15 Best Massage Guns That Will Melt Away Neck and Shoulder Pain
Treat yourself with these Memorial Day sales!
These days, many of us suffer from knotted muscles in our necks and shoulders. Stress, trouble sleeping, and hours spent hunched in front of a computer can all add up to tense shoulders, cricks in the neck, and chronic discomfort. That could be one reason that the best massage guns for neck and shoulder pain are so popular these days — and we’ve rounded up 13 best-selling massage guns for neck and shoulder pain with rave reviews from happy customers.
Since heading to the spa for a massage isn’t feasible for everyone right now, why not treat yourself to a massage gun that can do the same job at home — at a more affordable price? Sure, these tools might seem pricey, but if you’re watching your wallet, you know that spa treatments can add up. Over time, you’ll see the value of a therapeutic massage gun, as it helps save money — and eases neck and shoulder pain! (Looking for the best massage guns for back pain? We found those, too!)
Please note: You should never use a massage therapy gun on your neck. To help relieve neck pain, use the massager only on the muscles in your shoulders and back.
Keep scrolling to shop our picks, or read more to find out answers to some frequently asked questions about massage guns for neck and shoulder pain!
- Best deal on massage therapy gun for neck and shoulder pain : Ekrin B37 Percussion Massager
- Best Theragun massage therapy gun for neck and shoulder pain : Therabody Theragun PRO
- Best budget massage gun for neck and shoulder pain : Youdgee Muscle Massage Gun
- Best quiet massage gun for neck and shoulder pain : Therabody Theragun Elite
- Best Timtam massage therapy gun for neck and shoulder pain : TimTam Power Massager
- Best lightweight massage gun for neck and shoulder pain : Mebak Massager Gun Deep Tissue Percussion
- Best neck and shoulder deep massage gun : RENPHO Handheld Back Massager
- Best massage gun for neck and shoulder pain under $100 : CHIROGUN Massage Gun
- Best Hypervolt massage gun for neck and shoulder pain : Hyperice Hypervolt Bluetooth-Percussion Massage Device
- Best portable massage gun for neck and shoulder pain : TaoTronics Deep Tissue Percussion Muscle Massager PRO with IC Chip Control
What is the best muscle massage gun?
Before you can decide which massage gun for neck and shoulder pain is right for you, you need to know what a massage gun actually is. These tools were once seen primarily as fitness equipment, because they were used by professional athletes and physical therapists who treat them. They are designed to decrease muscle soreness and improve overall range of motion. (The best CBD oils for pain can also help with these issues.) Massage guns use “percussive therapy” (better known as vibration) to target specific areas and provide quick bursts of pressure that penetrate deep into your muscle tissue, relaxing those muscles and easing pain.
The best massage guns for neck and shoulder pain will increase blood flow to sore spots, helping to reduce inflammation and break up stubborn knots. Adjustable speed settings help ensure you get exactly the amount of pressure you want, and interchangeable head attachments are useful for different areas of the body.
There are many types of massage guns, and the best one for you will depend on your budget, whether you’re looking for something quiet, portable, heavy duty, or higher end, like the pros use. Our selection covers all of these options, so you’re sure to find the best one for you!
Can you use a massage gun on your neck?
While a massage gun can absolutely help relieve neck pain, it’s very important that, as noted above, you never actually use the tool on your neck. Rather, use it on your shoulders and back, which will help relieve tension in your neck, and can help with headaches as well. Relaxing the muscles that support your head and neck is the key.
Speaking to The Washington Post, physician Alan Novick, chief of the Memorial Rehabilitation Institute in Hollywood, Florida, warned of the dangers of using a massage therapy gun on your neck. ““You could literally get a carotid dissection,” he said. Or in layman’s terms, a tear in the carotid artery. This could interfere with blood flow to the brain, and ultimately could cause a stroke.
Novick also advises people not to use massage guns anywhere that they are experiencing dulled sensation. This is a concern in particular for those with diabetes, who may have what’s called peripheral neuropathy, or lack of feeling in certain body parts. “If you have neuropathy, you’re not feeling that you’re potentially hurting yourself,” Novick explained.
What is the best massager for neck and shoulder pain?
