet soreness.

For now, let's focus on the Pressure Activated Massage Pillow from HealthmateForever and discover its strong points. This pillow is available in 11 colors such as red, burgundy, brown, purple and more. It is powered by two D-type batteries and it sends gentle vibrations to help relax muscles and alleviate chronic pains and soreness.

It’s filled with foam and features a durable, soft cover, so it will be comfortable to use. You can also select between 2 massaging modes (slow and fast) and the pillow sends vibrations when it detects pressure. The main advantage of this pillow is that it requires no cords or controllers and it can even act as a decorative pillow!

The Shiatsu Pillow Massager from Zyllion is available in 5 colors and it is ideal for relieving sore muscles and mild body pains. Similarly, you could go for this Shiatsu Neck and Back Massage Pillow which also includes multipurpose straps, giving you a more customized massage experience!

Zyllion Shiatsu Back and Neck Massager - Kneading Massage Pillow with Heat for Shoulders, Lower Back, Calf, Use at Home and Car, 3 Colors


Features

Zyllion is another brand specialized in massaging systems and just like 1byone, this is not the first time we’re reviewing its products. Zyllion strives to bring moments of relaxation and comfort into modern people's lives. It creates a wide variety of massaging devices which target specific muscle groups or body parts such as the neck, shoulders, arms or legs. Whether you go for massaging pillows or massaging cushions, a Zyllion product will give you a great massage!

Let's take a look at the Shiatsu Pillow Massager from Zyllion and see what it can do. This model is available in 5 color options such as black, champagne, brown, pink and slate. It features a heating function which can actually improve your massage experience and help your muscles relax faster and more thoroughly.

This pillow is equipped with deep-kneading massaging nodes which will give you a genuine, rejuvenating Shiatsu massage every time. In the package, you will also find a car adapter and straps to help you enjoy a better and more personalized massage.

he Shiatsu Plus Vibration Massage Pillow from Homedics is wrapped in a plush fabric and features 4 massaging nodes, delivering a relaxing and rejuvenating massage every time. HoMedics also makes a wide variety of massage pillow cushions, as well as this 3D Shiatsu Massaging Lounge Chair with 3 zones, 2 intensity settings and heat.

Homedics 3D Shiatsu & Vibration Massage Pillow with Heat - Vibration Reaches Deeper Tissues and Organs, Creates Sense of Full-Body Relaxation


Features

Homedics is known for making high-quality electronics, particularly massaging systems, relaxation machines and even alarm clocks. Many of the products made by this brand are bestsellers and they come at reasonable prices. Homedics puts an emphasis on comfort and relaxation when it designs its products and that’s why we included this company in our review.

When it comes to relaxation, few pillows can be equal to the Shiatsu Plus Vibration Massage Pillow from Homedics. This device incorporates massaging nodes which deliver an invigorating Shiatsu massage for your neck, back, shoulders and other body parts.

Best of all, the pillow itself is made from soft foam covered with plush fabric, so it will be really comfortable to sit on while receiving your massage. To top it off, this pillow also has a soothing heat function which will make your massage even more relaxing and rejuvenating. The controls of this pillow are integrated, so you don’t need a remote to operate the device.

The Neck Pillow Massager from Naipo is ideal for your neck and shoulders and its heating function can improve blood circulation as well. If you prefer a massaging pillow which is made from memory foam, check out the Lower Back Massager from Naipo. This pillow can also be used for massaging your feet, neck or shoulders.

Naipo Shiatsu Neck Back Massager Massage Pillow with Heat, Deep Tissue Kneading Massager for Shoulder, Lower Back, Leg, Foot, Muscle Pain Relief


Features

Naipo is another brand focused on massaging devices such as pillows, cushions and others. Its products are intended to deliver a soothing massage to your neck, shoulders, back or legs in a comfortable and effortless manner. Naipo also makes handheld massagers if you want to target specific muscle groups in your body and alleviate pressure and pains.

The Neck Pillow Massager from Naipo is designed to deliver a deep Shiatsu massage, thanks to its incorporated massaging nodes which can be heated up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. This heating function can improve blood circulation and completely relaxes your neck and shoulder muscles.

The pillow is also backed up by a warranty period of 2 years and it can be used almost anywhere, thanks to its portable and lightweight design. For example, you can use it at your home, in your car or even at your office and some users report that it works wonders for massaging your calves as well. All that you have to do is to just give it a try and see if it is true!

Shiatsu Massage Pillow Buying Guide – What to Look for in a Neck Massage Pillow, Back Massage Pillow or Full Body Massage Pillow

We’re sure you’re aware of the benefits of a good massage, so there’s no need to emphasize them again here. Thanks to modern technology, you can enjoy a good massage almost anywhere as there are massaging seats installed in modern vehicles, special bathtubs which provide hydro-massage and many other massaging devices and systems such as foot massagers, body massagers and back massagers.

Even better, such massaging tools are not that expensive nowadays and can be used to alleviate mild discomfort, pains and soreness from various body parts such as your neck, shoulders, arms or legs. If you don’t have time to go to a professional spa where therapeutic massages are given, one of these devices can actually save your day and lots of money as an added benefit!