Most massage therapy guns are great for muscles all over your body, so whether you’re looking to relieve back pain, neck and shoulder pain, leg cramps, or other nagging aches and soreness, you can use the same tool. The best way to know whether a particular massage gun will work for you is to read reviews and test it out for yourself. Be sure to check the return policy on the massage gun you are considering: Many companies offer money-back guarantees, so if you don’t love the one you choose, you have nothing to lose.
Is Theragun good for neck pain?
If you’ve been looking at different massage therapy gun options, you’re likely familiar with the brand name Theragun (now called Therabody). These massage guns have a dedicated following and are among the best you can buy. Other great brands include Hypervolt, and Vybe. All of them are great options for neck and shoulder pain, but if you’re set on a Theragun, consider the Therabody Theragun PRO (Buy on Therabody, $599). It’s a high-powered, best-in-class tool that’s sure to melt away knots and feel amazing on your stiff, tired muscles.
No matter which massage therapy gun you choose, relief will soon be on the way! Keep scrolling to shop our picks for the best massage guns for neck and shoulder pain.
What are the best massage guns for neck and shoulder pain?
Ekrin B37 Percussion Massager
Best deal on massage therapy gun for neck and shoulder pain
Buy from Ekrin Athletics, $229.99
Use code “womansworld20” for an exclusive 20 percent discount!
Why we like it:
- Ultra quiet technology
- 8-hour battery life
- Ergonomic design
I can speak about this massage gun from experience (it’s the one I actually have at home), and I have to say, I love it! I’ll admit I was a little worried I wouldn’t know how to use a massage therapy gun (also known as a percussion massager), but the Ekrin B37 is incredibly simple to set up and intuitive to use. It really is ultra quiet, like they say, and the ergonomic design makes it easy to hold and operate. It comes with five different attachments and speeds, so you can massage your back, hips, thighs, calves, shoulders, and anything else that’s hurting. The relief is immediate — it truly does feel amazing. There’s even a zippered travel case included, so it’s easy to take with you anywhere you need it, and the sleek design is actually quite cute! Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
Happy customer: “I get tendinitis in my left shoulder and muscle knots in my lower back from lifting kids, working out, and general life. The Ekrin gives me almost instant relief from pain and reduces the size of the muscle knots after 30-60 seconds of use. It’s also amazing for a post-workout massage and speeds 4 and 5 are able to get deep enough to give you an actual massage experience.”
CHIROGUN Massage Gun
Best massage gun for neck and shoulder pain under $100
Buy from Amazon, $59.99 (was $99.99) – Save $5 with coupon on Amazon!
Why we like it:
- Has 15 changeable heads and 2 massage balls
- Choose between 30 different speeds
- Uses noise reduction technology
Another great choice for less than $100, the Chirogun comes with 15 different heads and operates at 30 speeds! It charges quickly, holds a charge for a long time (one full charge lasts six hours), is quiet thanks to noise-reducing technology, and comes with a carrying case so you can take it with you anywhere you go (along with all those attachments!). Almost 3,000 five-star ratings on Amazon are enough to sell us on this massage gun — and a rave review from a professional massage therapist helps, too!
Happy customer: “”I happen to be a LMT (licensed massage therapist) and have used a couple other massage guns owned by my athlete clients, so I have worked with both a pro-grade and home grade-gun … I really like the carrying case this gun comes in. It’s compact and durable, comfortable to carry. The gun itself looks sleek, feels good in the hand, not cheap or too heavy. The handle has a nice soft grip. The digital power controls are easy to navigate. It’s a simple gun, definitely not as powerful as the professional level guns I have used, but it also costs a fifth of what they sell for. My kids and husband all enjoy using it and have been asking me to treat their achy spots with it. I probably will not bring it to my office to use on clients but we will definitely use it at home! Overall I think it’s a great, solid, easy-to-use massage device for personal use for the money.”
Youdgee Muscle Massage Gun
Best budget massage gun for neck and shoulder pain
Buy from Amazon, $59.49 (was $99.99)
Why we like it:
- Six different speeds
- Comes with massage heads for lower back, joints, thighs, and more
- On sale now
This budget-friendly massage therapy gun is a great way to treat your shoulders to a deep tissue massage whenever you need one. Six different speeds are adjustable, depending where your target zones are, and you can change the head of the massager to work on different parts of the body, including the lower back, joints, palms, thighs, and more.
Happy customer: “Honestly, I wasn’t a believer in massage guns until I tried this. The attachments are really satisfying when you want to hit a different places on your body. Don’t jump to the highest speed until your’e used to it!”
TimTam Power Massager
Best Timtam massage therapy gun for neck and shoulder pain
Why we like it:
- 90-degree articulating head gets to hard-to-reach spots
- Comes with a carrying case and portable charger
- Deep tissue massage relieves pain in as little as one minute
Wherever you are, you can quickly ease your back pain and go about your business. The TimTam Power Massager comes with a carrying case and portable charger and can relieve soreness in just sixty seconds, thanks to its deep tissue massage settings. Trusted by professional athletes and physical therapists for years, the TimTam is right up there with the Theragun PRO in devotees, but its lower price point makes it more budget-friendly. Fair warning: Reviewers say this is one of the louder massage guns out there.
Happy customer: “This thing is amazing. I knew it was expensive, so I was nervous about being disappointed. The first thing I did was use it on my neck and shoulders. The next day, I felt really sore in the areas that I used it, so I thought maybe it was going to be a disappointing purchase. I took a day off and persisted after that. I get better and better, and I’m always finding new places to use the device on. My only real complaint is the noise. This thing is LOUD. I still consider it worth it, and maybe it is a testament to how strong this thing is. Once I start up with this thing I don’t want to stop. It’s honestly a great way to spend down time. Not only does it feel good, but I am improving the condition of my shoulders so much that weight lifting has become easier and the joint pain is diminishing.”
TaoTronics Deep Tissue Percussion Muscle Massager PRO with IC Chip Control
Best portable massage gun for neck and shoulder pain
Buy from TaoTronics, $49.99 (was $69.99)
Why we like it:
- Has an LED display
- Comes 6 with interchangeable heads
- Weighs 1.6 pounds
With 20 different speeds, this TaoTronics massage gun will provide exactly the amount of pressure you want, and allow you to work up to deeper levels of muscle massage when you’re ready. Like others on our list, it’s light and portable, comes with a variety of massage heads, and offers a way to break up lactic acid accumulation (that’s the stuff that makes your muscles sore) and help you relax. Best of all, its long-lasting battery allows for up to 10 hours of use on a full charge.
Happy customer: “I spent hours researching for my first massage gun and ended up with this one for its light weight and long battery life. I can only say I am so glad I made that choice. I have been using this every day for about two weeks and absolutely like it. It is very light and for the past two weeks I was using, I only had to charge it once. I like how it has 20 steps of strength, unlike other products that usually have only 3 settings. It definitely relieves my muscle pains and I use it in the morning to refresh. It comes with a nice carrying case and everything is so compact and sleek. I can’t wait to use it on my future trips and highly recommend others to give this one a try!“
Therabody Theragun PRO
Best Theragun massage therapy gun for neck and shoulder pain
Why we like it:
- The one the pros use
- Two-year warranty
- Durable and powerful
The Therabody Theragun PRO is the massage therapy gun professional physical therapists most often turn to. It’s a top-of-the-line, go-to choice for back pain, or really any other type of ache, twinge, or muscle soreness you might have. If you have the budget and want to invest in a therapy gun that will ease your stress and tension as well as melt away neck and shoulder pain, you can’t do better than this one.
Happy customer: “I’ve suffered from chronic muscle pain for the past 15 years due to a car accident. Nothing has helped to relieve the pain. The Theragun changed everything. In conjunction with daily stretching and PT exercises, I have never felt better. The triangle handle design makes it easier to reach those awkward places. If you are on the fence about purchasing, just do it. I don’t think that you will be disappointed.”
RENPHO Handheld Back Massager
Best neck and shoulder deep massage gun
Buy from Amazon, $39.99 (was $49.99) – Save 15% off with coupon on Amazon!
Why we like it:
- Lasts up to 140 minutes fully charged
- Comes with 5 different attachable heads
- Helps relax shoulders, neck, back, arms, and more
Get spa-like treatment for your muscles with a deep tissue massage. This massage gun aims to deeply penetrate targeted areas to help relieve pain in your neck, shoulders, back, and more. Customize the experience using one of the five interchangeable heads and enjoy a fully charged massage for up to 140 minutes. This cordless design was made to hit hard-to-reach areas with getting wrapped around a pesky cord.