We will go ahead and focus on massaging pillows in this guide. Keep in mind that these pillows are primarily designed for the neck and shoulder area, but you can successfully use them to massage your lower back, calves or thighs as well.

Video: Relieve Muscle Tension with a Shiatsu Massage Pillow

Benefits of Using a Shiatsu Massage Pillow. | Courtesy of AskDoctorJo
Price

Let's start with the price since this is probably the most important aspect. The price range for a good massage pillow starts around 20 dollars and it can go up to 40 or even 50 dollars for a unit which provides therapeutic heat. Obviously, the more sophisticated the device, the more expensive it is and as an example, some high-end devices can cost as much as a hundred dollars. However, if you just want a good massage on a regular basis, you probably won't need to spend that much on a massaging pillow.

You will also find a plethora of cheap massage pillows on the market, but we think they don’t deserve your money because they are usually flimsy, not backed up by a warranty and provide poor results. If relaxation is really important to you, we don’t think it’s a problem spending a couple of extra bucks buying a high-quality massage pillow.

Features

Now we’ve covered the price aspect, let's move on to the actual features massage pillows come with. If this is the first time when you are buying a pillow, read this section carefully.

  • Areas targeted - as we mentioned earlier, massage pillows are designed for massaging your neck and shoulders, but some massaging tools out there can also work wonders for your lower back area as well as your legs and even arms
  • Massaging types or modes - each pillow usually supports different types of massaging modes such as more gentle, vigorous, Shiatsu massage and others
  • Therapeutic heat function - this one doesn’t need a lot of explanations, it refers to the simple fact that the massaging device also feeds soothing heat to the body part being massaged, enhancing the relaxation and rejuvenation process. When it comes to this feature, it’s a "shut up and take my money" type of decision for us!
  • Portability - some massaging devices are really lightweight and compact and they can be used in your car, at home or in your office. Make sure your boss is ok with this and you don’t accidentally doze off while having a massage at work!

Now you have enough aspects to think about and consider your needs. If you want to be relaxed everywhere, get a massaging device which is portable and lightweight. If you suffer from aches in multiple body parts, go for a more versatile unit which can massage your neck, shoulders, back, arms and legs, etc.

Construction and Design

When it comes to construction, there isn’t much to talk about other than the fact that most massaging pillows are usually made from polyurethane leather and they usually come with adjustable straps for those moments when you want to get a more customized and personalized massage experience. Some massaging pillows are actually pillows, meaning that the vibrating motors inside which provide the massage are covered with foam and soft fabrics and they are activated by pressure.

We also need to mention that many massaging pillows provide a Shiatsu massage which is more invigorating and rejuvenating. These pillows usually have several rotating nodes (4, 6 or 8) which provide a totally different massage each time and can be heated to a temperature close to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If you love Shiatsu massages, these are the pillows for you.

Video: The Physical Benefits of Massage Therapy

Trigger Points, Cupping and Deep Tissue Massage. | Courtesy of Modern Aging - Holistic Health and Wealth After 45
Performance and Ease of Use

As mentioned at the beginning of the article, some of these pillows have several modes to choose from such as gentler massages or more invigorating ones. Some of the devices are powered by batteries while others come with adapters and can be connected to a standard power outlet.

Bear in mind these pillows also come with warranty periods of 1 or 2 years. This is important to know should you accidentally experience problems with your unit. Go for a pillow which offers a lengthy warranty period and you will have more peace of mind!


Get the Best Massage Pillow of 2023!

A good massage can be better than any medicine and nowadays you don’t have to go to a spa to enjoy one. You can use one of these massaging pillows and completely relax your neck and shoulders in the comfort of your own home. Pick your favorite pillow and you will thank us afterwards!

Our Top Choice
Full Body Heated Shiatsu Massage Pillow
Best Value
HealthmateForever Vibrating Massage Pillow
Zyllion Neck & Back Shiatsu Massage Pillow
Homedics 3D Vibrating Shiatsu Massage Pillow
Naipo Shiatsu Neck & Back Massage Pillow

Massage Pillow FAQs

How to use a shiatsu massage pillow?
You can use a shiatsu massage pillow by letting it rest on should neck and shoulders. Then, you only have to lean back on your chair and let the massage pillow get to work. Alternatively, you may lie down on your chest if that’s how you prefer having your massage. Whatever you do, avoid lying down on the massager since that will only apply unnecessary pressure on the device. If you want, you can use the massager while on the commute in your car. Please turn it on after placing it on your shoulders. Check out our buying guide for more information on massage pillows.
How often can you a massage pillow?
How often you should use a massage pillow depends on your physical needs. If you are in pain or stressed, you may have to use the massage pillow often. As such, you can use the device as regularly as every day, once a week, or every two weeks. In short, it is as often as you would like to enjoy the benefits of the massage pillow.
How long to use a massage pillow?
You should use a massage pillow for 15 minutes at a time. The good thing is that some massage pillows come with an auto shut off function that turns it off. If yours doesn’t have the feature, then you should manually turn it off after 15 minutes. That should be enough time for you to reap the benefits of the massage until the next session.