Happy customer: “I did some research before deciding [on] the Renpho massager. It seemed to have the power I was looking for, five different head attachments, different speeds, and modes, but what made me buy it was the fact that its rechargeable [and] easy to use. … This massager exceeded all my expectations. It felt amazing and gave me the relief I need. From my back, thighs, calves, and arms, this handheld massager gets the work done.”
Therabody Theragun Elite
Best quiet massage gun for neck and shoulder pain
Why we like it:
- Sound insulation technology keeps it quiet
- Customizable speed options
- More affordable option than the Theragun PRO
The Therabody Thergun Elite costs $200 less than the PRO — and while it’s easier on your wallet, it packs just as much pain-soothing power as the pricier model. Plus, this deep-muscle treatment was made with sound insulation technology, so you can enjoy a therapeutic massage without the loud noise of some therapy guns. The customizable speed options allow you to choose how intense you want your massage to be.
Happy customer: “My chronic pain started with a shoulder injury. That pain is around 95 percent gone after the Theragun … [I tried] physical therapy, I tried the hot tub which got me by for years, I strengthened the muscles, tried acupuncture, massage therapy, then found yoga … the Theragun has changed everything. I would still have days where I would just lie on the floor in pain [because] standing and sitting aggravated my upper back. With the Theragun, I no longer have body tension and the very painful knots in the back are completely gone. Life-changing. So thankful for the creators of this product.”
Mebak Massager Gun Deep Tissue Percussion
Best lightweight massage gun for neck and shoulder pain
Buy from Amazon, $99.99 – Save $10 with coupon on Amazon!
Why we like it:
- Has customizable speed settings
- Lasts up to 3 hours
- Weighs 2.1 pounds
This lightweight massage therapy gun is a favorite on Amazon, with over 6,000 five-star reviews. And at just over $100, the price point on this little tool makes it a great pick for the budget-minded, or anyone who wants to try one of the best massage guns for neck and shoulder pain. With seven different heads, five different speeds, and whisper-quiet operation, this is sure to have you relaxing in comfort after you use it.
Happy customer: “This gun is amazing. I love the packaging that it comes with; it has nice little case that you can carry with you everywhere. The gun already comes with some charge, so you can use right away … the battery last for about three hours if you use continually. I only use few minutes throughout the day, so I don’t have to charge as often. This gun has seven different heads, five speeds, and and automatic shut-off timer button that you can use. Another great feature is the noise level. The gun is super quiet … [and] the price is great compared to other massage guns on the market.”
Hyperice Hypervolt Bluetooth-Percussion Massage Device
Best Hypervolt massage gun for neck and shoulder pain
Buy from Dick’s Sporting Goods, $199 (was $349)
Why we like it:
- Bluetooth connectivity pairs with an app to adjust speed automatically
- Four different head attachments and three speeds
- “Quiet Glide” technology makes it one of the quietest guns on the market
Ease neck and shoulder pain and avoid straining your muscles further by providing them with a deep-tissue massage, courtesy of the Hypervolt massage gun. Whether you have aches and pains or tight muscles, this cordless massager will aim to work out any knots and tightness. Connect to to the HyperSmart app, and it will change speeds automatically as you use it. The handheld design helps you easily reach specific zones including your lower back, arms, feet, and thighs, so you can use it alone as easily as with a partner. (Also available at Nordstrom.)
Happy customer: “We use this device on sore or stained muscles and find it effective. The various attachments allow you to get into the hard to reach areas with precision. Love our device! Recommend it.”
Vybe Percussion Massage Gun
Best Vybe massage therapy gun for neck and shoulder painsd
Buy from Amazon, $54.99 (was $69.99)
Why we like it:
- The one the pros use
- Two-year warranty
- Durable and powerful
A warning right off the bat: The Vybe Percussion Massage Gun is not the quietest massage gun you can buy. Multiple reviewers mention the sound, and some were looking for something quieter. However, many love their Vybe massage guns, no matter how noisy they are! This is a high-quality, powerful machine that will deliver real results. It comes with three interchangeable massage tips, operates at six graduated speeds, is cordless, and comes with a carrying case. And at less than $200, it’s one of the more affordable premium options out there. More than 2,200 five-star Amazon reviews speak to the quality and popularity of the Vybe massage gun, so put in your earplugs and let it melt your neck and shoulder tension away!
Happy customer: “Amazing results. The first time I used it there was serious soreness afterwards because there was so much tension that had been stored for so long! Now, while the massage of my calves and shins is still intense, there is no lingering soreness. … I’ve paid hundreds of dollars for a doctor to do to my shins essentially the same thing I am doing myself with Vybe. The only negative thing I’ve seen reported in these reviews is the sound. It’s not that loud, snowflakes! It’s about as loud as my blender. I pray Vybe stands the test of time because I use it at least once per day. Thank you, Vybe!”
Medcursor Handheld Percussion Massage Gun
Best affordable massage therapy gun for neck and shoulder pain
Buy from Amazon,$79.99 (was $169.99) – Save $10 with coupon on Amazon!
Why we like it:
- Comes in a convenient carrying case
- Long battery life
- Affordable
Receive a deep tissue massage from the comfort of your own home. This cordless rechargeable gun aims to provide you with a massage just as good as one you would receive from a massage therapist. With up to 12 hours of battery life (depending on the speed and vibration intensity you use), you’ll get plenty of relief without having to plug in — and at a price that’s a fraction of some top-of-the-line massage therapy guns.
Happy customer: “I carry my stress in my shoulders. I’ve previously been using massage therapy (gets expensive), copious amounts of ibuprofen (not good for extended bouts), and TENS therapy (limited results) to combat my pain. I took a chance and ordered this product … After less than five minutes [using it], I was feeling the sweet glory of relief. The pinching had abated in my shoulder and feeling was returning between my shoulder and elbow! I’m delighted to tell you that I haven’t taken ibuprofen today and I am completely pain free … This is the best money I have ever spent in my life. I don’t regret this purchase and I don’t believe you will either!”
Le6 Massage Gun for Athletes
Top-rated Amazon massage therapy gun for neck and shoulder pain
Buy from Amazon, $49.99 ($59.99)
Why we like it:
- Has 6 different massage heads and 20 speeds
- Comes with portable travel case
- LED display clearly shows speed and vibration levels
This top-rated massage gun has over 16,000 five-star reviews on Amazon! It helps relieve muscle tension with percussive therapy at 20 different speeds, and has six different heads you can swap out for use on different body parts. Designed with an LED display to adjust the speed and vibration levels, it also comes with a portable traveling case so you can take it on the go, or just stash it away when not in use.
Happy customer: “For my husband’s birthday I usually treat him to a massage. Well, in this time of Covid, we decided that maybe he’d give it a skip this year. I found this massager and bought it for him as a consolation, not knowing that I would enjoy it as well. It is amazing! After a long kayak trip my shoulders were so sore, but after a few minutes of putting it on my aches and pains, they were better.”
Naipo Mini Massage Gun
Best mini massage gun for neck and shoulder pain
Why we like it:
- Comes with a power saver mode
- Designed to be quiet
- Comes with 4 different speeds
This mini massage therapy gun packs a powerful punch! With four adjustable speeds, six different head attachments, and a price tag under $100, it’s got all the bells and whistles of higher end products. An affordable choice that weighs only one pound, it includes a USB charging cord that’s compatible with the same type C charger used for smartphones, so you’ll have everything you need right out of the box.
Happy customer: “This was a birthday gift from my husband of 40 years. I’ve told him it’s the best gift he’s given me! I thought I’d use it in my back and feet but I use it everywhere. It’s hard to reach the middle part of my back but I’m getting more flexible.”
The Manhattan Wellness Group Massage Gun
Best heated massage gun for neck and shoulder pain
Why we like it:
- Quiet
- LED display
- Adjustable heat
Applying heat to sore muscles is a great way to increase blood flow and speed up healing, so it makes sense to add heat to a massage therapy gun! This heat-infused pick from The Manhattan Wellness Group melts away soreness and with pressure and warmth, a comforting combination that makes your massage even better. The cordless design makes it easier to move from one muscle to the next, while its battery life can last up to 12 hours.
Happy customer: “This massage gun is terrific! the heat and cold feature is remarkable and really helps with sore muscles or strains. The different speeds and attachments are also great in getting you comfort with different areas of your muscles and body parts. There are a lot of massage guns on the market that one can choose from, and this one is certainly one I’d choose if I was an athlete, dancer, or someone who is very active and needs excellent recovery in a short period of time.”
